Coins have always fascinated collectors, especially those with rare features or errors. One such rare coin, the 1975 Roosevelt dime missing the “S” mint mark, recently made headlines by selling for over $500,000 at auction. This article explores the story of this coin, its significance, and its journey through time.
The 1975 ‘No S’ Proof Dime: A Numismatic Rarity
In 1975, the U.S. Mint produced a large number of proof sets, each containing a variety of coins, including the Roosevelt dime. Normally, these proof coins are made with a high-quality finish and include an “S” mint mark, showing they were made in San Francisco. However, due to an error, at least two dimes were produced without this mint mark, making them extremely rare. These are known as the 1975 ‘No S’ Proof Dimes, and they are highly sought after by collectors.
Discovery and Provenance
The journey of this particular dime began in 1978 when an Ohio family bought the coin for $18,200. Back then, the coin was viewed as a financial safety net. The family kept the coin safe in a bank vault for more than four decades. When the family’s brother passed away, the coin was passed down to his three sisters, who didn’t know its current market value. Deciding to auction the dime, they put it back into the public eye.
The Auction and Sale
The rare dime was sold through GreatCollections, a well-known auction house specializing in rare coins. The online auction took place in October 2024, and the coin was sold for an astonishing $506,250 after receiving over 200 bids. This auction sale set a new record for the company, highlighting the immense value and rarity of this specific coin.
Historical Context and Significance
The missing “S” mint mark on this dime isn’t the only error of its kind. Similar minting mistakes have occurred with other coins, such as the 1968 and 1970 ‘No S’ Proof Dimes, and even a 1971 ‘No S’ Proof Jefferson Nickel. These rare error coins are highly valued in the numismatic world due to their rarity and the interesting backstories behind their creation.
Comparative Analysis of Rare Error Coins
| Coin Type | Year | Mint Mark Error | Auction Sale Price | Date of Sale |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1975 ‘No S’ Proof Dime | 1975 | Missing ‘S’ | $506,250 | Oct 2024 |
| 1968 ‘No S’ Proof Dime | 1968 | Missing ‘S’ | $48,300 | Jan 2019 |
| 1970 ‘No S’ Proof Dime | 1970 | Missing ‘S’ | $31,200 | Aug 2018 |
| 1971 ‘No S’ Proof Jefferson Nickel | 1971 | Missing ‘S’ | $20,000 | Mar 2017 |
The Allure of Error Coins
Error coins like the 1975 ‘No S’ Proof Dime are especially attractive to collectors because they are rare and come with unique stories. These coins often arise from mistakes made during production, making them a special piece of history for any coin collector.
Conclusion
The sale of the 1975 ‘No S’ Proof Dime for more than $500,000 shows how valuable rare coins can be, especially when they are linked to historical errors. The coin’s incredible journey from a family heirloom to a record-breaking auction item proves that there is a lot of interest and value in numismatic treasures.
FAQ’s
Why is the 1975 ‘No S’ Proof Dime so valuable?
The 1975 ‘No S’ Proof Dime is rare because it was mistakenly struck without the “S” mint mark, which is a key feature for coins made in San Francisco.
How much did the 1975 ‘No S’ Proof Dime sell for?
The coin was sold for $506,250 at an auction in October 2024 after receiving over 200 bids.
Are there other error coins like the 1975 ‘No S’ Proof Dime?
Yes, other error coins, such as the 1968 and 1970 ‘No S’ Proof Dimes, are also valuable and highly sought after by collectors.