Top 5 Ultra-Rare Roosevelt Dimes Worth Millions: Did you know that some everyday dimes from your change jar or old collection could be worth a fortune? Roosevelt dimes, minted since 1946 to honor President Franklin D. Roosevelt, are common coins—but rare errors and varieties have sold for hundreds of thousands of dollars at auctions. Check your coins today; you might own one of these valuable hidden gems worth far more than 10 cents!
Roosevelt dimes feature President Roosevelt on the front and a torch, olive branch, and oak branch on the back. Most are made of copper-nickel today, but early ones (1946-1964) contain silver. While billions exist, minting mistakes like missing letters or special strikes make a few ultra-valuable. Collectors love these because they combine history, rarity, and excitement. Prices depend on condition—higher grades mean more money. Always get rare coins checked by experts.
Why Some Roosevelt Dimes Are So Valuable
Mint errors happen when something goes wrong during production, like forgetting a mint mark (a small letter showing where the coin was made). Proof coins, made specially for collectors with shiny surfaces, can have big errors too. Low production numbers or unique features also boost value. Recent auctions show strong demand, with top examples fetching huge sums.
Top 5 Rare Roosevelt Dimes Worth Money
Here are five standout rare Roosevelt dimes. These are prized by collectors for their scarcity and interesting stories.
1. 1975 No-S Proof Dime
This is the king of modern dime errors. Proof coins from San Francisco should have an “S” mark, but two dimes missed it due to a die mistake.
- Why rare: Only two known examples exist.
- Features: Shiny proof finish, no “S” above the date.
- Value: Up to $506,000 (one sold for this in 2024).
2. 1968 No-S Proof Dime
The first major “No-S” proof error. Dies were prepared without the San Francisco mark.
- Why rare: Fewer than 50 known.
- Features: Mirror-like proof surfaces, no “S”.
- Value: $15,000 to $50,000+ in high grades.
3. 1982 No-P Dime
Philadelphia coins got a “P” mark starting in 1980, but some 1982 dimes missed it. Two types: strong and weak strike.
- Why rare: Limited number released, mostly in one area.
- Features: No “P” under the date; check for sharp details.
- Value: $100 to $500+ (strong strike higher).
4. 1996-W Roosevelt Dime
Made for the 50th anniversary, struck at West Point with a “W” mark. Only in special mint sets.
- Why rare: Lowest mintage in the series (about 1.4 million).
- Features: “W” mint mark, uncirculated quality.
- Value: $10 to $50 in perfect condition.
5. 1970 No-S Proof Dime
Another proof error missing the “S”.
- Why rare: Small number known.
- Features: Proof shine, no “S”.
- Value: $500 to $2,000+.
| Rank | Year & Variety | Key Feature | Estimated Value (High Grade) | Known Examples |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1975 No-S Proof | Missing “S” mint mark | Up to $506,000 | 2 |
| 2 | 1968 No-S Proof | Missing “S” mint mark | $15,000–$50,000 | Under 50 |
| 3 | 1982 No-P | Missing “P” mint mark | $100–$500+ | Thousands |
| 4 | 1996-W | “W” mint mark | $10–$50 | ~1.4 million |
| 5 | 1970 No-S Proof | Missing “S” mint mark | $500–$2,000+ | Dozens |
How to Spot These Valuable Dimes
Look closely with a magnifying glass:
- Check above the date for missing mint marks.
- Proof coins have extra-shiny, mirror-like fields.
- Compare to normal dimes from the same year.
- Silver dimes (pre-1965) have no copper edge.
Get suspicious coins graded by services like PCGS or NGC for authentication and value boost.
Tips for Coin Hunting
Search rolls from banks, old jars, or estate sales. Focus on proof sets for “No-S” errors. Use apps or books for identification. Sell through reputable dealers or auctions—never clean coins, as it reduces value.
Conclusion
Roosevelt dimes prove that small change can hold big value. From dramatic proof errors worth hundreds of thousands to special anniversary issues, these coins excite collectors worldwide. Start checking your pockets and drawers today—you never know what treasure awaits. With rising interest in rare coins, now is a great time to explore this hobby. Happy hunting!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are all Roosevelt dimes without mint marks valuable? A: No. Only specific proof errors like the 1975 or 1968 No-S are rare and expensive. Regular circulation dimes without marks (from Philadelphia) are common and worth face value.
Q: How can I tell if my dime is a proof coin? A: Proofs have deep mirror-like fields and frosted designs. They come from special sets, not circulation.
Q: What’s the best way to sell a rare dime? A: Get it graded first by PCGS or NGC. Then use auction houses or trusted dealers for maximum value.
Q: Do silver Roosevelt dimes have extra value? A: Yes, 1946-1964 dimes are 90% silver and worth at least their melt value (around $2-3 today), plus more if rare.
Q: Where can I learn more about coin values? A: Check sites like PCGS CoinFacts, NGC, or books on U.S. errors. Join local coin clubs for advice.