A seemingly ordinary dime hidden away in your piggy bank might be worth just 10 cents, but a particular vintage dime could soon sell for over $1 million at auction. This high-value dime, far exceeding the typical worth of its modern counterparts, is estimated at $1.5 million according to Stack’s Bowers.
The 1894-S Barber Dime
Minted in San Francisco over 130 years ago, the 1894-S Barber Dime is a rarity. These dimes are part of the Barber series, named after their designer, Charles E. Barber, and were first struck in the 1890s. While Barber dimes generally sell for hundreds, those from 1894, minted in San Francisco, are exceptionally rare and coveted.
Only nine known examples of this particular issue survive today. Historical records indicate that only 24 were originally minted, with three subjected to assay testing, leaving 21 in circulation. Twelve of these dimes remain unaccounted for, adding to their mystique and value.
Recent Auction Prices
Recent sales underscore the value of these dimes. A Barber dime fetched $2.16 million last year, based on data from Heritage Auction. Another sold for $1.998 million in 2016, while a 2020 sale saw another go for $1.5 million. Impressively, the same coin previously sold for $1.035 million in 2005.
Auction Details
The anticipated opening bid for this rare dime is $1 million, with bidding starting online at Stack’s Bowers website on September 1. Such high auction prices are rare; for instance, a dime from 1873 sold in 2023 for $3.6 million as it survived the Coinage Act of 1873 melting order.
Valuing Your Dimes
Determining a dime’s value can be challenging. Unique coins don’t automatically equate to rarity or high value, according to Dustin Johnson, vice president of numismatics at Heritage Auctions. When in doubt, a consultation with an expert can clarify whether a dime, coin, or collectible is worth more than its face value.