Roosevelt dimes have remained a consistent part of U.S. coinage with very minimal changes in design, which makes them both easily recognizable and collectible.
Especially in higher grades, some Roosevelt dimes from the 1980s are surprisingly valuable—often due to low quality control by the U.S. Mint during that era. Let’s dive into what makes these dimes special and which five from the 1980s are the most sought-after.
What Makes a Roosevelt Dime Valuable?
In order to qualify as a high-value Roosevelt dime, collectors need to look for coins with a full strike on the reverse. Specifically, a valuable dime will have:
- Fully defined and separated lines on both the top and bottom sets of bands on the torch.
- Well-defined vertical lines on the fasces (the sticks around the torch).
- A sharp, complete bottom line on the torch.
These features, commonly referred to as “full bands”, are crucial for commanding top dollar. Coins that exhibit these characteristics are often submitted to third-party grading companies like PCGS or NGC for professional certification. Once graded, they can be marketed through major platforms such as Heritage Auctions, GreatCollections, Stack’s Bowers, or even eBay.
The Investment in Cherry-Picking and Flipping
Finding these coins is a mix of skill, luck, and patience. Often referred to as “cherry-picking,” collectors search through pocket change, coin rolls, mint sets, or dealer inventory looking for these rare full-band dimes. After a successful find, submitting them for grading requires a small financial investment, but it can pay off handsomely if the coin receives a high grade.
Now, let’s explore the top five Roosevelt dimes from the 1980s that are worth serious money.
#5 – 1982-P Roosevelt Dime
The 1982-P Roosevelt dime is one of the most desirable dates in the decade. While the 1982 also comes with a missing mintmark variation, this list only considers business strike, non-proof coins—the types typically found in circulation or mint sets.
- Top Grade Found: MS67+
- Estimated Value: ~$3,000
This date boasts one of the highest-graded examples in the series and is definitely worth hunting for in high grade with full bands.
#4 – 1983-P Roosevelt Dime
The 1983-P takes the number four slot. It’s a rare date largely because no official mint sets were produced in 1982 and 1983, making high-grade examples more difficult to find.
- Top Grade Found: MS67 (with Full Bands)
- Estimated Value: ~$1,750
Due to its relative scarcity, a higher grade like MS67+ could easily push this coin’s value beyond $3,000.
#3 – 1983-D Roosevelt Dime
A close cousin to the 1983-P, the 1983-D Roosevelt dime is even more valuable at the highest known grade level.
- Top Grade Found: MS67 (with Full Bands)
- Estimated Value: ~$2,150
This coin is extremely difficult to find with full bands and is a standout piece in any Roosevelt dime collection from this era.
#2 – 1980-D Roosevelt Dime
Coming in at number two is the 1980-D Roosevelt dime. This coin is extremely tough to locate with full bands due to weak strikes, which were common for that year.
- Top Grade Found: MS66 (with Full Bands)
- Estimated Value: ~$2,200
A find of MS67 with full bands could push the value to $4,000 or more. Its potential upside makes it one of the most exciting coins to look for.
SSDI Payments Cut Off? New $1,620 Monthly Limit Shocks Recipients!
#1 – 1980-P Roosevelt Dime
Topping the list is the 1980-P Roosevelt dime, which is extremely rare in higher grades with a full strike. Even at a modest grade like MS64, this coin commands impressive figures.
- Top Grade Found: MS64 (with Full Bands)
- Estimated Value: ~$1,250
What makes this coin remarkable is that there are no known examples in MS65 or higher with full bands. Should a MS67 example ever surface, it could easily exceed $10,000, making it the most valuable Roosevelt dime of the modern clad era.
If you found this guide helpful, don’t forget to share it with fellow collectors and coin enthusiasts—you never know who might have a hidden gem in their change!
Final Thoughts
If you’re coin roll hunting, searching through change, or visiting a local dealer or show, keep this list in mind. The right Roosevelt dime with full bands could turn into a four-figure payday with the right grade. The Mint did strike some stunning examples—it’s just a matter of finding them. Happy hunting, and may you find one of these hidden gems in the wild!
FAQs
Q1: What are “full bands” on a Roosevelt dime?
Full bands refer to the complete and distinct separation of lines on the torch bands found on the reverse of Roosevelt dimes.
Q2: Where can I find valuable Roosevelt dimes?
You can search in pocket change, coin rolls, mint sets, or even at local dealers and coin shows for high-grade dimes.
Q3: Do I need to grade my dime to sell it for top value?
Yes, submitting it to PCGS or NGC is essential for authentication and value maximization in the collector market.
Q4: Why are 1980s Roosevelt dimes hard to find in high grade?
Poor strike quality and lack of mint sets in certain years make high-grade, full-band dimes from this decade scarce and valuable.
