It was just an ordinary day when a man in Ohio decided to cash in the change piling up in a dusty old coin jar. What he didn’t expect was to discover a dime that would stun collectors — and eventually sell for $75,000 at auction. This wasn’t some ancient Roman coin or a gold doubloon; it was a simple-looking U.S. dime with a hidden story that changed everything.
Here’s how this incredible find happened — and three other rare dimes you should keep an eye out for in your own change.
1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime (Proof)
The coin discovered in the jar turned out to be a 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime, a rare proof coin mistakenly struck at the San Francisco Mint without its identifying “S” mintmark. These dimes were part of special proof sets and not meant to enter general circulation. Only a handful of these errors are known to exist, and when one surfaces, the coin collecting world takes notice. The example found in Ohio was in excellent condition, making it even more desirable. What was originally worth ten cents sold for $75,000 after authentication and grading.
1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime (Proof)
Another incredibly valuable coin to look out for is the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime. This dime is so rare that only two verified examples have ever been found. Like the 1968 version, this coin lacks the “S” mintmark, which was supposed to be present on all proof coins from that mint. One of these coins sold for $456,000 in a private sale. If you happen to own any 1975 proof sets, it might be time to take a closer look.
1895-O Barber Dime
Going further back in history, the 1895-O Barber Dime is a treasure from the New Orleans Mint. Only about 440,000 were minted, and far fewer survive in good condition today. One of these coins in uncirculated condition can be worth upwards of $85,000. It’s a reminder that sometimes the oldest coins in your jar are the most valuable, especially if they’re well-preserved and from a low-mintage year.
What started as a simple cleanup project led to an unforgettable discovery and a life-changing payday. Rare coins can appear anywhere — in a change jar, a drawer, or even pocket change. The world of coin collecting is full of surprises, and sometimes, the rarest finds come from the most ordinary places. If this story teaches us anything, it’s this: always double-check your change before you cash it in.
FAQ’s:
1. How can I tell if my dime is valuable?
Check for unusual dates, mintmarks (or missing ones), and signs of errors. Coins in excellent condition or from low-mintage years can be very valuable.
2. What does “No-S” mean on a coin?
It means the coin was struck without the “S” mintmark, which should be present on proof coins from the San Francisco Mint. Missing this mark can make it extremely rare.
3. Can I find rare coins in circulation today?
Yes, though it’s rare. Coins like the 1968 No-S dime have shown up in jars, rolls, and change from stores.
4. What should I do if I think I found a rare coin?
Avoid cleaning it. Get it appraised by a professional or certified by grading services like PCGS or NGC.
5. Are old coins always more valuable?
Not necessarily. While older coins can be valuable, modern error coins — like the 1975 No-S dime — can be worth even more due to rarity.
