The rare dimes and bicentennial quarter are likely unique or extremely scarce coins that hold significant historical value. They might have been minted in limited quantities due to errors, special designs, or other unique circumstances.
The value of these coins far exceeds their face value due to their rarity and desirability among collectors. Collectors are often willing to pay substantial sums to acquire such rare pieces for their collections.
Despite their high value, these rare coins have somehow remained in circulation rather than being immediately collected or preserved. This could be due to various factors such as oversight, ignorance of their rarity, or simply the chance of them being spent as ordinary currency.
The fact that these valuable coins are still in circulation suggests that they have evaded detection by both collectors and individuals who handle currency, including bank tellers and cashiers, for an extended period.
Many people might not be aware of the rarity and value of certain coins, especially if they don't actively collect or study numismatics (the study of coins). Therefore, they might unknowingly spend or exchange these valuable coins like any other regular currency.
It's possible that the current owners of these rare coins are using them in everyday transactions, oblivious to their exceptional value. They might be using them to pay for goods and services without realizing that they possess coins worth millions of dollars.
Despite efforts by collectors, numismatists, and organizations like the U.S. Mint to track and preserve rare coins, some manage to persist in circulation due to sheer chance or oversight.
The existence of such valuable coins in circulation can spark excitement and curiosity among collectors and enthusiasts, leading to intensified efforts to locate and acquire them. This can turn into a kind of treasure hunt, with individuals scouring through their pocket change or actively seeking out rare coins in hopes of finding a hidden gem.