Introduction to Key Date Roosevelt Dimes
While most Roosevelt dimes are common, certain dates, mint marks, and strike types command extraordinary premiums. This guide reveals the most valuable regular-issue and proof Roosevelt dimes that collectors covet, with some selling for five-figure sums.
Featured High-Value Roosevelt Dimes
1. 1956 Proof Deep Cameo (Type 1, Silver)
- Grade: PR69
- Value: $19,975
- Key Features:
- Struck on 90% silver planchets
- Dramatic frosted devices against mirror fields (Deep Cameo)
- Type 1 reverse with smaller torch flame
- One of the finest known examples
2. 1949 Type 1 Full Band (Business Strike)
- Grade: MS68
- Value: $13,200
- Why Collectors Want It:
- First year of the series with coveted “Full Band” designation (complete horizontal lines on torch)
- Type 1 reverse design (later modified in 1950)
- Exceptional luster and strike for a business strike
3. 1983 No S Proof (Type 2, Clad)
- Grade: PR70
- Value: $10,560
- The Rarity:
- Missing San Francisco mint mark on a proof coin
- Type 2 reverse with larger torch details
- Perfect PR70 specimens are exceptionally rare
4. 1954 Proof Deep Cameo (Silver)
- Grade: PR68
- Value: $9,400
- Notable Characteristics:
- Early silver proof with strong cameo contrast
- Low mintage of only 233,300 proofs
- Represents the height of classic proof quality
What Makes These Dimes Valuable?
Three key factors determine a Roosevelt dime’s premium value:
- Strike Type
- Proofs (especially early silver proofs) > Business strikes
- Deep/Ultra Cameo contrasts command 50-100% premiums
- Grade Rarity
- MS68+ business strikes are 100x rarer than MS65
- PR69/70 proofs are exponentially more valuable than lower grades
- Variety Distinctions
- Type 1 vs Type 2 reverses (1946-1964 vs 1965-present)
- Full Band (FB) designation for sharply struck torches
Collector’s Checklist: How to Identify Premium Dimes
- For Circulation Strikes:
✓ Look for 1946-1964 silver dates
✓ Check for full separation on torch bands
✓ Seek out MS66+ grades with exceptional luster - For Proofs:
✓ Prioritize 1950-1964 silver proofs
✓ Verify cameo contrast under angled light
✓ Examine for missing mint mark errors
Market Trends & Investment Potential
Recent auction results show:
- Early silver proofs (1950-1956) have appreciated 25% annually
- Top-grade FB business strikes now sell for 3x their 2015 values
- Perfect PR70 modern proofs consistently outperform bullion values
Where to Find These Rare Dimes
- Certified Coin Dealers (PCGS/NGC authorized)
- Major Auction Houses (Heritage, Stack’s Bowers)
- Coin Shows (Look for specialist dime dealers)
- Estate Sales (Unsearched collections)
FAQ
Q: What’s the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 reverses?
A: Type 1 (1946-1964) has a smaller torch flame. Type 2 (1965+) enlarged the flame design.
Q: How many 1983 No-S proofs exist?
A: Estimates suggest 5-10 specimens, making them rarer than the famous 1975 No-S dime.
Q: Are all silver Roosevelt dimes valuable?
A: Only in high grades (MS67+/PR67+) or with FB designation. Common dates in average condition carry minimal premium.
Start Your Treasure Hunt Today
While these record-setting dimes are rare, many collectors find 100−100−1,000 specimens in inherited collections or dealer bargain bins. With this knowledge, you’re equipped to recognize hidden value in Roosevelt dimes.
Want to go deeper? Explore our guides on:
→ [Grading Roosevelt Dimes Like a Pro]
→ [Spotting Counterfeit Proof Coins]
→ [Building a Type Set of Silver Dimes]
