Roosevelt Dime: Most of us use dimes daily without giving them a second thought. But did you know that one rare version of the 1982 Roosevelt Dime without a mint mark is worth up to $385,000? That’s right—this little coin could be a hidden treasure in your pocket change or coin jar. But how can you tell if you’ve got the right one?
In this article, we’ll walk you through exactly what to look for, why this dime is so valuable, and how to make sure yours is the real deal.
Why the 1982 No-Mint Roosevelt Dime Is Special
Typically, U.S. coins include a mint mark indicating where they were made. For dimes, the mint marks are usually:
In 1982, Roosevelt dimes struck at the Philadelphia Mint were supposed to include a “P” mint mark, as they had since 1980. But due to a rare error, some of these dimes were struck without any mint mark at all.
These are known as 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dimes, and they are extremely rare—especially in uncirculated condition. One of these coins, in pristine condition, sold for $385,000 at auction.
Key Features to Identify the Valuable 1982 No-Mint Dime
Here’s a simple guide to help you identify whether your 1982 dime is the rare one:
| Feature | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Year | 1982 |
| Mint Mark | No mint mark (no “P”, “D”, or “S” visible on the coin) |
| Location of Mint Mark | Normally found to the right of Roosevelt’s neck |
| Condition | Best value is in uncirculated or mint state (MS-65 or higher) |
| Material | Clad composition (not silver) — copper core with a nickel coating |
| Weight | Approx. 2.27 grams (standard for Roosevelt dimes) |
Steps to Check If You Have the 1982 No-Mint Dime
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Look at the Front (Obverse)
Examine the right side of Roosevelt’s neck. This is where the mint mark would typically appear. If it’s blank, continue inspecting. -
Check the Year
Make sure the date on the coin reads 1982. -
Inspect Condition
Use a magnifying glass or jeweler’s loupe to check for scratches, dings, and wear. A coin in near-perfect condition is far more valuable. -
Weigh the Coin
A precise scale should show around 2.27 grams. Too much variation may indicate the coin is fake or damaged. -
Compare with Known Examples
Look up images of the 1982 No-P dime online or in collector’s catalogs to cross-check.
Why It’s Worth So Much
The value of this coin boils down to rarity and demand. Only a few were made due to a die error where the mint mark was left off. Since this was quickly corrected, only a limited number entered circulation. Coin collectors place high value on such mistakes, especially when the coin is in excellent condition.
The $385,000 sale was for a graded MS-68 coin—nearly flawless. Lesser-quality coins may fetch hundreds or thousands of dollars, but condition is everything in numismatics (coin collecting).
What to Do If You Think You Have One
If you believe you’ve found a 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime, follow these steps:
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Don’t clean it! Cleaning can reduce its value dramatically.
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Put it in a coin flip or protective sleeve to avoid further damage.
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Contact a professional coin grader such as PCGS or NGC.
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Get it appraised at a reputable coin dealer or collector’s show.
Once authenticated and graded, you can choose to keep it or sell it—possibly for thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars.
FAQs About the 1982 No-Mint Roosevelt Dime
Q: Is every 1982 dime without a mint mark valuable?
A: No. Only the ones struck in Philadelphia without a mint mark and in excellent condition are valuable. Others may just be worn-down regular dimes.
Q: Where is the mint mark usually located on a Roosevelt dime?
A: To the right of Roosevelt’s neck, near the rim of the coin.
Q: Can I find one in circulation today?
A: It’s extremely rare, but yes, some have been found in circulation.
Q: How do I get a coin graded?
A: You can send your coin to a third-party grading service like PCGS or NGC after registering and paying a fee.
Q: What does “MS” mean in coin grading?
A: “MS” stands for Mint State. The higher the number (up to 70), the better the condition.
Final Thought
The 1982 No-Mint Roosevelt Dime proves that treasures can still be found in everyday places. With just a bit of knowledge and a careful eye, you could uncover a small fortune hiding in plain sight. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious beginner, it’s always worth checking your change—you never know what’s waiting to be discovered.
