10 Rare and Valuable Dime Error Coins: Rare and Valuable DIMES are among the most exciting discoveries for coin enthusiasts and casual collectors alike. While these small, ten-cent pieces are often overlooked, certain errors during their minting process have turned them into sought-after treasures. From missing mint marks to accidental planchet swaps, these unique mistakes have significantly increased the value of specific dimes.
This article explores ten of the most rare and valuable DIMES that have captured the fascination of collectors. Whether you’re hunting through your spare change or browsing coin auctions, these error coins are worth keeping an eye out for.
Overview of Rare and Valuable Dimes
| Dime | Key Error or Feature | Approximate Value |
| 1996-W Dime | “W” mint mark for 50th anniversary | $10–$45 |
| 1982 No-Mintmark Dime | Missing “P” mint mark | Up to $2,185 (MS65 condition) |
| 1965 Transitional Silver Dime | Struck on leftover silver planchets | Thousands of dollars |
| 1969-D Repunched Mint Mark | Double-struck “D” mint mark | $100–$1,500 |
| 1968-S No-Mintmark Proof Dime | Missing “S” mint mark (Proof coin) | Up to $40,250 |
| 1964-D Proof Dime | Last 90% silver proof issue | $525–$4,600 |
| 1999-D Broad Struck on Cent Planchet | Struck on a cent planchet | Up to $10,000 |
| 1998-P Bonded Cluster Error | Coins fused due to mint press error | $9,200 |
| 1969-D Missing Clad Layer | Missing outer layer, showing copper | $50–$100 |
| 1970-S No-Mintmark Proof Dime | Missing “S” mint mark (Proof coin) | Up to $1,610 |
1. 1996-W Dime
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Roosevelt dime, the U.S. Mint produced a special coin in 1996 with the “W” mint mark from the West Point Mint. These dimes were included only in special Mint Sets, but a few have surfaced in circulation, making them a fun discovery for collectors.
Value: Depending on condition, these dimes are worth $10–$45, with pristine examples fetching higher prices.
2. 1982 No-Mintmark Dime
A mistake at the Philadelphia Mint in 1982 resulted in dimes being struck without the “P” mint mark. This rare error occurred only once, and about 75,000 of these coins are thought to exist today. The absence of a mint mark significantly increases the coin’s desirability.
Value: A well-preserved example graded MS65 can sell for up to $2,185.
3. 1965 Transitional Silver Dime
When the U.S. Mint transitioned from silver to copper-nickel dimes in 1965, a small number of coins were mistakenly struck on leftover 90% silver planchets. These transitional silver dimes are among the rarest error coins and are highly prized by collectors.
Value: Depending on its condition, a 1965 silver dime can fetch thousands of dollars at auction.
4. 1969-D Repunched Mint Mark
This dime is an exciting example of a double-strike error. The Denver Mint accidentally struck the “D” mint mark twice on some coins in 1969, creating a repunched appearance. This error also affects parts of the inscription “IN GOD WE TRUST,” adding to the coin’s rarity.
Value: These coins are valued between $100 and $1,500, with the price depending on their condition and clarity of the doubling.
5. 1968-S No-Mintmark Proof Dime
Proof coins are typically flawless, and their mint marks help identify where they were struck. In 1968, however, a small number of proof dimes minted in San Francisco were released without the “S” mint mark. Only a few dozen examples exist, making this error coin incredibly rare.
Value: One such coin, graded PF67, sold for an astonishing $40,250 at auction.
6. 1964-D Proof Dime
The 1964-D proof dime is special because it marks the end of an era—the last proof dime made of 90% silver. While proof coins are not intended for circulation, a few of these coins made their way out of the mint, sparking excitement among collectors.
Value: Standard proof coins sell for $525, while higher-quality deep cameo examples are valued at up to $4,600.
7. 1999-D Broad Struck on Cent Planchet
This bizarre minting error occurred when the design for a dime was accidentally struck onto a copper cent planchet. The resulting coin is slightly larger, misshapen, and displays a unique coloration due to its copper composition.
Value: A high-grade example sold for $10,000, making this a coin worth seeking out.
8. 1998-P Bonded Cluster Error
This coin represents a rare malfunction in the minting process, where approximately 32 dimes fused together during striking. The result is a unique bonded cluster error, making it one of the rarest dime errors ever discovered.
Value: The single known example sold for $9,200.
9. 1969-D Missing Clad Layer
Modern dimes are made from a copper core layered with nickel-copper alloy. In some cases, one of these layers is missing, exposing the copper core on one side. This striking error is most commonly seen in 1969-D dimes.
Value: These coins typically sell for $50–$100, depending on their condition.
10. 1970-S No-Mintmark Proof Dime
A repeat of the 1968-S error occurred in 1970, when some San Francisco proof dimes were released without the “S” mint mark. With fewer than 500 examples known, these coins remain highly sought after by collectors.
Value: One such coin, graded PF69, sold for $1,610 in 2003.
FAQs About Rare and Valuable DIMES
1. What makes a dime valuable?
Dimes with minting errors, such as missing mint marks or double strikes, are considered highly valuable. Transitional errors, like the use of silver planchets in 1965, also increase a coin’s worth.
2. How do I identify a valuable dime?
Inspect the coin for unique features such as missing mint marks, irregular designs, or unusual materials. A professional appraisal can confirm its value.
3. Where can I sell rare dimes?
Rare coins can be sold at coin auctions, through online platforms, or by consulting professional numismatists for the best price.
4. Are error coins always worth money?
Not all errors add significant value, but coins with prominent and rare mistakes are typically worth much more than their face value.
5. What is the rarest Roosevelt dime?
The 1968-S No-Mintmark Proof Dime is among the rarest, with fewer than 50 examples known to exist.
Final Thoughts
The world of rare and valuable DIMES offers a captivating look into the unpredictable nature of minting errors. These small coins, often underestimated, can turn into high-value treasures thanks to unique mistakes during production. Whether you’re searching for a new addition to your collection or hoping to strike it rich with an old coin, these rare dimes are worth exploring.
Have you ever stumbled upon a valuable dime? Share your story in the comments, and don’t forget to check out our other articles for more coin-collecting tips and discoveries!
