How to Find Rare Dimes and Quarters Worth Millions
Most coins in circulation are common and worth face value. A few dimes and quarters, however, can be extremely valuable to collectors and can sell for six or seven figures.
This guide explains which dates and mint marks to check, common valuable errors, and practical steps to verify and sell a rare coin.
What to look for first: dates and mint marks
Start by looking at the date and the mint mark on the coin. These are the most important clues for rarity.
For dimes, the famous 1894-S Barber dime and early Draped Bust or Capped Bust dimes are key targets. For quarters, very early Draped Bust and rare 18th- and 19th-century issues can be worth a lot.
Key dates and mint marks to check
- 1894-S Barber Dime — one of the rarest dimes; any authentic specimen draws intense collector interest.
- Early Draped Bust and Capped Bust dimes — late 1700s to early 1800s pieces are scarce in high grade.
- 1796 and other early Draped Bust quarters — extremely rare and often command high prices at auction.
- 1932-D and 1932-S Washington quarters — scarce in high grades compared with common years.
Errors and varieties that add value
Beyond date and mint, mint errors and die varieties can increase value dramatically. Look for doubling, off-center strikes, broadstrikes, clipped planchets, and repunched mint marks.
Some doubled dies and prominent mint errors have produced auction prices far above face value.
How to inspect coins safely
Handle coins by the edges and use a loupe (10x) to inspect details. Do not clean the coin, as cleaning can destroy collector value.
Check these items when inspecting a potential rarity:
- Date: Is it readable and consistent with the design style?
- Mint mark: Look for small letters like S, D, CC; check for repunching.
- Wear and surface: Heavy wear lowers value, while original surfaces in high grade raise it.
- Errors: Doubling, off-center, clipped planchet, and filled die marks.
Tools and tests you can do at home
Use a magnifying loupe and a soft cloth. A small digital scale and calipers can help check weight and diameter against known specs.
Compare the coin to images in reputable guides or online databases like PCGS and NGC to spot obvious mismatches.
Very few examples of some coin issues exist. A small handful of certain dimes and quarters can be worth more than a house when they appear at auction.
What to do if you find a possible rare dime or quarter
If you believe you have a rare coin, stop handling and avoid cleaning it. Document the coin with clear photos from both sides and the edge.
Next steps should include authentication and professional grading by a respected service such as PCGS or NGC.
Authentication and grading
Professional grading confirms authenticity, assigns a grade, and encapsulates the coin. This process often increases buyer confidence and can raise selling prices.
Expect grading fees and shipping insurance costs. For very rare items, consider sending coins via a dealer or auction house that assists with submissions.
Selling options
- Auction houses — good for high-value or extremely rare items; auction results are public and can set market value.
- Reputable dealers — useful for faster sales; verify credentials and references.
- Online marketplaces — allow wide exposure but demand strong documentation and secure shipping.
Case study: A rare dime found in pocket change
A collector once found a rare Barber dime while sorting pocket change. The date and mint mark looked unusual, so the finder took photos and sought expert advice.
Experts authenticated the piece and its rarity was confirmed. After professional grading and an auction listing, the coin sold for a seven-figure amount. The whole process took months and required professional help.
Practical tips for everyday checking
Make it a habit to glance at coins when you get change. Look for odd dates, small mint marks, and anything that looks like doubling or off-center strikes.
Keep a small loupe and a reference guide or bookmarked reputable websites to check suspicious finds quickly.
Quick checklist
- Inspect date and mint mark closely.
- Do not clean the coin.
- Take clear photos (obverse, reverse, edge).
- Consult online databases or a local dealer for a first opinion.
- Consider professional grading for confirmed rarities.
Resources and next steps
Rely on major grading services and established auction houses for authentication and sale. Use online price guides for ballpark values, but remember final value depends on grade and market demand.
Checking your change is quick and may be rewarding. If you find something unusual, document it and get expert help before making decisions.
Final note: Most coins are common, but a careful eye and the right steps can turn a routine coin into a major discovery. Check your dimes and quarters — you might be surprised.