When it comes to valuable coins, Roosevelt dimes might not be the first ones that come to mind. But over the years, some rare Roosevelt dimes have become highly sought-after collectibles. If you’re lucky enough to have one of these dimes, you could be looking at a significant payday. Here’s a list of 10 rare Roosevelt dimes that could be worth a lot of money.
1. 1949-S Roosevelt Dime
The 1949-S Roosevelt dime is one of the key dates for collectors. Minted in San Francisco, this coin is valuable, especially when found in high grades. The coin is worth significantly more than face value when it’s in near-mint condition, often fetching prices in the hundreds or thousands of dollars.
2. 1955 Doubled Die Obverse
This Roosevelt dime is highly coveted due to a minting error that caused the obverse, or front side, to appear doubled. This doubling is especially noticeable on the words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” Because of its rarity, this error coin can command prices ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on its condition.
3. 1951-S Roosevelt Dime
The 1951-S dime, minted in San Francisco, is another coin that can fetch high prices when found in pristine condition. While common examples aren’t particularly valuable, well-preserved dimes with no visible wear are highly desirable to collectors.
4. 1964-D Silver Roosevelt Dime with Full Torch Bands
While 1964 was the last year dimes were made with silver content, the Denver-minted coins with fully defined torch bands on the reverse (known as “full bands”) are especially valuable. Coins in excellent condition with these detailed bands can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
5. 1982 No Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime
In 1982, the U.S. Mint accidentally produced a batch of dimes without a mint mark (typically a “P” for Philadelphia). This error makes the 1982 No Mint Mark dimes highly collectible. Even circulated examples can bring in hundreds of dollars, while pristine versions fetch much more.
6. 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime
Proof coins are produced with extra care and are generally more detailed. The 1975 No-S proof dime is one of the rarest and most valuable Roosevelt dimes in existence because it was supposed to have an “S” mint mark for San Francisco. With only a few known examples, this coin can sell for tens of thousands of dollars.
7. 1968 No-S Proof Dime
Similar to the 1975 No-S, the 1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt dime was a mistake by the San Francisco Mint. These coins are extremely rare and sought after by serious collectors. Prices can easily reach several thousand dollars.
8. 1950-S Roosevelt Dime
Although not as rare as some coins on this list, the 1950-S dime becomes valuable in higher grades. Well-preserved examples, particularly those with a sharp strike, are worth hundreds of dollars.
9. 1996-W Roosevelt Dime
In 1996, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Roosevelt dime, the West Point Mint produced a special “W” mint-marked dime. Although not as rare as others, it was the only circulation strike from West Point and is popular among collectors. It can be worth significantly more than face value.
10. 1946 Double Die Obverse
This 1946 Roosevelt dime features doubling on the obverse, making it another example of a valuable error coin. Depending on its condition and clarity of the doubling, it can sell for several hundred dollars or more.
Conclusion
Roosevelt dimes might seem ordinary, but some rare examples can fetch impressive sums. If you have a collection of coins or a jar of change, it’s worth taking a closer look. With key features like doubling, missing mint marks, or rare mintages, you could be holding a coin worth far more than ten cents.
FAQs
1. How can I tell if I have a rare Roosevelt dime?
Rare Roosevelt dimes often have distinguishing features such as minting errors (e.g., missing mint marks, doubling) or are from limited production years.
2. Are all silver Roosevelt dimes valuable?
Not all silver Roosevelt dimes are considered rare or highly valuable. Those minted before 1965 contain 90% silver and have intrinsic value due to the metal content.
3. Where can I sell a rare Roosevelt dime?
You can sell rare Roosevelt dimes through online auction sites like eBay, reputable coin dealers, or coin shows.