The incredible values associated with “million-dollar dimes” usually refer to non-Roosevelt dimes like the 1894-S Barber Dime (auctioned for over $1 million) or the 1873-CC Seated Liberty Dime. However, the most valuable Roosevelt Dimes listed below are considered the “Holy Grail” of modern U.S. coinage and have sold for astronomical prices.
👑 The Million-Dollar Rarity: Missing Mint Marks
These two error coins are proofs—coins made specifically for collectors with a high-quality, mirrored finish—that were mistakenly struck without the “S” mint mark that denotes the San Francisco Mint. Their extreme rarity makes them the most valuable Roosevelt Dimes ever found.
1. 1975 “No S” Proof Roosevelt Dime
This is, without a doubt, the most valuable modern U.S. coin.
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The Error:Â Proof dimes from San Francisco should bear an “S” mint mark. Due to a spectacular mint error, a tiny number were struck without it.
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Rarity and Value: Only two examples are known to exist. One example sold at auction in 2019 for $456,000, and the other, the “Ruth E.” specimen, set a new record by fetching $506,250 in 2024.
2. 1968 “No S” Proof Roosevelt Dime
This was the first proof coin to be accidentally struck without the “S” mint mark.
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The Error:Â Similar to the 1975 error, the die for this proof coin was accidentally shipped to San Francisco without the “S” mint mark.
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Rarity and Value: Only a few dozen examples are known to have survived. A high-grade example (PR67) sold for over $40,000 in 2008, with one coin reaching nearly $49,000.
🥈 High-Value Errors and Varieties
These dimes are also extremely rare and valuable, reaching tens of thousands of dollars for the finest examples.
3. 1965 Struck on a 90% Silver Planchet
This coin is a transitional error from a major change in U.S. coinage.
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The Error:Â In 1965, the U.S. Mint transitioned from striking 90% silver dimes to the copper-nickel clad composition. A few leftover 90% silver planchets from 1964 were mistakenly struck with 1965 dies.
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How to Spot: Silver dimes weigh 2.5 grams (vs. 2.27g for clad) and lack the copper edge.
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Value: An example of this error has sold for $8,625.
4. 1949 Full Band (FB) Business Strike
This silver dime’s value comes from its low mintage and exceptionally sharp detail.
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The Feature: The reverse of the Roosevelt Dime features a torch (fasces) with three horizontal bands. A “Full Band” (FB) designation means those bands are sharply defined and fully separated—a rare occurrence on this date.
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Rarity and Value: This is one of the rarest regular-issue coins in the series. A 1949 Full Band example has sold for $13,200.
5. 1999-D Struck on a Cent Planchet
A spectacular modern error where the wrong metal was used.
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The Error: This Denver-minted dime was mistakenly struck on a copper cent planchet (blank coin).
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How to Spot:Â The coin will have a reddish tone, a slightly thinner strike, and an expanded, smooth edge instead of the usual reeding.
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Value: An example sold for $6,325.
6. 1946-S Doubled Die Reverse (DDR)
A noticeable variety from the early silver years of the series.
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The Error: The details on the reverse appear clearly doubled, particularly on the flame of the torch and the oak and olive branches.
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Value: This dime can fetch anywhere from $40 in good condition to over $500 in mint state. A high-grade example (MS68FB) sold for $5,819.
7. 1982-P “No Mint Mark”
This error is common, but still highly collectible in great condition.
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The Error: In 1982, the Philadelphia Mint mistakenly failed to add the “P” mint mark to a large number of regular-issue business strikes.
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Value: Most are worth a few hundred dollars, but a high-grade example (MS68) has sold for $2,185.
💰 Always Check for Silver!
The easiest way to find a valuable Roosevelt Dime is by checking the date: all Roosevelt Dimes dated 1964 and earlier are composed of 90% silver. These are instantly worth more than their face value, typically commanding around $2–$5 each, even when worn, due to their metal content.
The ultimate value of any coin—especially error coins—is heavily dependent on its condition (grade). Uncirculated (Mint State) coins with sharp details and no wear are the most desired and command the highest prices.
