5 Dimes and Bicentennial Coins : Every day, Americans handle coins without giving them a second thought. But what if some of that loose change jingling in your pocket could be worth a fortune? It might sound like a myth, but some rare dimes and Bicentennial coins have sold for staggering amounts — and a few could still be hiding in plain sight. In fact, five such coins are rumored to be worth a combined $455 million!
Here’s a breakdown of 5 ultra-rare dimes and Bicentennial coins you should be looking out for:
1. 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime — Worth Up to $500,000
Why It’s Valuable:
In 1975, a small number of proof dimes were mistakenly struck without the “S” mintmark (for San Francisco). Only two confirmed examples are known to exist. They were never intended for circulation, but a third could be hiding somewhere.
What to Look For:
- Date: 1975
- No mintmark on the obverse (front)
- Mirror-like proof surface
2. 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime — Worth Up to $450,000
Why It’s Valuable:
Another rare no-mintmark error from San Francisco, the 1968 No-S Proof Dime is one of the most coveted modern coins. It was mistakenly struck and released without a mintmark.
What to Look For:
- Date: 1968
- No “S” mintmark
- Sharp, mirror-proof surfaces
3. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Silver Composition Error) — Worth $2 Million+
Why It’s Valuable:
The Bicentennial quarter (dated 1776–1976) was issued in both clad and 40% silver versions, but only certain collector sets were meant to include silver. A few Denver-minted quarters were struck on silver planchets by mistake, making them extraordinarily rare.
What to Look For:
- “D” mintmark
- Heavier weight (about 5.75g)
- Ring test gives a higher-pitched tone
4. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Double Die Obverse) — Worth $2.1 Million
Why It’s Valuable:
A double die obverse error causes noticeable doubling of the date and lettering on the coin’s front. These rare variants are worth a small fortune, especially if they’re in high-grade condition.
What to Look For:
- Doubling in “LIBERTY” or “IN GOD WE TRUST”
- Clear strike and mint luster
5. 1894-S Barber Dime — Worth Over $450 Million (Combined Value)
Why It’s Valuable:
The 1894-S Barber Dime is considered the holy grail of U.S. dimes. Only 24 were minted, and just 9 to 12 are known to survive today. One sold for nearly $2 million, and collectors believe others are still unaccounted for — possibly lost or unknowingly spent.
What to Look For:
- Date: 1894
- Mintmark: “S” below the wreath on the reverse
- Extremely fine detail and silver luster
How Could $455 Million Be “Hiding” in Change?
The total estimated value of known and unaccounted-for versions of these five coins exceeds $455 million. Some are missing from records, others are believed to be in private collections, and a few could be buried in old drawers, jars, or even still circulating unknowingly through banks and registers.
Tips to Spot Rare Coins in Your Pocket:
Check Mintmarks – Especially on 1975 and 1968 dimes
Look for Errors – Doubling, off-center strikes, and odd weights
Weigh Your Coins – Silver dimes and quarters are heavier than modern clad coins
Get a Loupe – A magnifying glass makes spotting errors easier
Use Trusted Resources – Reference guides, PCGS, or NGC for authentication
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs..)
Q1: Are there really coins worth millions still in circulation?
A: Yes, while rare, coins worth hundreds of thousands — even millions — have occasionally been found in circulation, coin jars, or old collections. Some ultra-rare coins were mistakenly released or lost track of over the years.
Q2: Which coins should I look for in my change?
A: Key coins to watch for include:
- 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime
- 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime
- 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Silver error or double die)
- 1894-S Barber Dime
Each has unique features, like missing mintmarks, silver composition, or doubling errors that make them extremely valuable.
Q3: How can I tell if I have a silver Bicentennial quarter?
A: Silver Bicentennial quarters weigh more (about 5.75 grams) and produce a higher-pitched ring when tapped. Look for a slight color difference — silver coins have no copper edge and appear brighter or whiter compared to standard clad coins.
Final Thoughts
You may not think twice about tossing coins in a jar or dropping them in a vending machine, but those small pieces of change could be worth millions. Whether you’re a serious collector or just curious, it might be time to revisit your coin jar — there’s a slim but exciting chance that one of the rarest and most valuable coins in U.S. history is already in your hands.
Start looking closely… your pocket change might just make you a millionaire!
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