11 High-Value Roosevelt Dimes – Since its introduction in 1946, the Roosevelt Dime has been a staple of American coinage, honoring President Franklin D. Roosevelt and his legacy. While most of these dimes are worth just ten cents, certain rare varieties and errors have turned them into collector’s goldmines, fetching thousands—or even tens of thousands—of dollars at auction.
Could you unknowingly have one of these treasures in your pocket change or coin jar? Let’s explore 11 high-value Roosevelt Dimes and how to identify them.
Table of Contents
- 1 1. 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse
- 2 2. 1975 No-S Proof
- 3 3. 1968 No-S Proof
- 4 4. 1970 No-S Proof
- 5 5. 1982 No-P Strong Strike
- 6 6. 1949-S Low Mintage Gem
- 7 7. 1996-W Mintmark Rarity
- 8 8. 1950 Proof Deep Cameo
- 9 9. 1964-D Doubled Die Reverse
- 10 10. 1951 Proof Full Bands
- 11 11. 1983 No-S Proof
- 12 How to Check Your Dimes
- 13 What’s Next?
1. 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse
One of the most coveted Roosevelt Dimes, the 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) features noticeable doubling on the date, “LIBERTY,” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” Produced at the San Francisco Mint, this error occurred when the die was misaligned during striking. In top condition, this dime can sell for $50,000 or more. Check your 1969-S dimes closely under magnification for this dramatic doubling.
2. 1975 No-S Proof
Proof coins are typically struck with precision for collectors, but the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime is a rare exception. Minted in San Francisco without the “S” mintmark, only two examples are known to exist. One sold for over $500,000 in 2019. If you have a shiny, mirror-like 1975 dime missing the “S,” you might be holding a fortune.
Also Read: 15 Valuable State Quarters That Could Be Worth a Fortune
3. 1968 No-S Proof
Another San Francisco proof error, the 1968 No-S Dime lacks its mintmark due to a minting oversight. Approximately 20 are known, and they’ve fetched prices upwards of $40,000. Look for a proof-quality 1968 dime with no “S” on the obverse (front) side.
4. 1970 No-S Proof
Continuing the trend of missing mintmarks, the 1970 No-S Proof Dime is another rarity from San Francisco. With fewer than 100 believed to exist, these can command $500 to $1,000 depending on condition. Examine your 1970 proof dimes for this subtle but valuable flaw.
5. 1982 No-P Strong Strike
In 1982, the Philadelphia Mint accidentally omitted the “P” mintmark on some dimes, creating the “No-P” variety. The “Strong Strike” version, with sharp details and no mintmark, stands out to collectors. These can sell for $200 to $300 in uncirculated condition. Check your 1982 dimes for a missing “P” and exceptional clarity.
6. 1949-S Low Mintage Gem
The 1949-S Roosevelt Dime isn’t an error, but its low mintage of 13.5 million makes it a sleeper hit. In pristine, uncirculated condition (graded MS-67 or higher), it can fetch $500 or more. Look for bright, flawless 1949-S dimes in your collection.
Also Read: 6 Rare Morgan Silver Dollars Every Collector Should Know
7. 1996-W Mintmark Rarity
The 1996-W Roosevelt Dime is unique because it’s the only circulation dime with a “W” mintmark, struck at West Point to celebrate the coin’s 50th anniversary. Included only in special Mint Sets, uncirculated examples sell for $15 to $30—modest but notable for a modern dime. Dig through your 1996 coins for that elusive “W.”
8. 1950 Proof Deep Cameo
Early proof Roosevelt Dimes, like the 1950, are prized in “Deep Cameo” condition, where the design contrasts sharply against a mirror-like field. Only 51,386 proofs were made that year, and a top-grade example can exceed $1,000. Inspect your 1950 proofs for this striking finish.
9. 1964-D Doubled Die Reverse
The 1964-D Doubled Die Reverse (DDR) shows doubling on the torch, olive branch, and “E PLURIBUS UNUM” on the back. This Denver-minted error is subtle but valuable, with high-grade specimens reaching $200 or more. A magnifying glass is your friend when hunting this one.
10. 1951 Proof Full Bands
Proof dimes from 1951 with “Full Bands” (fully separated lines on the torch) are rare and desirable. Only 57,500 proofs were minted, and a pristine Full Bands example can top $600. Check your 1951 proofs for this detail under good lighting.
11. 1983 No-S Proof
Rounding out the list is the 1983 No-S Proof Dime, another San Francisco mintmark mishap. Fewer than a dozen are confirmed, and they’ve sold for $2,000 to $5,000. Look for a proof-quality 1983 dime missing the “S” to spot this gem.
Also Read: 8 Rare Dimes And Bicentennial Quarters Valued At Million
How to Check Your Dimes
To determine if you own one of these high-value Roosevelt Dimes, grab a magnifying glass or jeweler’s loupe and examine your coins for:
- Mintmarks: Look for “S,” “D,” “P,” or “W” (or their absence) near the date.
- Doubling: Check lettering and design elements for overlapping or shadowy duplicates.
- Condition: Coins in uncirculated or proof condition are worth more.
- Proof Features: Mirror-like surfaces and sharp details indicate a proof coin.
What’s Next?
If you suspect you’ve found a rare Roosevelt Dime, consider having it professionally graded by services like PCGS or NGC. These organizations authenticate and assign a grade, significantly boosting a coin’s market value. Even if you don’t strike it rich, the thrill of the hunt makes every dime worth a second glance.