While dimes are among the most common coins in circulation today, certain specimens can be significantly more valuable than their face value. These rare and sought-after coins have captured the attention of collectors worldwide, and can fetch handsome sums at auctions. In this article, we’ll explore the top 15 most valuable dimes still in circulation, focusing on their historical context, design, and estimated values.
Historical Context
The Roosevelt Dime was introduced in 1946 to honor President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who had died the previous year. The coin bears his likeness as a tribute to his leadership during the Great Depression and World War II, as well as his role in founding the March of Dimes, a campaign to combat polio. For collectors, the Roosevelt Dime is not only a symbol of American history but also a series with numerous valuable specimens due to errors, low mintage, and special releases.
1970-S Roosevelt Dime Value Chart
The 1970-S Roosevelt Dime is notable for its scarcity in certain conditions, making it a prized find for collectors. Below is a value chart for this particular dime based on its condition:
| Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| Good | $3 – $5 |
| Fine | $5 – $10 |
| Extra Fine (XF45) | $10 – $15 |
| About Uncirculated (AU) | $15 – $25 |
| Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) | $30 – $50 |
| MS66 | $100 – $150 |
1970-S Roosevelt Dime Obverse and Reverse Design
The obverse of the 1970-S Roosevelt Dime features the profile of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, designed by John R. Sinnock. The reverse showcases a torch, symbolizing liberty, flanked by an olive branch on the left and an oak branch on the right, representing peace and strength. The coin has a reeded edge with 118 reeds.
1970-S Roosevelt Dime Composition and Physical Features
This dime is composed of a clad metal made of copper-nickel, bonded to a copper core. It weighs 2.27 grams and has a diameter of 17.91 mm. Despite its common appearance, certain factors can make this dime highly valuable to collectors.
Rare Issues and Error Coins
Rare error coins and special issues contribute to the value of certain Roosevelt Dimes. For instance, the 1970-S Proof Dime is known for its “No S” error, where the mintmark is missing. Such coins can be worth thousands of dollars, depending on their condition.
How to Identify a Valuable 1970-S Roosevelt Dime
To identify a valuable 1970-S Roosevelt Dime, examine the coin for signs of wear and any potential mint errors. Look for missing mintmarks or doubled features. A magnifying glass or coin microscope can aid in this process. Additionally, consulting with a professional numismatist can help confirm a coin’s authenticity and value.
Other Valuable Roosevelt Dimes
1968-S Roosevelt Dime Proof “No S”
This proof dime from 1968 is notable for the absence of the “S” mintmark. Such specimens are extremely rare and can command high prices at auction.
| Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| Proof | $10,000 – $15,000 |
1975-S Roosevelt Dime Proof “No S”
Another valuable proof dime is the 1975-S, which similarly lacks the “S” mintmark. This error makes it one of the most sought-after coins by collectors.
| Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| Proof | $300,000 – $500,000 |
1982 No Mintmark Dime
The 1982 dime is unique due to its lack of a mintmark, which was inadvertently omitted during production. It is a valuable error coin for collectors.
| Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| MS66 | $200 – $300 |
1983 No Mintmark Dime
Similar to the 1982 version, the 1983 dime missing its mintmark is another significant error that increases its value considerably.
| Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| MS66 | $150 – $250 |
1996-W Roosevelt Dime
The 1996-W dime was issued to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Roosevelt dime and is the only dime with a “W” mintmark, released only in mint sets.
| Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| MS66 | $30 – $50 |
1976-S Roosevelt Dime Proof
This special Bicentennial issue proof dime is another valuable piece for collectors, especially when found in pristine condition.
| Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| Proof | $20 – $40 |
1979-D Roosevelt Dime With Broadstrike Error
A broadstrike error occurs when a coin is struck outside its retaining collar, resulting in a larger and flatter coin. This error significantly increases the value of a 1979-D Roosevelt Dime.
| Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| MS63 | $100 – $150 |
1980-P Roosevelt Dime Off-Center Error
Off-center errors occur when a coin is not properly aligned with the die during striking. An off-center 1980-P dime can be worth significantly more than its face value.
| Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| MS63 | $100 – $200 |
1984-P Roosevelt Dime with Double Die Obverse
The 1984-P dime with a doubled die obverse is another exciting find for collectors, where the design elements are doubled, adding unique appeal and value.
| Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| MS66 | $200 – $300 |
1999-P Roosevelt Dime with Reverse Die Clash
This error occurs when the obverse and reverse dies clash without a planchet in between, leaving impressions on both sides. This error makes the 1999-P dime highly collectible.
| Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| MS65 | $150 – $250 |
2000-P Roosevelt Dime with Missing Edge Lettering
Coins with missing edge lettering are rare and highly valued, making this 2000-P dime a notable collector’s item.
| Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| MS65 | $100 – $200 |
2004-D Roosevelt Dime with Clipped Planchet
A clipped planchet error occurs when a coin blank is improperly cut, resulting in a coin with a missing segment. This error increases the value of the 2004-D dime.
| Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| MS63 | $100 – $150 |
2005-D Roosevelt Dime with Die Break
Die breaks, or cuds, occur when a piece of the die breaks away, resulting in raised metal on the coin’s surface. This error makes the 2005-D dime an attractive find for collectors.
| Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| MS64 | $120 – $200 |