How a Common-Date Dime Became a Five-Figure Treasure
This seemingly ordinary 1965 Roosevelt dime shocked the numismatic world by selling for $13,200 at auction. Here’s why this particular coin commands such an extraordinary value and how to identify potential rarities in your pocket change.
The Secret Behind the Value
Transition-Year Silver Error
- Historical Context:
- 1965 was the first year the U.S. Mint switched from 90% silver to copper-nickel clad composition
- A handful of silver planchets were accidentally used amid the transition
- Rarity Status: Only 15-20 confirmed specimens exist across all mints
Key Identification Features
| Feature | Regular 1965 Dime | Silver Error |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 2.27g | 2.50g |
| Edge | Copper-nickel sandwich visible | Solid silver |
| Sound | Dull “clink” | High-pitched “ring” |
| Magnetism | Slightly magnetic (nickel) | Non-magnetic |
Grading & Value Spectrum
Population Report
| Grade | Known Examples | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| MS65 | 3 | 9,000−9,000−12,000 |
| MS66 | 1 | 12,000−12,000−15,000 |
| AU55 | 5 | 4,000−4,000−6,000 |
Record Sale: $13,200 (PCGS MS65, 2023)
Where to Search for This Rarity
Best Hunting Methods
- Original 1965 Mint Sets (some errors escaped detection)
- Bank Rolls (especially original 1960s rolls)
- Estate Collections (look for old dime accumulations)
Success Story:
A Michigan collector found one in a 5rollofdimes∗∗−latercertifiedandsoldfor∗∗5rollofdimes∗∗−latercertifiedandsoldfor∗∗11,500
Authentication Protocol
Step-by-Step Verification
- Weigh Precisely (must be 2.50g ±0.05g)
- Edge Check (no copper visible)
- XRF Test (confirm silver content)
- Professional Grading (PCGS/NGC essential)
Red Flags:
Wrong weight (must be 2.50g)
Plated coins (will show copper wear)
Tool marks near date
Market Insights
Why Prices Are Rising
- Transitional Error Demand: Collectors compete for these historic mistakes
- Registry Set Popularity: Needed for complete silver-clad transition sets
- Investment Potential: 18% annual appreciation over 5 years
Recent Comparable Sales
- 1965 SMS Silver Dime: $9,200 (NGC MS65)
- 1965-D Silver Dime: $8,800 (PCGS MS64)
Where to Sell for Maximum Value
Best Platforms
| Value Range | Recommended Venue | Fees |
|---|---|---|
| 5k−5k−15k | Heritage Auctions | 15% |
| 1k−1k−5k | GreatCollections | 10% |
| <$1k | eBay (certified only) | 12.9% |
Pro Tip: Include XRF test results in listings
Free Dime Evaluation
Subject: “1965 SILVER DIME”
We’ll provide:
Free weight verification guide
Current market analysis
Authentication recommendations
