Why 1972 Dimes Are Special
Most 1972 Roosevelt dimes are worth face value—but one ultra-rare error has sold for $45,000+! Here’s why collectors are obsessed:
- Three Mints, One Mistake: In 1972, dimes were struck in Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (“D”), and San Francisco (“S”).
- Proof vs. Circulation: San Francisco made special mirror-finish “proof” coins for collectors—but a critical error slipped through!
- The Million-Dollar Flaw: A few proof dimes were struck without the “S” mint mark—creating one of the most valuable modern U.S. errors!
The $45,000 Coin: 1972 ‘No S’ Proof Dime
Your image shows a regular 1972 dime, but the real treasure is the 1972 ‘No S’ Proof:
Must Be a Proof Coin (mirror-like background, frosted details)
Must Have NO “S” Mint Mark above the date
Top-Graded Examples (PR67+) have sold for $45,000+
Warning: This error ONLY exists on proof coins—not regular circulation dimes!
How to Spot the ‘No S’ Error (Step-by-Step)
1. CHECK IF IT’S A PROOF COIN
- Proofs have:
- A mirror-like shine on the flat surfaces
- Frosted details (Roosevelt’s portrait, lettering)
- Circulation coins (like your photo):
- Dull or worn surfaces
- No extreme contrast between fields and design
2. INSPECT THE MINT MARK AREA
- Where to look: Directly above the “72” in the date
- Error: NO “S” mint mark (should be there on all proofs!)
3. BONUS: Check for Doubling (Less Valuable but Still Cool!)
- Area: The motto “IN GOD WE TRUST”
- Look for: Slight doubling in the letters (minor DDO variety)
Use a 10x magnifier! The differences are tiny but critical.
How to Cash In If You Find One
- Get It Graded:
Only PCGS or NGC certification will maximize value. - Never Clean It!
Even fingerprints can hurt its grade. - Sell Smart:
Auction houses like Heritage Auctions get top dollar for rare errors.
Key Tips to Avoid Mistakes
Proof or Bust! The ‘No S’ error does NOT exist on regular dimes.
No “S” = Potential Fortune (but only if it’s a proof!)
Weight Doesn’t Matter – This error is about the missing mint mark, not metal content.
Why This Error Is a Collector’s Dream
- Extremely Rare: Only a handful confirmed by PCGS/NGC.
- Blue-Chip Error: Stable value, always in demand.
- Certification is a Must: Raw (ungraded) coins sell for far less.
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Grab your 1972 dimes and start checking—you might be sitting on a life-changing find! 
