You probably don’t think twice about a dime — after all, it’s just ten cents. But what if that small coin in your change jar is actually worth a fortune? Believe it or not, certain Roosevelt dimes have sold for hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars due to rare minting errors, missing mint marks, and special editions that slipped through the cracks.
In this detailed guide, we’ll uncover the seven most valuable Roosevelt dimes, explain what makes them special, and show you exactly how to spot one in your own collection.
Expert Quote:
“Even modern coins can carry incredible value when you factor in minting mistakes and scarcity,” says Jeff Garrett, past president of the American Numismatic Association. “The Roosevelt dime is one of the best examples of that.”
Why Are Some Roosevelt Dimes Worth Millions?
Minted since 1946 to honour President Franklin D. Roosevelt, most dimes are mass-produced, making them worth face value. But certain key variations — caused by minting errors, limited proof runs, or missing mint marks — have turned ordinary dimes into rare treasures.
Here’s why collectors pay huge sums for these coins:
- Error Coins: Mistakes like missing letters, doubled designs, or wrong metal planchets make coins one of a kind.
- Low Mintage: Some coins were produced in such small quantities that only a few remain today.
- Condition: Proof and uncirculated coins with flawless details fetch premium prices.
- Historical Significance: Early Roosevelt dimes capture a special place in U.S. coinage history.
1. 1968 No-S Proof Dime
Estimated Value: Up to $2.5 million
What Makes It Special:
This dime is a proof coin without the “S” mint mark (for San Francisco). Only a handful were made when a minting die was mistakenly used before the “S” mark was added.
How to Identify It:
- Mirror-like proof finish.
- No mint mark on the obverse side near the date.
- Should be part of a 1968-S proof set if uncirculated.
Fun Fact: A 1968 No-S Proof Dime was sold privately for over $2 million, making it one of the most valuable modern dimes ever struck.
2. 1975 No-S Proof Dime
Estimated Value: $450,000 – $1.5 million
What Makes It Special:
Only two examples of this error coin are known. The “S” mint mark was accidentally omitted from proof dies used in San Francisco that year.
How to Identify It:
- Glossy, mirror-like proof finish.
- Absence of an “S” near Roosevelt’s neck.
- Often authenticated by PCGS or NGC due to its rarity.
“The 1975 No-S Proof Dime is virtually a unicorn among U.S. coins — it shouldn’t exist,” says David Camire, NGC coin grading expert.
3. 1970 No-S Proof Dime
Estimated Value: $500,000 – $1 million
What Makes It Special:
Yet another proof minting mishap from San Francisco — this dime was struck without the “S” mark. Only a few have surfaced, making it a must-have for elite collectors.
How to Identify It:
- No mint mark on the obverse.
- Distinct proof finish (sharp relief and mirrored background).
4. 1982 No-P Dime
Estimated Value: $1,000 – $10,000
What Makes It Special:
This is the first Philadelphia-minted coin missing its “P” mint mark, a striking error for a circulation coin. Tens of thousands were minted before the mistake was caught, but only a few remain in pristine condition.
How to Identify It:
- Missing “P” above the date.
- Typically found in circulation.
- Copper-nickel composition, not silver.
In 2012, a near-mint 1982 No-P Dime sold for $7,000 at auction.
5. 1996-W Dime
Estimated Value: $10 – $500
What Makes It Special:
This isn’t an error coin — it was intentionally minted at the West Point Mint (W) to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Roosevelt dime. It was never released into circulation, making uncirculated examples quite desirable.
How to Identify It:
- “W” mint mark under Roosevelt’s neck.
- Found only in special 1996 Mint Sets.
Tip: If you find a 1996 dime in circulation with a sharp strike and no wear, double-check that mint mark!
6. 1955 Doubled Die Obverse Dime
Estimated Value: $1,000 – $25,000
What Makes It Special:
This striking error features visible doubling of letters and numbers on the obverse due to a die misalignment during minting.
How to Identify It:
- Doubling visible in “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
- Use a magnifying glass for best results.
7. 1949-S Dime (Low Mintage)
Estimated Value: $50 – $5,000
What Makes It Special:
The 1949-S had a very low mintage (13.5 million) compared to other Roosevelt dimes of the time. High-grade versions are rare and command top prices.
How to Identify It:
- Look for the “S” mint mark.
- Strong detail and no wear for higher value.
Quick Reference Table
| Dime Type | Year | Mint Mark | Key Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| No-S Proof | 1968 | None | Missing “S” mark | Up to $2.5M |
| No-S Proof | 1975 | None | Extremely rare, only 2 known | $450K–$1.5M |
| No-S Proof | 1970 | None | Missing “S” mint mark | $500K–$1M |
| No-P Dime | 1982 | None | Missing “P” from Philadelphia | $1K–$10K |
| 50th Anniversary | 1996 | W | West Point Mint | $10–$500 |
| Doubled Die | 1955 | None | Doubling on lettering | $1K–$25K |
| Low Mintage | 1949 | S | San Francisco issue | $50–$5K |
How to Check Your Roosevelt Dimes?
- Look for the Mint Mark
- “S” = San Francisco (proofs)
- “P” = Philadelphia
- “W” = West Point
- No mint mark = Possible rarity or early coin
- Inspect Under Magnification
Check for doubling or missing mint marks using a jeweler’s loupe. - Check Weight and Color
Silver dimes (pre-1965) weigh more and have no copper streak on the edge. - Get Professional Verification
Submit to PCGS or NGC for grading and authentication — a crucial step for coins valued above $1,000.
Tips for Selling a Rare Dime
- Avoid Cleaning: Cleaning can remove patina and reduce value dramatically.
- Use Coin Holders: Keep coins protected from fingerprints, moisture, and sunlight.
- Research Market Prices: Compare recent sales on Heritage Auctions or eBay.
- Consider Auctions: For six-figure coins, top auction houses like Stack’s Bowers or Sotheby’s yield the best returns.
Why Collectors Love Roosevelt Dimes?
The Roosevelt dime represents more than currency — it’s a piece of postwar American history. Introduced in 1946, it honors FDR’s legacy and the March of Dimes campaign to fight polio. Its clean design and occasional minting quirks make it one of the most fascinating modern U.S. coins to collect.
Final Thoughts
Roosevelt dimes may seem small, but they hold big potential for collectors and treasure hunters alike. Whether it’s a missing mint mark, a doubled design, or a low-mintage rarity, these coins prove that history — and fortune — can fit in the palm of your hand.
Pro Tip: Check your change. That dime you’re about to spend on coffee could be worth more than the car you drove to buy it.
FAQs
Yes! Dimes minted before 1965 are 90% silver and often worth several dollars just for metal content — even more if in excellent condition.
Proof coins have a mirror-like finish and sharp details, while circulation coins appear duller and show wear.
It’s rare but possible. The 1982 No-P and 1996-W dimes occasionally show up in pocket change.
Absolutely. Professional grading from PCGS or NGC authenticates your coin and increases buyer confidence — and price.
The 1968 No-S Proof Dime, which sold for over $2 million, currently holds that record.
