Only 24 of the legendary 1894-S Barber Dimes were struck at the San Francisco Mint, and just nine are known today. One was even used by superintendent John Daggett’s young daughter to buy ice cream.

Only 24 of the legendary 1894-S Barber Dimes were struck at the San Francisco Mint, and just nine are known today. One was even used by superintendent John Daggett’s young daughter to buy ice cream. The surviving coins are split between museums and private collections, with two still missing and possibly hiding in an attic jar or old change. One example has sold at auction for almost $2 million, turning an ordinary-looking dime into a life-changing discovery.

If you ever sift through old coins, this dime is identified by the year “1894” and an “S” mint mark on one side, usually on a worn but silver coin. Because there are many counterfeits, anyone who suspects they’ve found one is urged to get it professionally appraised before celebrating. A confirmed 1894-S Barber Dime can be auctioned or kept in the family, combining potential wealth with a tangible piece of history. Even if you never find this specific rarity, learning what makes coins valuable, visiting coin shows, or joining a local club can turn casual searching into a rewarding hobby. Somewhere out there, two original dimes are still unaccounted for, waiting for someone curious enough to look closely at their pocket change—and maybe celebrate with an ice cream cone in honor of Daggett’s daughter.