The Roosevelt Dime has been a staple of American currency since 1946, but while most of these coins are worth just 10 cents, certain rare versions have fetched astounding prices at auctions.
These dimes, often characterized by errors or special minting circumstances, hold immense value for collectors. Here’s an in-depth look at some of the most valuable Roosevelt dimes, complete with details on what makes them so special.
Rare Roosevelt Dimes Worth a Lot of Money
1. 1975 No S Proof Dime – $456,000
One of the most valuable Roosevelt dimes ever, the 1975 No S Proof Dime stands out due to its missing mint mark. Produced at the San Francisco Mint, proof coins usually bear an “S” mint mark, but a few 1975 proof dimes were struck without it, creating a rarity. In 2019, one of these coins sold for a staggering $456,000 at auction.
2. 1968 No S Proof Dime – $45,000
Another dime that missed its mint mark, the 1968 No S Proof Dime is highly sought after. This dime, also struck at the San Francisco Mint, lacks the characteristic “S” mint mark.
In pristine condition, it was sold for $45,000 in an auction, making it one of the most valuable Roosevelt dimes.
3. 1951 Proof Deep Cameo – $23,500
The 1951 Roosevelt Dime in Deep Cameo Proof condition is a rare find. These dimes feature a frosted image with reflective fields, creating a stunning contrast. A 1951 PR68 Deep Cameo sold for $23,500 in 2014 due to its nearly flawless condition.
4. 1950 Proof Dime – $18,800
The 1950 Roosevelt Dime is valuable due to its proof quality, which was struck in limited numbers. A well-preserved PR68 Deep Cameo sold for $18,800 in 2014. Proof coins from this era often exhibit unique features that elevate their value.
5. 1956 Proof Deep Cameo – $19,975
Another valuable Proof Deep Cameo, the 1956 Roosevelt Dime, reached a sale price of $19,975 in 2016. This dime is known for its near-perfect preservation and stunning cameo contrast, making it a favorite among collectors.
6. 1955 MS68 Roosevelt Dime – $9,300
This 1955 dime, graded MS68, stands out due to its sharp features and lack of wear, despite being a circulating coin. It sold for $9,300 at auction.
7. 1954 Proof Deep Cameo – $9,400
With a stunning finish and high-grade condition, the 1954 Roosevelt Dime in PR68 condition sold for $9,400 in 2014. This coin is a popular collectible due to its exceptional quality.
8. 1948 Full Bands MS68 – $8,050
The 1948 Full Bands Roosevelt Dime, graded MS68, is a rare find. The Full Bands designation means the horizontal bands on the torch are fully visible, indicating a strong strike. A coin with this grade and detail sold for $8,050.
9. 1983 No S Proof Dime – $10,560
Another no-mint mark coin, the 1983 No S Proof Dime, sold for $10,560 in 2014. Like the other missing mint mark dimes, its rarity comes from the error made during production.
10. 1996-W Roosevelt Dime – $1,000
Struck to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Roosevelt Dime, the 1996-W was the first dime to bear the “W” mint mark of the West Point Mint. Though not a traditional error coin, this special edition dime in high-grade condition can fetch up to $1,000.
| Year | Coin Description | Grade | Sale Price | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1975 | No S Proof Dime | PR69 | $456,000 | Missing mint mark |
| 1968 | No S Proof Dime | PR68 | $45,000 | Missing mint mark |
| 1951 | Proof Deep Cameo | PR68 | $23,500 | Frosted image, reflective fields |
| 1956 | Proof Deep Cameo | PR69 | $19,975 | Deep Cameo finish |
| 1950 | Proof Dime | PR68 | $18,800 | Rare proof issue |
| 1954 | Proof Deep Cameo | PR68 | $9,400 | Deep Cameo finish |
| 1955 | MS68 Roosevelt Dime | MS68 | $9,300 | Exceptional condition |
| 1983 | No S Proof Dime | PR70 | $10,560 | Missing mint mark |
| 1996 | West Point Mint Special Edition | MS69FB | $1,000 | First “W” mint mark |
| 1948 | Full Bands MS68 | MS68 | $8,050 | Full Bands designation |
Conclusion
Roosevelt dimes are more than just small change—some are worth thousands due to unique mint errors, rare proof conditions, and exceptional quality.
Collectors are always on the lookout for these rare gems, with coins like the 1975 No S Proof Dime reaching prices as high as $456,000. If you happen to have an old dime tucked away, it might be worth checking its value—you could be holding a small fortune.
FAQs
1. What makes a Roosevelt Dime valuable?
Rare mint errors, high-quality proof conditions, and special minting editions such as the 1996-W dime or missing mint marks like the 1975 No S dime elevate the value of Roosevelt Dimes.
2. How can I tell if my dime is valuable?
Check for unique characteristics such as a missing mint mark, full bands on the torch, or Deep Cameo contrast. High-grade coins with minimal wear also tend to be worth more.
3. Where can I get my Roosevelt Dime appraised?
Professional coin grading services such as PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) can provide accurate appraisals and certifications.
4. What does “Full Bands” mean on a Roosevelt Dime?
Full Bands refers to the horizontal bands on the torch, which are fully visible and well-struck, indicating a higher quality of coin.
5. Are modern Roosevelt Dimes worth anything?
Most modern dimes are only worth their face value, but limited-edition proofs or error coins can be worth much more.
References
- Coin Value Checker. (2024). 17 Most Valuable Roosevelt Dime Coins. Retrieved from www.coinvaluechecker.com
- Jacqueline Stallone. (2024). 10 Most Valuable Roosevelt Dimes. Retrieved from www.jacquelinestallone.com
- NGC Auction Central. (2024). Rare and Valuable Roosevelt Dimes. Retrieved from www.ngccoin.com
- CoinWeek. (2024). Top Roosevelt Dimes to Look Out For. Retrieved from www.coinweek.com
