A Dime That’s Worth a Fortune
Imagine nearly spending a dime that’s worth almost a million dollars. That’s what happened to a man in Ohio who almost used a rare Roosevelt dime at a convenience store in July 2025. This 1969-S Roosevelt dime, now valued at $920,000, caught the attention of collectors after it was identified as a rare variety. Coin experts say similar dimes could be hiding in your pocket change, making it worth checking those coins before you spend them.
Why Some Roosevelt Dimes Are So Valuable
Roosevelt dimes, minted since 1946 to honor President Franklin D. Roosevelt, are common, but certain ones are extremely rare due to minting errors or low production. The 1969-S dime, for example, is valuable because of its “no mint mark” error, where the San Francisco mint mark is missing or faint. Another rare version is the 1975 “No S” proof dime, with only two known examples, one of which sold for $925,000 at a 2025 auction. Coins in pristine condition, especially uncirculated or proof versions, fetch the highest prices among collectors.
How to Spot a Valuable Dime
You don’t need to be a coin expert to find a valuable Roosevelt dime. Here’s what to look for:
- Check the date and mint mark on the front, near Roosevelt’s portrait.
- Look for missing or faint mint marks, especially on 1969-S or 1975 dimes.
- Examine the coin’s condition: shiny, uncirculated coins are worth more.
- Check for errors like doubled letters or numbers, known as “double die” varieties.
- Compare your coin to images on trusted sites like PCGS.com or NGCcoin.com.
If you find a suspicious dime, take it to a professional coin dealer for appraisal.
Recent Auction Highlights
Rare Roosevelt dimes have been making headlines in 2025. Here’s a look at some recent sales:
| Coin Description | Year | Condition | Sale Price | Auction Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1969-S No Mint Mark | 1969 | Near Mint | $920,000 | July 2025 |
| 1975 No S Proof | 1975 | Proof | $925,000 | June 2025 |
| 1968 No S Proof | 1968 | Proof | $600,000 | May 2025 |
Avoiding Scams and Fake Coins
With rare coins grabbing attention, scammers are trying to cash in by selling fake or overvalued dimes. Be wary of online sellers or unsolicited offers promising huge payouts. Always verify a coin’s authenticity through a reputable grading service like PCGS or NGC before selling. Never share personal details with unverified buyers, and report suspicious activity to the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov. Checking auction results on sites like Heritage Auctions can also help you understand a coin’s true value.
What to Do If You Find a Rare Dime
If you think you’ve got a valuable Roosevelt dime, don’t spend it or clean it, as cleaning can lower its value. Store it in a plastic coin holder to protect it, and contact a trusted coin dealer or auction house for an appraisal. You can also use online resources like CoinTrackers.com to estimate its worth. With collectors paying big money for rare dimes in 2025, that small change in your pocket could turn into a life-changing windfall. So, grab your magnifying glass and start checking your coins today.
