The 1975 No‑S Roosevelt Dime is one of the ultimate modern rarities in U.S. numismatics. Struck at the San Francisco Mint as part of a proof set, this dime should have displayed the “S” mint mark—but it didn’t.
Only two examples have ever surfaced, launching this coin into the highest echelon of collectible currency.
The Error That Changed Everything
Produced in 1975, San Francisco minted approximately 2.8 million proof dimes for collectors. Typically, every one would bear the “S” mint mark above the date.
However, due to a minting error, two dimes escaped without this identifying mark, creating a disappearing‑mint‑mark phenomenon known as the No‑S error.
Known Examples and Auction Records
| Year Found | Grading Agency (PCGS) | Grade | Auction House | Final Sale Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | PCGS PR68 #20519253 | PR68 | Stack’s Bowers | $349,600 |
| 2019 | PCGS PR68 #20519253 | PR68 | Heritage | $456,000 |
| 2024 | PCGS PR67 #32803312 | PR67 | GreatCollections | $506,250 |
- The PR68 specimen from 2011 fetched $349,600; later in 2019, that same coin sold for $456,000.
- In October 2024, its “sister” coin, graded PR67, sold for an incredible $506,250.
How the Error Occurred
The flaw stems from San Francisco’s proof‑set production process. Regularly, dies for proof coins include the “S” mint mark. One of the dime dies missed that detail—likely due to human error during die creation or a filled‑die situation where grease or debris blocked the mint mark cavity.
Spotting a Genuine 1975 No‑S Proof Dime
To authenticate this rarity, collectors must confirm:
- Proof finish: deep mirrored fields and frosted devices, unlike flat business strikes
- Absence of “S” mint mark above the date—a detail only found on proof‑set coins
- Grading by a top service like PCGS or NGC to confirm proof strike and missing mint mark
From Farm to Auction Block
One of the two known No‑S dimes was purchased in 1978 by a dairy‑farming family in Ohio for $18,200, kept safely in a vault. In October 2024, this very coin sold for $506,250—a staggering 2,700 % increase in value over its original acquisition price.
Why It Matters
The 1975 No‑S Roosevelt Dime is more than a curiosity. It’s one of the rarest modern American coins, transforming a humble proof‑set release into a half‑million‑dollar treasure. Any future discovery of a third example would reshape the market, but for now, collectors treat these two coins as near‑mythical.
The Collector’s Perspective
- Numismatic significance: A proof‑set strike missing its mint mark is an extraordinary die‑and‑striking rarity.
- Financial magnitude: Half‑million‑dollar realized values place it among elite modern coins.
- Investment potential: With only two known, these dimes are likely to maintain or increase in value, barring a wild discovery.
What to Do If You Think You Have One
- Examine the finish: confirm it’s proof, not a normal business strike.
- Look closely above the date—no “S” should be present.
- Submit the coin to PCGS or NGC for authentication and grading.
- Consult auction houses like GreatCollections or Heritage for consignment advice.
The 1975 No‑S Roosevelt Dime stands as a testament to how a single absent letter can elevate a coin to unparalleled fame.
From a $7 proof‑set inclusion to a half‑million‑dollar auction star, it illustrates the high stakes—and high rewards—of the numismatic world.
The 1975 No‑S Roosevelt Dime epitomizes the allure of mint‑made errors and the seismic impact they can have on value.
With only two known specimens, both commanding roughly $350,000–$506,000 at auction, this dime has earned a legendary status among modern coin errors.
Its existence reminds collectors and hobbyists that even a seemingly ordinary proof set can hide a full‑blown treasure. In the end, this dime is not just about money—it’s about mystery, history, and the excitement of uncovering the unexpected.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What makes the 1975 No‑S Roosevelt Dime so valuable?
Its staggering value stems from extreme rarity: only two specimens are known, and both are proof‑set errors missing the “S” mint mark—making it one of the rarest and most sought‑after modern U.S. coins.
2. Could a circulated 1975 dime without an “S” mint mark also be valuable?
No—most 1975 dimes without a mint mark are Philadelphia business strikes, produced in the millions and only worth face value or a few cents unless in perfect, uncirculated condition.
3. What should I do if I find a 1975 dime that seems to be missing the mint mark?
First, verify that it’s a proof strike exhibiting mirrored fields and frosted devices. If so, have it authenticated and graded by PCGS or NGC, then consult a reputable auction house for evaluation and consignment.