Imagine finding a single dime or quarter worth more than a mansion. That’s exactly what’s happening with a handful of rare error dimes and 1976 Bicentennial quarters still floating around in circulation.
The Crazy History Behind Them
Most of these treasures were born from minting mistakes in the 1960s–1980s. The U.S. Mint accidentally struck coins on wrong planchets, left out clad layers, or doubled dies – tiny errors that turned ordinary change into million-dollar rarities.
Why Are They Worth So Much Today?
Demand from collectors has exploded. With only 1–10 known examples of some errors, prices have skyrocketed at auctions. One famous 1975 “No-S” dime sold for $516,000… and values keep climbing!
The 8 Rare Dimes & Bicentennial Quarters You Need to Know
- 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime – Only 2 known → $500,000+
- 1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime → $400,000+
- 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime → $150,000+
- 1976 Bicentennial Quarter Double Die Obverse (strong doubling) → $15,000–$75,000
- 1976-D Bicentennial Quarter Struck on Dime Planchet → $25,000+
- 1970-S Proof Dime Struck on Quarter Planchet → Extremely rare
- 1996-W Roosevelt Dime (West Point mint, included in 1996 Mint Set) → $2,000–$15,000 in MS68+
- 1976 Bicentennial Quarter Missing Clad Layer (copper-nickel showing silver color) → $5,000–$20,000
Quick Value Comparison Table
| Coin | Year | Known Examples | Recent Sale Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1975 No-S Proof Dime | 1975 | 2 | $516,000 |
| 1968 No-S Proof Dime | 1968 | ~10 | $400,000+ |
| 1982 No Mintmark (No-P) Dime | 1982 | Hundreds | $50–$15,000 (grade) |
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter on Dime Planchet | 1976 | <10 | $25,000+ |
| 1976 Bicentennial Double Die Quarter | 1976 | Few dozen | Up to $75,000 |
How to Spot Them in Your Change
- Grab a magnifying glass (10x is perfect)
- Look for missing mintmarks (especially “S” under Roosevelt’s neck)
- Check 1976 quarters for dramatic doubling on “LIBERTY” or drummer
- Feel for weird weight – some error quarters weigh like dimes!
Mind-Blowing Auction Records Table
| Coin | Auction House | Year Sold | Price Realized |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1975 No-S Dime (PR68) | Heritage | 2019 | $516,000 |
| 1968 No-S Dime | Stack’s Bowers | 2021 | $456,000 |
| 1976 Quarter on Dime Planchet | GreatCollections | 2023 | $28,800 |
Expert Tips to Start Hunting Today
- Sort every dime from 1965–present and every 1976 quarter
- Never clean coins – it destroys value
- Use the free PCGS CoinFacts or NGC Coin Explorer apps
- Join Facebook groups like “Coin Roll Hunting” and “Error Coin Hunters”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are Bicentennial quarters from circulation really worth big money?
A: Most are worth 25¢, but dramatic errors can reach five figures.
Q: Where is the mintmark on a Roosevelt dime?
A: Right of the neck, just above the date.
Q: Should I get my coins graded?
A: Yes! Only PCGS or NGC slabs bring top dollar.
Final Thoughts – Your Million-Dollar Coin Could Be Closer Than You Think
That jar of old change on your dresser? It might hold the rare dime or Bicentennial quarter you’ve dreamed about. Thousands of people have already cashed in six-figure checks from pocket change. Grab your loupe, start looking tonight – and let us know in the comments if you find anything wild! Happy hunting, friends – your fortune might literally be sitting in the couch cushions right now.