All of your old silver dimes are valuable. Every year from 1964 going back to 1796 when US dimes were first minted, each coin contained silver, now worth $1. And the mints struck millions of ounces of silver into dimes. Many a box of old coins is likely to have a fair share of these dimes.
Finding the Rare Dimes
Checking date and mintmark combinations is the start in your search for these little treasures. Each date and also those coins produced at the different mints, indicated by the mintmark, is valued separately. Over time collectors have recognized certain years survive in very small numbers. And at the top...
In the ultra rare status are 8 listed below, standing out as having auction values above $1,000.
- 1796 First year of US Dimes $2,400
- 1797 $4,300
- 1802 Seldom seen at auction $2,200
- 1804 Very rare $2,500
- 1822 $1,400
- 1871-CC Rare Carson City Mint, auction value $2,900
- 1873-CC $1,900
- 1874-CC very rare with values over $7,500
It is fun to think you may discover one of these, but... with the high prices they must be very rare. However, close behind in value, worth $500 or more the list grows adding another 12 dates and mints.
1798 | 1800 | 1801 | 1803 | 1805 | 1807 | 1867 | 1872-CC | 1885-S | 1916-D
1942/41 and 1942/41-D
Of note: The values given above are coins showing extensive wear, the major design is just a faded outline of the original. It is still an elite group of coins and even when heavily worn avidly sought. Finding one is rare but many more dates because of their condition are valuable and it is possible to add these to the list.
Old Dimes in Valuable Condition
Take a critical look at your old dimes, are many extensively worn and have a tired appearance? Collectors building dime collections are willing to pay higher prices as they encounter higher "grade" pieces. Now choose from your box the examples that suggest "oh, that is a nice coin" as these have potential.
It is not necessarily a date and mintmark combination raising your old dimes to the scarce and valuable level, often it is condition, or "grade" as collectors call it. The ones with ample detail showing in the design, well defined lettering separated from the rim and an overall sharp, crisp appearance are avidly sought. Such a coin would grade in "Fine" condition.
Taking into account the condition of your coins, the list expands by 75 more dates and mintmarks to cover the different entries worth $50 or higher in the collectible "Fine" condition as just described.
Worth the Search
It does take determination and research to place a current value on your old dimes. Listing your coins, checking dates and mintmarks, and what is often the hardest, judging condition. It is however, worth the search.
- Every US dime dated 1964 and before is worth $1
- In "Fine" condition 95 different date and mintmark combinations are valued higher than $50.
- Of these 12 have a value above $500.
- And 8 form the elite group valued $1000 and higher.
Dan Harris researches coin values and publishes the findings at CoinStudy.com. If you need in depth dime values... go straight to the page:
http://www.coinstudy.com/dime-values.html
Additionally, practical advice is given to identify all of your coins, by date, mintmark and special varieties. Also "Grade" the condition of your coins with images and descriptions to accurately determine value. Visit: http://www.CoinStudy.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Daniel_Harris
