Natalie Star
A man recently made a routine purchase and received a Roosevelt dime in his change—only to discover it was a rare error coin worth approximately $413,000.
Such finds remind us that everyday currency can sometimes hide extraordinary treasures.
What Makes This Dime So Valuable?
Most Roosevelt dimes are virtually worthless beyond their face value. However, rare mint errors—especially those missing mint marks—can elevate their value dramatically.
One standout example is the 1975–“No‑S” proof Roosevelt dime, struck in San Francisco. This coin lacks the “S” mintmark, a highly unusual anomaly. Only a handful exist. In 2024, one similar dime sold for over $506,000 at auction.
Valuable Roosevelt Dime Error Types
| Error Type | Description | Auction Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1975 No‑S Proof Dime | Missing “S” mintmark from San Francisco proof set | ~$500,000–$506,000 |
| 1968 No‑S Proof Dime | Proof dime missing “S”, rare circulation find | ~$45,600 |
| 1982‑P No P Mintmark Dime | Mint error omitting “P” from Philadelphia mint | ~$50–$75 |
These types illustrate how mint mark omissions—particularly from proof sets—can yield astonishing valuation.
How Did He End Up With the Rare Dime?
He received the dime in regular change, likely unaware of its rarity. Many error coins circulate unnoticed.
The condition and mint mark error of the coin are what give it such high value, not the Roosevelt design itself.
Why Do Error Coins Fetch So Much?
- Scarcity: Only a few examples exist, especially No‑S proof dimes.
- Collector Demand: Coin enthusiasts highly prize rare mint mistakes.
- Condition Matters: High-grade coins (e.g. PCGS 68–70) attract premium prices.
- Historical Significance: The 1975 dime error emerged in a proof set issued in small quantities, enhancing its collectability.
How to Identify a Valuable Roosevelt Dime
- Look for missing mintmarks, especially “S” on a San Francisco proof dime.
- Check date ranges: Notably 1968, 1975, and a few years beyond.
- Evaluate condition: Uncirculated and high grades significantly raise value.
- Consult a coin grading authority like PCGS or NGC to certify authenticity and quality.
Noteworthy Auction Results
- A 1975 Proof Roosevelt Dime without an “S” mintmark sold for $506,250 in late 2024.
- Another similar dime previously fetched $456,000 in 2019.
- A 1968 No‑S dime recently sold for $45,600 due to its rarity.
What began as a simple dime in spare change turned into a life-changing find. A rare error Roosevelt dime—most likely a No‑S proof from 1975 or 1968—can be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.
This incident is a reminder: every coin has a story, and sometimes, extraordinary value hides in plain sight.
If you find a Roosevelt dime with no mintmark or unusual characteristics, don’t dismiss it. Get it appraised—you might just stumble upon your own treasure.
FAQs
Why would a Roosevelt dime be worth over $400,000?
A Roosevelt dime missing its mintmark (especially “S”)—particularly from a 1975 proof set—is extremely rare and highly collectible, fetching top auction prices.
Which Roosevelt dimes are most valuable?
How can I check if my dime is valuable?
Check for missing mintmarks, assess the condition, and consult a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC for authentication.