Most people look at a dime and see just ten cents. However, in the world of coin collecting, some Roosevelt dimes are like winning lottery tickets hiding in plain sight. In 2026, the market for rare dimes is stronger than ever, with certain “error” coins and rare dates selling for thousands of dollars.
If you have a jar of old change, it’s time to empty it out. Here is your simple guide to finding the top 5 rarest Roosevelt dimes.
What Makes a Roosevelt Dime Valuable?
Before we look at the list, you need to know what to look for. Collectors pay high prices for three main things:
- Silver Content: Any dime made in 1964 or earlier is 90% silver.
- Mint Errors: Mistakes made by the machines at the U.S. Mint.
- Condition: Coins that look brand new (called “Mint State”) are worth much more than worn-out ones.
Top 5 Rare Roosevelt Dimes to Watch For
The 1975 “No S” Proof Dime
This is the “Holy Grail” of Roosevelt dimes. Proof coins are special shiny coins made for collectors and usually have an “S” mark for San Francisco. In 1975, a few were made without the “S.”
- How to Identify: It must be a Proof coin (mirror-like finish) from a 1975 proof set, but it will be missing the “S” above the date.
- 2026 Estimated Value: $450,000 – $1,000,000+ (Only two are known to exist!)
The 1968 “No S” Proof Dime
Similar to the 1975 version, this was the first time the Mint forgot to add the “S” to a proof coin.
- How to Identify: Look for a 1968 dime with a very shiny, mirror-like surface that has no letter above the date.
- 2026 Estimated Value: $20,000 – $40,000 in perfect condition.
The 1982 “No P” Dime
In 1982, the Philadelphia Mint started putting a “P” on dimes. However, they forgot the letter on one set of machines. This is the only rare dime you might actually find in your pocket change today!
- How to Identify: Look for a 1982 dime with no mint mark (no letter) above the date.
- Note: If it’s a 1979 or older dime with no letter, it’s normal. Only the 1982 version is the rare “No P” error.
- 2026 Estimated Value: $300 – $3,000 depending on how clean it looks.
The 1996-W Dime
This coin was never put into circulation. It was only sold in special “Mint Sets” to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Roosevelt dime.
- How to Identify: Look for the “W” mint mark (for West Point) above the date.
- 2026 Estimated Value: $30 – $500 (High-grade “MS69” or “MS70” versions fetch the highest prices).
5. The 1964-D “Doubled Die Reverse”
1964 was the last year dimes were made of silver. This specific version has a “doubling” error on the back.
- How to Identify: Look at the back of a 1964-D silver dime. Use a magnifying glass to look at the torch and the words “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” If the letters look like they were stamped twice (blurry or shifted), you found it!
- 2026 Estimated Value: $100 – $600.
Quick Value Reference Table (2026)
| Year/Type | What to Look For | Rarity | Estimated Value |
| 1975 No S | Proof coin, No “S” mark | Ultra Rare | $500,000+ |
| 1968 No S | Proof coin, No “S” mark | Very Rare | $20,000+ |
| 1982 No P | Regular coin, No “P” mark | Rare | $300 – $3,000 |
| 1964-D DDR | Doubled letters on back | Hard to find | $100 – $600 |
| Pre-1965 | 90% Silver | Common | $2 – $10 (Silver value) |
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where is the mint mark on a Roosevelt dime?
A: On dimes made from 1946–1964, it is on the back (bottom left of the torch). From 1968–Present, it is on the front just above the date.
Q: Are 1965 dimes silver?
A: No. 1964 was the last year for silver. 1965 dimes are made of copper and nickel and are usually only worth 10 cents.
Q: Should I clean my old dimes?
A: Never clean your coins! Cleaning a rare coin with chemicals or cloth can destroy its value. Collectors want the original “skin” or patina of the coin.
Conclusion
Finding a rare Roosevelt dime is all about the details. Whether it’s a missing “S,” a special “W,” or a doubling error, these small marks can turn a 10-cent coin into a small fortune. Always check your change, and if you find something suspicious, keep it in a soft plastic flip and take it to a professional coin dealer.