Since its introduction in 1946, the Roosevelt dime has been one of the most circulated coins in the United States. It was created to honor President Franklin D. Roosevelt after his death, recognizing his leadership during some of America’s toughest times – the Great Depression and World War II. Though most Roosevelt dimes are still worth just ten cents, a small number of rare editions have been sold for thousands – even millions – of dollars due to unique mint errors, extremely limited production, or pristine condition.

For coin collectors and even casual hoarders, these dimes represent a blend of history, rarity, and luck. Many have been discovered in everyday places – old piggy banks, forgotten change jars, and inherited collections. What might look like a regular dime to most could be a life-changing treasure to someone who knows what to look for.

A Quick History of the Roosevelt Dime

The Roosevelt dime replaced the Mercury dime in 1946, shortly after President Roosevelt passed away. Designed by John R. Sinnock, the dime’s obverse features a left-facing portrait of Roosevelt. The reverse showcases a torch flanked by an olive branch and an oak branch – symbols of liberty, peace, and strength.

The design has stayed consistent for decades, making subtle minting errors or rare proof strikes all the more valuable.

Why Are Some Roosevelt Dimes Worth a Fortune?

The majority of Roosevelt dimes in circulation are only worth face value. However, there are some key reasons why a handful of them are valued so highly:

• Mint errors that occurred during the coin’s production
• No-mintmark proof coins, which were not meant for circulation
• Low-mintage years, resulting in high demand and low supply
• Perfect condition, especially uncirculated or high-graded coins

These factors can turn a simple 10-cent coin into a six or even seven-figure collectible.

The 7 Ultra-Rare Roosevelt Dimes

Here’s a breakdown of the seven rare Roosevelt dimes that collectors hunt for and why they’re so valuable:

1. 1975 No-S Proof Dime
This is considered the rarest Roosevelt dime ever made. It was produced without the “S” mintmark at the San Francisco Mint. Only a couple of these have ever surfaced, and they have sold for hundreds of thousands of dollars.

2. 1968 No-S Proof Dime
Another major mint error, this proof dime lacks the “S” mintmark. It’s extremely rare, and depending on condition, it can fetch thousands at auction.

3. 1970 No-S Proof Dime
Similar to the 1968 version, the 1970 No-S dime is also a mint error proof coin without a mintmark. These have been auctioned for high five-figure prices.

4. 1982 No-P Dime
This coin was struck at the Philadelphia Mint but lacks the “P” mintmark, which should have been present. It’s one of the few circulation-strike errors ever made by the U.S. Mint.

5. 1996-W Roosevelt Dime
Issued to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Roosevelt dime, this was struck at the West Point Mint and included only in mint sets. It’s not especially rare but still highly collectible and valuable in perfect condition.

6. 1964-D Doubled Die Dime
This coin shows clear doubling on the date and some of the lettering. Because doubling errors are a favorite among collectors, this one is in high demand.

7. 1951-S Over D Dime (S Over D Mintmark)
A rare overdate error where an “S” mintmark was struck over a “D.” These coins were produced during a time when dies were repurposed and reused, making this kind of error more likely – but still very rare today.

How to Tell If You Have One

Finding one of these rare dimes requires a sharp eye and some patience. Even though the chances are slim, people have come across them by accident. Here are some things to check:

• Look for missing mintmarks, especially on proof coins
• Use a magnifying glass to check for doubled dates or letters
• Examine coin color and striking details for anything unusual
• Uncirculated or high-grade coins are more likely to be valuable
• Consider submitting the coin to a professional grading service for authentication

Where to Look

You don’t have to go treasure hunting in exotic places. Some of the best places to check for these coins include:

• Old coin jars
• Inherited coin collections
• Estate sales
• Pocket change (yes, it still happens)
• Coin shows or flea markets

Selling Rare Roosevelt Dimes

If you think you’ve found a valuable dime, avoid rushing to sell it online. Instead, have it authenticated and graded by a recognized service like PCGS or NGC. Once verified, you can sell it through:

• Trusted coin dealers
• Major auction houses
• High-profile online marketplaces (e.g., Heritage Auctions)
• Coin shows with professional buyers

Final Thoughts: Why That Dime Could Be a Goldmine

It’s easy to overlook small coins like dimes, especially when they’re so common. But as history and collector demand show, it pays – literally – to take a closer look. The Roosevelt dime may be modest in size, but in rare cases, its value is anything but small.

So before you drop that dime into a vending machine or toss it in the change bowl, take a moment to examine it. That tiny coin could be the gateway to a surprising fortune and a tangible connection to American history.

Quick Facts

• Most Roosevelt dimes are worth only 10 cents
• Rare error dimes have sold for up to $456,000
• A 1975 No-S Proof Dime is the rarest and most expensive to date
• Dimes with no mintmarks or doubling are worth checking

Keep your eyes open. You never know what treasure might be sitting quietly in your pocket.