It may sound unbelievable, but one incredibly rare dime from 1975 has fetched nearly $1 million at auction—and similar coins might still be out there in circulation.
A Look at the Roosevelt Dime
First released in 1946, the Roosevelt Dime was created to honor President Franklin D. Roosevelt. His leadership during the Great Depression and World War II, along with his support for the March of Dimes polio campaign, inspired this tribute.
Designed by John R. Sinnock, the dime displays Roosevelt’s profile on the front and a torch with olive and oak branches on the back—representing liberty, peace, and strength.
The 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime: Why It’s So Valuable
The incredible worth of this dime comes from a rare minting error. In 1975, proof dimes made at the San Francisco Mint were supposed to carry an “S” mint mark. But a few coins were accidentally struck without this identifier.
These error coins—now known as the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dimes—are extremely scarce. Only two are confirmed to exist, making them prized finds for collectors.
Record-Breaking Auction Sales
- 2019: One 1975 No-S dime sold for $456,000.
- 2024: The second known specimen went for $506,250.
- 2025: Reports suggest another similar dime was appraised at $957,000, though exact details remain confidential.
These figures highlight how rare mint errors can become million-dollar discoveries.
How to Spot a Rare Roosevelt Dime
Think you might have a valuable coin? Here’s what to check:
- Examine the Date: Look specifically for dimes dated 1975.
- Check the Mint Mark: The mint mark is located above the date. A missing “S” on a proof coin may indicate extreme rarity.
- Look at the Finish: Proof coins have a shiny, mirror-like surface and sharp details.
- Get Expert Help: If you suspect your dime is rare, send it to a trusted coin grader like PCGS or NGC.
Other Valuable Roosevelt Dimes to Watch For
| Year | Mint Mark | Key Detail | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1968 | No S | Proof coin missing mint mark | $45,600 |
| 1982 | No P | Circulation coin without mint mark | $1,000+ |
| 1996 | W | West Point issue with low mintage | Varies |
Even if you don’t find a 1975 No-S dime, several other Roosevelt Dimes can still be worth serious money.
Coin Grading: Why Condition Matters
A coin’s condition can make or break its value. Coins are graded on a scale from 1 to 70—the higher the number, the better the preservation. For rare coins, top grades can dramatically boost value.
Finding a $957,000 dime in your change may seem far-fetched, but it’s proof that valuable treasures can be hiding in plain sight. With a careful eye, you might just stumble upon one of numismatics’ rarest gems.
FAQs
What makes the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime so rare?
It’s a proof coin mistakenly struck without the “S” mint mark. Only two are known to exist, making it extremely rare.
Where is the mint mark located on Roosevelt Dimes?
The mint mark is just above the date on the front (obverse) of the dime, typically a letter like “S,” “P,” or “D.”
How do I know if my 1975 dime is a proof coin?
Proof coins have a mirror-like shine and sharp details. If it lacks an “S” and has this finish, it may be a rare find.
Can circulated Roosevelt Dimes be valuable too?
Yes, circulated dimes like the 1982 No-P error coin can still be valuable due to rare minting mistakes.