In the fascinating world of numismatics, error coins hold a special place, often commanding premium prices that far exceed their face value.

Among these, dime error coins are particularly intriguing, offering a blend of historical significance, rarity, and potential financial reward.

This comprehensive guide explores some of the most valuable dime error coins, their characteristics, and recent auction results, providing both novice collectors and seasoned numismatists with valuable insights into this captivating niche of coin collecting.

Understanding Coin Errors

Before delving into specific valuable dime errors, it’s essential to understand what constitutes a coin error. Coin errors occur during the minting process and can result from various factors, including:

1. Die errors

2. Planchet errors

3. Strike errors

4. Hub errors

These errors can manifest in numerous ways, from subtle variations in design to dramatic misshapen coins. The rarity and visibility of the error often determine its value in the collector’s market.

Top Valuable Dime Error Coins

1. 1894-S Barber Dime

While not technically an error coin, the 1894-S Barber Dime is worth mentioning due to its extreme rarity and value.

• Mintage: Only 24 were produced at the San Francisco Mint

• Known Specimens: A mere 9 are known to exist today

• Recent Sale: One specimen sold for an astounding $1.9 million in 2007

• Key Features: “S” mint mark on the reverse beneath the wreath

The 1894-S Barber Dime’s scarcity has led to numerous theories about its origin, adding to its mystique and value among collectors.

2. 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime

This modern rarity showcases how even recent coins can become highly valuable due to minting errors.

• Error Type: Missing “S” mint mark on proof coins

• Known Specimens: Only two examples are known to exist

• Recent Sale: One specimen sold for $506,250 in 2024

• Historical Context: Part of the 1975 proof set production

The extreme scarcity of this error, combined with its modern vintage, has made it one of the most sought-after dimes among contemporary coin collectors.

3. 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime

Another modern error that has captured collectors’ attention is the 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime.

• Error Type: Missing “P” mint mark

• Condition: A specimen graded NGC MS66 FT (Full Torch) was recently available

• Value: Priced at $545 or best offer

• Significance: One of the most famous modern mint errors

This error occurred during a year when the Philadelphia Mint was transitioning to adding “P” mint marks to coins, making it a historically significant piece.

4. 1916-D Mercury Dime

While not an error coin, the 1916-D Mercury Dime is highly sought after due to its low mintage and historical significance.

• Mintage: Only 264,000 pieces produced at the Denver facility

• Value Range: Well-preserved specimens regularly command prices exceeding $10,000, with pristine examples reaching beyond $200,000

• Key Identifier: The “D” mint mark is crucial for authentication

• Historical Significance: First year of the Mercury dime design

A particularly exceptional MS-67 Full Bands example sold for $207,000 at a recent auction, showcasing the potential value of high-grade specimens.

5. Broadstruck Dime Errors

Broadstruck errors occur when the collar that normally contains the planchet during striking fails to engage properly.

• Error Characteristics: Expanded, flatter appearance with a partial or missing rim

• Recent Example: A 2002-P Roosevelt Dime with a broadstruck error, graded ANACS MS-65, was recently available

• Value: This particular specimen was priced at $55

• Collectibility: Broadstruck errors are popular among error coin enthusiasts due to their dramatic appearance

The value of broadstruck errors can vary significantly based on the extent of the error and the coin’s overall condition.

6. Off-Center Strike Errors

Off-center strikes are always popular among error collectors, with more dramatic examples commanding higher premiums.

• Error Characteristics: Part of the design missing, with a blank crescent on part of the coin

• Value Range: Prices vary widely based on the degree of off-center strike, ranging from $50 for minor errors to $1,000 or more for dramatic examples

• Recent Example: A Roosevelt Dime with a 30-60% off-center strike was recently available for $39.95

• Collectibility: The more off-center the strike, generally the more valuable the coin becomes

Collectors particularly prize off-center strikes that still show the full date and mint mark.

7. Die Clash Errors

Die clash errors occur when the obverse and reverse dies strike each other without a planchet between them, leaving an impression of the opposite side’s design.

• Error Characteristics: Faint impressions of the opposite side’s design visible on the coin

• Recent Example: A 2017-D MS63 Roosevelt Dime with a die clash error on the obverse sold for $120 at a 2019 auction

• Collectibility: The more visible the clashed design, the more valuable the coin tends to be

• Identification: Can be subtle, often requiring magnification to detect

Die clash errors provide an interesting insight into the minting process and are prized by error coin specialists.

8. Cud Errors

Cud errors result from a piece of the die breaking off, leaving a raised, undefined area on the coin.

• Error Characteristics: Raised bump or blob along the rim or within the design

• Recent Example: A 2017-P Roosevelt Dime with a rim cud error, graded MS65, sold for $125 at an online auction in 2021

• Value Factors: Size and location of the cud, overall coin condition

• Collectibility: Larger, more prominent cuds are generally more desirable to collectors

Cud errors can occur on any part of the coin and can range from small, barely noticeable bumps to large, dramatic protrusions.

9. Wrong Planchet Errors

These fascinating errors occur when a coin is struck on a planchet intended for a different denomination.

• Error Types: Dime struck on cent planchet, nickel planchet, etc.

• Value Range: Can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the combination and condition

• Recent Example: A 2001 Dime potentially struck on a penny planchet was recently available for auction

• Collectibility: Highly sought after due to their dramatic appearance and rarity

Wrong planchet errors often result in coins with partial designs and unusual coloration due to the different metal composition.

10. Doubled Die Errors

Doubled die errors occur during the hub and die creation process, resulting in a doubling of design elements.

• Error Characteristics: Visible doubling of lettering, numbers, or design elements

• Value Range: Can range from modest premiums for minor doubling to significant sums for major, prominent doubling

• Collectibility: Major doubled die errors are among the most popular and valuable error types

• Famous Example: While not a dime, the 1955 Doubled Die Obverse cent showcases the potential value of this error type

Doubled die errors on dimes are generally less dramatic than on larger denominations but can still command significant premiums if prominent.

Factors Influencing Error Coin Values

Several key factors determine the value of dime error coins:

1. Rarity: The scarcity of a particular error type significantly impacts its value.

2. Error Magnitude: Generally, the more dramatic or visible the error, the higher the value.

3. Condition: As with all collectible coins, the state of preservation is crucial. Higher grades command premium prices.

4. Historical Significance: Errors associated with important dates or transitions in minting processes often carry additional value.

5. Demand: Collector interest and current market trends can influence prices.

Tips for Collectors

If you’re looking to add some of these valuable dime error coins to your collection, keep these tips in mind:

1. Education is Key: Familiarize yourself with the identifying characteristics of various error types and common counterfeits.

2. Use Magnification: Many errors are subtle and require careful examination under magnification.

3. Buy from Reputable Sources: For high-value pieces, consider purchasing only those certified by reputable grading services like PCGS or NGC.

4. Stay Informed: Keep up with market trends and price guides to make informed purchasing decisions.

5. Be Patient: Building a collection of valuable error coins takes time and persistence. Don’t rush into purchases without proper research.

Valuable Dime Error Coins

The world of valuable dime error coins offers a fascinating intersection of history, artistry, and the occasional happy accident in the minting process.

From the legendary 1894-S Barber Dime to more recent rarities like the 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime, these coins tell stories of American craftsmanship and the evolving technology of coin production.

For collectors, the hunt for these elusive errors can be as rewarding as the financial gains they may bring. Each error coin represents a unique piece of numismatic history, a tangible connection to the minting process, and a testament to the enduring appeal of coin collecting.

As you embark on your journey into the world of dime error coins, remember that knowledge is your most valuable tool. Stay curious, keep learning, and who knows? The next valuable error coin might be waiting in your pocket change, ready to be discovered by your educated eye.

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