Most people think a dime is only worth ten cents, but for coin collectors, the Roosevelt dime series contains some of the most expensive “hidden treasures” in the world. As we move into 2026, the market for rare modern errors is reaching record highs.
If you have a collection or even just a jar of spare change, you need to know how to spot these five specific coins that could be worth a life-changing amount of money.
The 1975 “No S” Proof Roosevelt Dime
This is officially the “Holy Grail” of modern American coins. In 1975, the San Francisco Mint produced special “Proof” sets for collectors. By mistake, at least two dimes were struck without the “S” mint mark.
- Why it’s rare: Only two confirmed examples exist in the entire world.
- How to Identify: It must be a Proof coin (having a mirror-like, shiny surface) with the date 1975 and no letter above the date.
- Current Value: One recently sold for over $500,000, and experts estimate a perfect specimen could approach $1 Million at auction today.
- The 1968 “No S” Proof Roosevelt Dime
Before the 1975 error, the Mint made the same mistake in 1968. This was the first time a Proof coin was ever released without its mint mark.
- How to Identify: Look for a 1968 dime with a mirror-like finish and no “S” mint mark.
- Value Trend: While more common than the 1975 version (about a dozen are known), these still fetch between $20,000 and $40,000.
The 1982 “No P” Roosevelt Dime
This is the only rare dime on this list you might actually find in regular pocket change. In 1982, the Philadelphia Mint forgot to add the “P” mark to one of its machines.
- How to Identify: Check every 1982 dime. If there is no letter above the date, you found it! (Normal 1982 dimes have a “P” or “D”).
- 2025-2026 Value: Depending on how shiny and clean it is, these sell for $300 to $3,000.
The 1996-W Roosevelt Dime
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the dime, the Mint made a special version at the West Point Mint. These were never put into circulation; they were only included in special “Mint Sets.”
- How to Identify: Look for the “W” mint mark above the date. If you find one in your change, someone likely broke open a collector’s set to spend it!
- Value: High-grade “MS70” (perfect) versions can sell for $500 to $1,000.
The 1949-S Silver Roosevelt Dime
1949 was a year with very low production at the San Francisco Mint. Because these are 90% silver, they are already valuable, but “Mint State” versions are incredibly rare.
- How to Identify: Look for the “S” on the back of a 1949 silver dime. It must look brand new, with no scratches.
- Value: While a worn one is worth $5, a perfect “Full Bands” (meaning the torch on the back is perfectly detailed) specimen can reach $5,000 to $10,000.
Rare Roosevelt Dime Value Summary Table
| Year / Type | Key Feature | Rarity Level | Estimated Value (2025-26) |
| 1975 No S | Proof / No Mint Mark | Ultra Rare (2 known) | $500,000 – $1M+ |
| 1968 No S | Proof / No Mint Mark | Very Rare | $20,000 – $40,000 |
| 1982 No P | Regular / No Mint Mark | Rare | $300 – $3,000 |
| 1996-W | “W” Mint Mark | Collector Item | $50 – $1,000 |
| 1949-S | 90% Silver / High Grade | Key Date | $100 – $10,000 |
FAQ: How to Hunt for Rare Dimes
Q: Is my 1975 dime with no letter rare?
A: Probably not. Most 1975 dimes were made in Philadelphia and have no letter—these are common. To be the “million dollar” coin, it must be a Proof coin (extra shiny, mirror-like surface).
Q: Where is the mint mark on a dime?
A: On modern dimes (1968–Present), the letter is above the date on the front. On silver dimes (1946–1964), the letter is on the back, at the bottom of the torch.
Q: Should I clean my dimes to see the date better?
A: No! Cleaning a coin with chemicals or cloth scratches the surface and can ruin the value. Use a magnifying glass or a phone camera to zoom in instead.
Conclusion
Finding a rare Roosevelt dime requires a sharp eye and a bit of luck. While the “No S” proofs are the kings of the series, the 1982 “No P” and the 1996-W are coins that still occasionally slip into circulation. Always check the area above the date—that tiny missing letter could be the difference between ten cents and a small fortune.