Can you imagine your pocket producing a coin worth millions? Crazy, isn’t it? But that’s how the world is, lucky collectors. For them, some coins are worth millions. Among them are the 1969-S Dime, the 1970-S Dime, and the Bicentennial Quarter, with prices ranging as high as $19 million.
Due to some minting mistakes, historical importance, and high rarity, these coins have attained legendary rank in the collectors’ world. If you’re one of those enthusiasts or are curious to know what makes them so expensive, then dive into this guide to learn why these rare dimes and quarters are considered hidden treasures.
| Coin Name | Year | Mint Location | Estimated Value | Distinctive Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 | Various | Up to $19M | Drummer boy design, minting errors |
| 1969-S Dime | 1969 | San Francisco | Up to $19M | Double-die errors, rare production |
| 1970-S Dime | 1970 | San Francisco | Up to $19M | Limited release, mysterious origin |
Bicentennial Quarter:
Because of the 200th anniversary for America, the quarter was released in 1976. Unlike the usual quarters, this coin has a drummer boy in the reverse and Independence Hall on the obverse, which makes it probably one of the most symbolic designs in U.S. coinage.
What Makes It Precious?
Even though most are pretty standard Bicentennial Quarters, because of some minting errors such as:
- Omitted mint marks
- Double strikes
- Off-center designs
A few varieties of this quarter were sold by auctions for as high as $19 million, thus proving that coins used in transactions can also be collector’s treasures.
1969-S Dime:
Minted in San Francisco, this 1969-S Dime is deemed to be one of the rarest dimes produced. It caught the attention of coin collectors with the double-die error-a very unusual mistake in which features of a design appear duplicated on the coin.
Why so uncommon?
- Double-die obverse error – Design appears very, very slightly doubled and so it is regarded as unique.
- Limited numbers – There are only few of these coins known to exist.
- Extremely valuable – Near best condition 1969-S Dime might be sold for about $19 million.
In fact, this dime has most recently been discovered in circulation, proving that such valuable coins can sometimes appear among the commonest things.
1970-S Dime
Few coins contain as much intrigue as the 1970-S Dime. Some specialists have speculated that this coin was never officially released, which could add an air of mystery concerning the coin’s origins.
What’s Unusual About It?
- There was an extremely limited mintage; only a handful are said to have escaped into circulation.
- Uncertain provenance; some numismatists believe these coins came from an experimental run.
- A very high price; this dime has an estimate of $19 million due to its rarity.
To collectors, the 1970-S Dime stands as a relic of unsolved history. The charm of this coin and its extreme rarity put it among one of the most sought-after coins in the universe.
Conclusion
Discovering one such coin can turn one’s life upside down. For example, chances of stumbling upon a 1969-S Dime, or a 1970-S Dime, or even a rare Bicentennial Quarter may be negligible, but they do exist. Checking through spare change, old collections of coins, and even estate sales can uncover a hidden treasure.
You may think you have found one of these rare dimes or quarters; perhaps it should be taken into a professional appraiser and graded for the true value. Who knows? You just might find yourself holding in the palm of your hand a treasure worth $19 million.
FAQS:
What is the rarest Bicentennial Quarter?
The rarest types include those with minting anomalies, such as a missing mint or double strike, and these can fetch prices nearing $19 million.
How can I tell if I have a 1969-S Double Die Dime?
Look for obverse design that features duplicated characteristics, particularly in lettering and numbering.
What makes the 1970-S Dime so rare?
Its very limited issue and mysterious origins make it one of the rarest U.S. dimes.
Will I still find any of these rare coins in circulation?
Rare coins in circulation have, at one time or another, been picked up in some rare instances in day-to-day transactions or brought in from old collections.
Where should I go to get my coin appraised?
For authentication, have your coin examined by a coin grading service such as PCGS or NGC.