Finding a rare dime in your spare change is like hitting a small jackpot. Some U.S. Dime are valuable due to unique minting errors, while others are prized because of their unusual mint origins. In this article, we’ll explore four of these rare dimes that might just be hiding in your pocket, each with its own story and significant value for collectors.
1975 No S Proof Dime
The 1975 No S Proof Dime is one of the rarest coins around. Normally, proof dimes from the San Francisco Mint have an “S” mintmark, but a small number from this year were mistakenly minted without it. Only a few examples exist, and this error has made the 1975 No S Proof Dime a major collector’s item, sometimes selling for more than $500,000.
1968 No S Proof Dime
Another rare error coin is the 1968 No S Proof Dime. Like the 1975 dime, this one also lacks the “S” mintmark. It was supposed to be a proof coin, specifically made for collectors, but a few of these coins left the San Francisco Mint without the mintmark. As a result, the 1968 No S Proof Dime can be worth up to $20,000 today.
Rare Dimes
| Coin Name | Year of Mint | Estimated Value | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1975 No S Proof Dime | 1975 | $500,000+ | Missing “S” mintmark |
| 1968 No S Proof Dime | 1968 | $20,000+ | Missing “S” mintmark |
| 1982 No P Dime | 1982 | $500+ | Missing “P” mintmark |
| 1996-W Roosevelt Dime | 1996 | $50+ | West Point mintmark |
1982 No P Dime
The 1982 No P Dime is unique because it was minted without the “P” mintmark, a first for coins from the Philadelphia Mint. Typically, all Philadelphia coins carry a “P” mintmark, but this was left off by mistake. The 1982 No P Dime has become a collector’s favorite and can sell for $500 or more, especially in good condition.
1996-W Roosevelt Dime
The 1996-W Roosevelt Dime is special due to its “W” mintmark, indicating it was made at the West Point Mint. Released to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Roosevelt dime series, this coin wasn’t an error but was still unique. While not as rare as the others, it can sell for $50 or more, especially when well-preserved.
Conclusion
If you’ve got a dime with a unique feature, you might have something worth much more than ten cents. From missing mintmarks to special releases, these rare dimes hold both historical and financial value. Take a closer look at your change—you could be holding a rare treasure without even realizing it!
FAQ’s
Why are some dimes missing their mintmarks?
Missing mintmarks on these rare dimes were usually accidental, resulting in a few highly valuable coins that collectors love to find.
Where can I sell a rare dime if I find one?
You can sell rare dimes at coin shops, online marketplaces, or through auction houses that specialize in coins.
How can I identify a 1982 No P Dime?
Check if the dime has no mintmark near the date on the front (heads) side of the coin. If there’s no “P,” it may be the valuable error coin.