Imagine discovering a coin in your pocket change worth nearly $1 million. This isn’t a fantasy—such a coin exists.
A rare 1975 Roosevelt Dime without its mint mark has fetched up to $957,000 at auction, and remarkably, similar coins might still be circulating today.
The Roosevelt Dime: A Brief History
Introduced in 1946, the Roosevelt Dime honors President Franklin D. Roosevelt, acknowledging his leadership during the Great Depression and World War II, as well as his support for the March of Dimes campaign against polio.
Designed by John R. Sinnock, the dime features Roosevelt’s profile on the obverse and a torch flanked by olive and oak branches on the reverse, symbolizing liberty, peace, and strength.
The $957,000 Dime: What Makes It So Valuable?
The extraordinary value of this dime stems from a minting error. In 1975, the San Francisco Mint produced proof dimes intended for collectors, which should bear an “S” mint mark.
However, a few were mistakenly struck without this mark, resulting in the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime. Only two such dimes are known to exist, making them exceedingly rare and highly sought after by collectors.
Auction Highlights
- 2019: One of the two known 1975 No-S dimes sold for $456,000.
- 2024: The second known specimen fetched $506,250 at auction.
- 2025: Reports suggest a similar dime has been valued at $957,000, though specific details remain undisclosed.
These sales underscore the immense value collectors place on rarity and minting errors.
How to Identify a Valuable Roosevelt Dime
To determine if you possess a rare Roosevelt Dime:
- Check the Date: Look for dimes dated 1975.
- Inspect the Mint Mark: On dimes from this year, the mint mark is located above the date on the obverse side. A missing “S” mint mark on a proof coin indicates a potential rarity.
- Assess the Coin’s Finish: Proof coins have a mirror-like finish and are struck with greater detail. If your 1975 dime lacks the “S” mint mark and has a proof finish, it could be one of the rare No-S dimes.
- Consult a Professional: If you believe you have a rare dime, have it evaluated by a reputable coin grading service like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC).
Other Valuable Roosevelt Dimes
While the 1975 No-S dime is exceptionally rare, other Roosevelt Dimes also hold significant value:
| Year | Mint Mark | Notable Feature | Auction Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1968 | No S | Proof coin missing mint mark | $45,600 |
| 1982 | No P | Circulation coin missing mint mark | $1,000+ |
| 1996 | W | West Point Mint, low mintage | Varies |
These coins are valuable due to their rarity, minting errors, or limited production runs.
The Importance of Coin Grading
The condition of a coin significantly impacts its value. Coins are graded on a scale from 1 to 70, with higher numbers indicating better preservation. For rare coins like the 1975 No-S dime, a higher grade can substantially increase its worth.
The discovery of a $957,000 Roosevelt Dime serves as a thrilling reminder that valuable treasures can still be found in everyday life. By staying informed and vigilant, you might just uncover a rare coin in your own pocket change.
FAQs
How can I tell if my 1975 Roosevelt Dime is the rare No-S variety?
Examine the coin for a missing “S” mint mark above the date on the obverse side. If it’s absent and the coin has a proof finish, it could be the rare No-S variety. Consult a professional grading service for verification.
Are there other valuable Roosevelt Dimes I should look for?
Yes, dimes from 1968 (No S proof), 1982 (No P circulation), and 1996 (W mint mark) are notable. Their value depends on rarity, condition, and demand.
Where can I have my coin evaluated?
Reputable coin grading services include the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC). They can authenticate and grade your coin, providing an accurate assessment of its value.