Collecting coins is an exciting hobby, and sometimes, incredible treasures can be found in the most unexpected places. From forgotten junk drawers to old piggy banks, rare coins with fascinating histories have surfaced, capturing the imagination of collectors and casual enthusiasts alike. Here are three extraordinary finds, together valued at $35 million.
1894-S Barber Dime
The 1894-S Barber Dime is perhaps the rarest and most valuable coin known. Only 24 were ever produced, but just nine are thought to be alive today. It is such an enigmatic piece that one has heard stories it was created as a one-time special offering to dignitaries.
One of them was found in a flea market inside an old fruit jar purchased in a box with mixed contents. The buyer’s astonishment mounted when the coin was in mint condition and sold for $2 million at auction.
A second serendipitous finding took place when a family cleaning out a garage junk drawer pulled out a Barber Dime 1894-S. An interested child uncovered the coin, displayed it for someone else, who was perceptive enough to note its intrinsic worth. The coin would eventually reveal its significance following proper assessment, revealing this to be one of the most uncommon coins worldwide.
1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime
No mint mark Roosevelt dime, 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime is a relatively rare coin because it was mislabeled; it was missing its “S” mint mark intended for coins struck at the San Francisco Mint and has become an extremely coveted numismatic prize.
Among them is the No-S Roosevelt Dime. Coin collector bought a roll of dimes from a bank and found a No-S on this dime that hadn’t had the mint mark and was one of the fewest struck, or No-S for no mint mark on it. One was sold in an auction for $456,000.
In 2019, a man in California found another example among loose change from the change at a corner store. Noticing its odd look, he had it graded, confirming its status as one of only two known specimens of the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime. This serendipitous discovery was worth more than $450,000.
1976 Bicentennial Quarter
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter was minted to celebrate America’s 200th anniversary. Millions were produced, but some were minted with special features, including a silver composition or double-die errors, that made them extremely valuable.
This rare silver quarter was found by a child who actually started rummaging around an old piggy bank. This shiniest coin was later appraised and valued at around $7,000.
Another example is when a retired teacher in New York found a double-die Bicentennial Quarter in cleaning an old desk inherited from her late husband. The rare error coin was appraised at over $500,000. That is one astonishing find.
Hidden Treasures
These stories indicate that rare and precious coins are found in places one least expects to find them. From flea markets to family heirlooms, these finds remind us that treasures can be closer than we imagine. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious enthusiast, these tales inspire you to look twice at the coins you encounter.
FAQs:
Why is the 1894-S Barber Dime so valuable?
Only 24 were produced, and nine are reportedly still in existence.
What sets the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime so rare?
Due to a manufacturing error, the coin does not have the mint mark ‘S.’
How is a silver Bicentennial Quarter discovered?
It was found inside a child’s old piggy bank.