A Coin Worth Millions
A rare Mercury Dime, valued at an astonishing $27.3 million, has set off a nationwide hunt after it sold at auction last month. Found in a Florida woman’s old coin purse, this 1916-D dime is one of the rarest coins in U.S. history. Experts believe a few more might still be hiding in wallets, change jars, or cash registers. The discovery has everyone checking their dimes, hoping to find a tiny piece of change that could make them rich.
The Mercury Dime’s Unique Story
The Mercury Dime, minted from 1916 to 1945, shows a young Liberty with a winged cap on one side and a bundle of sticks on the back. It got its name because people thought the cap looked like the Roman god Mercury. The 1916-D dime, made in Denver, is super rare because only 264,000 were minted, and very few survive in good shape. The $27.3 million dime was graded Mint State 67 by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), meaning it’s nearly perfect.
Why It’s So Valuable
This dime’s huge price comes from its scarcity and condition. The 1916-D Mercury Dime had a tiny mint run, and most were worn out or lost over time. The one sold was almost flawless, with sharp details on Liberty’s hair and the sticks on the back. Its rarity and historical value make it a collector’s dream. Another 1916-D dime sold for $2.9 million in 2019, but this one’s pristine state pushed its value to a record-breaking $27.3 million.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Type | 1916-D Mercury Dime |
| Material | 90% Silver |
| Auction Value | $27.3 Million |
| Grading | PCGS Mint State 67 |
| Mintage | 264,000 |
How to Spot a Valuable Dime
Want to find a million-dollar dime? Here’s what to look for:
- Date and Mint Mark: Check for “1916-D” on the front, with a small “D” near the bottom.
- Condition: Look for clear details on Liberty’s cap and wings or the sticks on the back.
- Weight: Silver dimes weigh about 2.5 grams.
- Shine: A silver dime has a bright, high-pitched ring when dropped.
If you find a 1916-D dime, don’t clean it—it could lower its value. Take it to a coin dealer or grading service like PCGS or NGC to check if it’s real. These dimes are rare, but they could still be in circulation.
A Nationwide Coin Hunt
The $27.3 million sale has sparked a frenzy. People are posting pictures of their Mercury Dimes on social media, hoping they’ve got a winner. Coin shops are seeing more visitors with old change, and collectors are sharing tips on spotting rare coins. One 1916-D dime was found in a thrift store coin roll last year, selling for $1.4 million. The Florida woman plans to use her earnings to retire early, calling the find “a total shock.” Stories like hers keep the excitement alive.
Check Your Change Now
This discovery shows that a fortune could be hiding in your pocket. A 1916-D Mercury Dime in your change jar or old coin collection could be worth millions. Experts suggest looking through family heirlooms or loose change from cash purchases. Even if you don’t find a $27.3 million dime, other rare coins could still bring a nice payout. So, grab your coins and take a closer look—you might just be holding a life-changing treasure.
