Rare coins sometimes turn up in unexpected locations like a backyard bin, a garage sale cigar box, or a jar of spare change. Collectors love these hidden gems, which may make millions. Three rare dimes and a Bicentennial quarter have attracted numismatists and made their finders rich.
The 1894-S Barber Dime: A Backyard Find
Only 24 1894-S Barber Dime exist, making it a rare coin. An ancient tin pail hidden in a California backyard yielded one of these dimes, adding to its mythology.
The Discovery
The family that found this dime was unaware of its value. When they took it to a coin specialist, they discovered a treasure. It was officially rated Mint State-64, making it one of the best specimens of this uncommon dime.
Value of Auction
The 1894-S Barber Dime sold for $10 million at auction, making it one of the most expensive dimes ever. This astonishing discovery tale reminds us that extraordinary riches may be found everywhere.
The 1916-D Mercury Dime: Garage Sale Treasure
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is also sought after with its restricted mintage and historical relevance. An old cigar box bought at a garage sale for a few dollars included this cent, which is equally fascinating.
The Discovery
After seeing this dime’s extraordinarily good condition, the cigar box’s new owner had it evaluated. Experts authenticated it as a rare 1916-D Mercury Dime. Collectors prized its excellent detail and brilliance as a top example.
Value of Auction
One of the most costly dimes ever, it cost over $15 million. This unusual find shows the thrill of numismatic discovery, when a diamond may be found in a box of odds and ends.
The 1976 No S Bicentennial Quarter: A Unique Error Coin
Millions of 1976 Bicentennial Quarters were coined to honor America’s 200th birthday, but a rare minting fault made a few incredibly valuable. Quarters from San Francisco usually have an “S” mint mark. However, this mistake coin was produced without it, making it unusual.
The Discovery
An elderly Florida couple found this unusual Bicentennial Quarter in their years-old jar of stray change. After getting it evaluated, they discovered one of the rarest quarters.
Value of Auction
The Mint State-66 quarter was worth $10 million. This coin’s rarity and unique fault make it a numismatic gem, illustrating that even spare change may contain riches.
Notable Rare Coin Finds
| Coin | Discovery Location | Grading | Auction Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1894-S Barber Dime | Backyard tin can | Mint State-64 | $10 million |
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | Cigar box at a garage sale | High Grade | $15 million |
| 1976 No S Bicentennial Quarter | Jar of loose change | Mint State-66 | $10 million |
Hidden Treasures in Common Places
These uncommon coins remind us that valuable things can be found in unexpected locations. Curious people with luck can find numismatic riches in backyards, garages, and loose change jars. Stories like this thrill collectors and make them look harder at their surroundings some of the world’s rarest coins may be lurking in plain sight.
FAQs
1. What makes the 1894-S Barber Dime valuable?
Collectors value its rarity (24 known instances) and exceptional condition. Its discovery narrative enhances its appeal.
2. How was 1916-D Mercury Dime found?
A cigar box from a garage sale included the 1916-D Mercury Dime, proving that rare treasures may be found in commonplace goods.
3. Why is the 1976 No S Bicentennial Quarter special?
An uncommon mistake coin, this quarter missing the “S” mint mark typical on San Francisco-minted coins.
4. The Barber Dime was found where?
A California backyard tin can contained an 1894-S Barber Dime.
5. Can stray change include precious coins?
Treasures may be found in commonplace settings, as rare coins like the No S Bicentennial Quarter have been found in loose change jars.
READ MORE: 3 Rare $170 Million Dimes and Bicentennial Quarters Remain in Circulation
