Roosevelt dimes have been circulating since 1946, often overlooked due to their small size and everyday use. However, some rare and valuable varieties are still hiding in circulation, worth hundreds, thousands, or even hundreds of thousands of dollars. These coins are prized by collectors due to minting errors, low survival rates, or design anomalies.
In this article, we explore the top 5 most valuable Roosevelt dimes that could still turn up in your pocket change—and how to identify them.
Why Roosevelt Dimes Are Collectible
The Roosevelt dime was first minted in 1946 to commemorate President Franklin D. Roosevelt, replacing the Winged Liberty (Mercury) dime. Over the years, this coin has been minted in both silver (pre-1965) and clad (post-1965) compositions.
While most Roosevelt dimes are common, a few rare varieties stand out due to errors, mint mark anomalies, and limited production runs.
Collectors pay high premiums for certain dimes—especially those with missing mint marks, proof issues, or doubled dies. Let’s break down the most valuable examples you could still find in everyday change.
Top 5 Most Valuable Roosevelt Dimes
1. 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime – Up to $500,000
This dime is one of the rarest modern coins ever produced. It was mistakenly struck at the San Francisco Mint without the “S” mintmark, which should appear on all proof coins from that facility. Only two confirmed examples of this error exist, making it a true modern treasure.
One of these sold at auction for over $500,000, making it the most valuable Roosevelt dime ever. Though proof coins were not meant for circulation, one could have slipped into the public.
If you come across a 1975 dime with no mint mark and proof-like features, have it authenticated immediately.
2. 1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime – Up to $45,000
Another extremely rare coin, this dime is also a proof coin missing the “S” mintmark. In 1968, all proof coins were produced at the San Francisco Mint and should have an “S” on the obverse.
A small number of these error dimes were released without the mint mark, and they are highly sought after. Depending on condition, these coins have sold for as much as $45,600 at auction.
Collectors should look for deep mirror-like surfaces and sharp details, typical of proof coins, when checking their collections or proof sets.
3. 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime – $50 to $300+
In 1982, the Philadelphia Mint accidentally released dimes without their “P” mint mark. While all Philadelphia-minted dimes that year were supposed to bear the “P”, some early strikes missed it due to a filled die.
These coins are not as rare as the No-S proofs, but they still bring in a healthy premium. Depending on the grade, uncirculated examples can sell for between $50 and $300 or more.
This variety is particularly interesting because it’s not a proof—these were struck for general circulation. So, if you find a 1982 dime with no mint mark, you may be holding a small fortune.
4. 1970, 1975, and 1983 No-S Proof Dimes – Up to $450,000
Several other years also feature missing “S” mint marks on proof dimes. The most notable are:
- 1970 No-S Proof Dime
- 1983 No-S Proof Dime
These coins were part of specially issued sets but were struck with dies that had no mint mark. All of them are exceptionally rare, and some have fetched between $350,000 and $450,000 in top condition.
Like other No-S proofs, these were never intended for circulation. However, proof sets can be broken up or mistakenly spent, so it’s not impossible to encounter one.
5. 1946-S Doubled Die Reverse Dime – Up to $5,800
The Roosevelt dime’s debut year, 1946, also produced a rare error coin at the San Francisco Mint. Some dimes show a doubled die on the reverse, particularly noticeable in the torch and tree branches.
Though not as widely known as other doubled die coins like the 1955 Lincoln cent, this error is still highly valuable. In high grades, such as MS68 with Full Bands, these coins can sell for up to $5,800.
Keep an eye out for strong doubling under magnification—particularly in the horizontal lines of the torch.
Summary of the Top 5 Roosevelt Dimes
| Dime Type | Key Feature | Estimated Value | Rarity Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1975 No-S Proof | Missing S mintmark (proof) | Up to $500,000 | Extremely Rare (2 known) |
| 1968 No-S Proof | Missing S mintmark (proof) | Up to $45,600 | Very Rare |
| 1982 No-P Clad | Missing P mintmark | $50 – $300+ | Rare |
| 1970, 1975, 1983 No-S Proof | Missing S on various proofs | Up to $450,000 | Extremely Rare |
| 1946-S Doubled Die Reverse | Doubled die on reverse | Up to $5,800 | Scarce |
How to Check for These Valuable Dimes
If you want to start hunting for these treasures, here’s what to do:
- Use a magnifying glass or jeweler’s loupe (10x or higher) to inspect mint marks and details.
- Check for proof-like surfaces (mirror finish) on coins that shouldn’t be proofs.
- Look for doubling on the reverse of older dimes like the 1946-S.
- For the 1982 No-P, look closely at the date—if there’s no mint mark above the year, you might have a winner.
- Avoid cleaning the coin. If you suspect it’s rare, have it graded by professionals like PCGS or NGC.
Tips for Storing and Handling Valuable Dimes
If you believe you’ve found a valuable Roosevelt dime:
- Do not clean it. This can reduce the value drastically.
- Handle the coin by the edges to avoid fingerprints.
- Place it in a 2×2 coin flip or plastic holder for protection.
- Get the coin professionally graded to validate its authenticity and condition.
The Roosevelt dime is more than just small change. Within its long-running series are several rare varieties worth far more than face value. From missing mint marks to proof errors and doubled dies, these coins prove that hidden treasures can still exist in the most ordinary places—like your pocket, purse, or coin jar.
If you’re lucky enough to come across one of these dimes, you could be holding a coin worth thousands—or even hundreds of thousands—of dollars.
So next time you get change back at the store, take a closer look. One of these valuable Roosevelt dimes might just be waiting for you.
FAQs
1. What’s the most valuable Roosevelt dime ever found?
The most valuable known is the 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime, with one selling for around $500,000. Only two are confirmed to exist.
2. Are there any rare Roosevelt dimes still in circulation?
Yes, especially the 1982 No-P dime, which was released into general circulation. Others like the 1946-S doubled die could also be found, though rarer.
3. How can I tell if my Roosevelt dime is a proof?
Proof coins have a mirror-like finish, sharp details, and are usually struck twice. If the coin has these features but is missing a mint mark, it could be a valuable No-S error.