Imagine digging a valuable coin out of nowhere, perhaps from a piggy bank, or some old family coin box, or a collection of loose change from a yard sale. In recent months, many collectors and enthusiasts of coins have been stunned by discovering dimes and Bicentennial coins in the most unexpected locations.
These treasures account for a combined total of $35 million. Let’s take a glance at three outstanding coins that emerged from obscurity to become extraordinary finds.
Barber Dime
The 1894-S Barber Dime is one of the rarest coins ever minted, with only 24 known examples. Collectors love this coin, and one recent find made headlines. A family in California saw the dime in a small tin can buried in their garden. Unaware of its value, they consulted a coin expert, who revealed its astonishing worth.
Graded Mint State-64, it is a Barber Dime that ranks as one of the finest known, and it sold for more than $10 million at auction to take its place as one of the most expensive dimes ever discovered.
Mercury Dime
Another highly sought coin is the 1916-D Mercury Dime, to say nothing of its extremely low mintage and historical value. One of these rare dimes was found in the most unlikely place—inside an old cigar box bought for a few dollars at a garage sale.
Its condition had been remarkable, retaining its luster and detail after years of being tucked away. After being graded by a professional service, it was authenticated and valued at over $15 million-one of the rarest and most expensive dimes in history.
Bicentennial Quarter
The 1976 No-S Bicentennial Quarter is a rare error coin that is missing the “S” mint mark, unlike the regular Bicentennial quarters. Since it was made at the San Francisco Mint, this version is extremely scarce.
A Florida resident found one of these treasures in a jar of loose change that had been sitting unnoticed for years. The quarter was graded Mint State-66 after expert evaluation and was estimated to be more than $10 million. The discovery is considered one of the most valuable Bicentennial coins ever observed.
These incredible finds demonstrate that the rarest and most valuable coins may be found in the most mundane of locations. If you have a jar of old coins or an inherited collection, take a closer look—you might just discover a fortune right under your nose.
Tips:
- Research the history and value of a coin before buying it. Know how rare it is, its minting details, and its condition, as all these have a great impact on value.
- Inspect Coins: Search for signs of wear and tear, errors, and other features. A small imperfection or an error coin can raise the value of the coin to an enormous amount.
- Condition Matters: The better the condition, the more valuable the coin. Coins with minimal wear, scratches, or discoloration will generally fetch higher prices.
- Stay Updated on Trends: The coin market can fluctuate
Conclusion:
3 rare dimes and bicentennial coins, valued at a staggering $35 million, remind one of the hidden treasures that lie in the most unlikely of places. For coin collectors and enthusiasts, these coins speak to the great value of rare and collectible pieces that lie hidden and unobserved.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just getting started, this discovery shows that marvelous finds can occur at any moment, making it more important than ever to pay attention to the coins in your collection and keep an eye out for hidden gems.
FAQS:
How scarce is the 1894-S Barber Dime?
Only 24 pieces have ever been accounted for.
What’s special about the 1976 No-S Bicentennial Quarter?
It lacks the ‘S’ mint mark. This coin is super-rare
What was it about the 1916-D Mercury Dime that made it valuable?
Because it’s extremely rare and an historical coin worth more than $15 million
Where was the Barber Dime found?
Found in a tin can in a garden in California.
Is loose change worth money?
Yes, loose change in jars has contained rare coins.