Top 9 Most Valuable Dime Coin Errors in Circulation: Dime coin errors are some of the most fascinating and valuable discoveries for collectors and everyday people alike. While most dimes are worth just ten cents, certain minting errors can turn them into treasures worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. These errors can include double strikes, off-center minting, misprints, and rare die varieties, making them highly desirable among numismatists.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 9 most valuable dime coin errors still in circulation, what makes them special, and how much they’re worth.
Table of Contents
- 1 1969 No-S Roosevelt Dime
- 2 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime
- 3 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime
- 4 1942/1 Mercury Dime
- 5 1964-D Doubled Die Reverse Dime
- 6 1996-W Roosevelt Dime with Missing Mintmark
- 7 1970-S Proof Roosevelt Dime
- 8 1999 Broadstruck Roosevelt Dime
- 9 2000-P Dime with Missing Clad Layer
- 10 How to Spot a Valuable Dime Error
- 11 Where to Sell a Valuable Dime Error
- 12 Table – Top 9 Most Valuable Dime Coin Errors in Circulation
1969 No-S Roosevelt Dime
One of the rarest dime errors, the 1969 No-S Roosevelt Dime was mistakenly minted without the “S” mintmark on proof coins struck at the San Francisco Mint. Since proof coins are meant for collectors, this error is incredibly rare.
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- Why It’s Valuable: Only a few exist, making it a prized collector’s item.
- Value: $30,000+ in high-grade condition.
1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime
The 1982 No-P Dime is the first and only time a Philadelphia Mint coin was accidentally struck without a mintmark. Normally, dimes from this mint have a “P”, but a mistake led to some being released without it.
- Why It’s Valuable: It’s a major mint error from modern coinage.
- Value: $500 – $15,000, depending on condition.
1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime
The 1975 No-S Dime is one of the rarest modern U.S. coin errors. Only two confirmed examples exist, making it a true numismatic mystery.
- Why It’s Valuable: Extremely low known population.
- Value: $500,000+, with the last auction price exceeding this amount.
1942/1 Mercury Dime
This famous overdate error was created when a 1941 die was mistakenly reused to strike 1942 Mercury Dimes. The underlying “1” is clearly visible beneath the “2” on the date.
- Why It’s Valuable: A major and well-documented overdate error.
- Value: $2,500 – $20,000+, depending on condition.
1964-D Doubled Die Reverse Dime
The 1964-D Doubled Die Reverse (DDR) Dime features clear doubling on the lettering and torch details due to a misaligned die strike.
- Why It’s Valuable: A prominent doubled die error in a key year for silver dimes.
- Value: $1,500 – $5,000, based on condition.
1996-W Roosevelt Dime with Missing Mintmark
The 1996-W Roosevelt Dime was issued to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Roosevelt Dime and was only available in collector sets. However, some were found without their mintmark, making them extremely rare.
- Why It’s Valuable: Special commemorative issue with an error in minting.
- Value: $3,000+ in top condition.
1970-S Proof Roosevelt Dime
A doubled die error occurs when the coin’s design is mistakenly struck twice, leading to visible doubling on the date and lettering. The 1970-S Proof Dime has one of the most sought-after doubled die varieties.
- Why It’s Valuable: A rare doubled die error on a proof coin.
- Value: $1,500 – $2,500 in high grades.
1999 Broadstruck Roosevelt Dime
A broadstrike error happens when a coin is struck without the collar that normally shapes the edges, resulting in a flattened and enlarged coin. The 1999 Broadstruck Roosevelt Dime is one of the most notable examples.
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- Why It’s Valuable: The error is visually dramatic and highly collectible.
- Value: $300 – $1,000+, depending on condition.
2000-P Dime with Missing Clad Layer
Dimes are made of a copper-nickel clad layer, but sometimes the outer layer is missing, exposing the reddish copper core underneath. This makes the coin visibly different from a normal dime.
- Why It’s Valuable: A rare striking defect that stands out.
- Value: $250 – $750+, depending on the level of missing clad.
How to Spot a Valuable Dime Error
If you think you’ve found a rare dime, look for these signs:
- Missing Mintmark: Check for missing “P,” “D,” or “S” mintmarks, especially on certain years.
- Doubled Die: Look for overlapping letters or numbers, indicating a doubled die strike.
- Off-Center Strike: Coins that are off-center can be worth significantly more.
- Broadstrike: A coin missing its reeding (edge pattern) can be a valuable error.
- Clad Layer Issues: If your dime has a coppery appearance, it might be missing its clad layer.
Where to Sell a Valuable Dime Error
If you believe you have a valuable dime error, consider these selling options:
- Auction Houses: Heritage Auctions, Stack’s Bowers.
- Coin Dealers: Certified numismatic dealers can evaluate and buy rare coins.
- Online Marketplaces: eBay, GreatCollections, and other platforms for coin collectors.
- Coin Shows & Expos: Attend events to connect with buyers and experts.
Table – Top 9 Most Valuable Dime Coin Errors in Circulation
| Coin | Mint/Origin | Unique Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1969 No-S Roosevelt Dime | San Francisco (No “S”) | Proof coin mistakenly missing mintmark | $30,000+ |
| 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime | Philadelphia (No “P”) | First Philadelphia coin missing mintmark | $500 – $15,000 |
| 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime | San Francisco (No “S”) | Only two known, extreme rarity | $500,000+ |
| 1942/1 Mercury Dime | U.S. Mint | Overdate error with visible “1” under “2” | $2,500 – $20,000+ |
| 1964-D Doubled Die Reverse Dime | Denver | Clear doubling on torch and lettering | $1,500 – $5,000 |
| 1996-W Roosevelt Dime (Missing Mintmark) | West Point (No “W”) | Commemorative issue with minting error | $3,000+ |
| 1970-S Proof Roosevelt Dime | San Francisco | Sought-after doubled die error | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| 1999 Broadstruck Roosevelt Dime | U.S. Mint | Struck without collar, giving a flattened look | $300 – $1,000+ |
| 2000-P Dime with Missing Clad Layer | Philadelphia | Missing outer clad layer, exposing copper core | $250 – $750+ |
Finding a rare dime error in your pocket change is like winning the numismatic lottery. With some error dimes worth tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars, checking your spare change is always a good idea. Whether it’s a 1975 No-S Dime, a 1942/1 Mercury Dime, or a 1996-W missing mintmark, these valuable errors continue to capture the attention of collectors worldwide.
So next time you get a dime in your hand, take a closer look—you might be holding a small fortune!
FAQs
What is the most valuable dime error?
The 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime is one of the rarest, with only two known examples, valued at $500,000+.
How do I know if my dime has an error?
Look for missing mintmarks, doubled dies, off-center strikes, missing clad layers, and broadstrikes. Using a magnifying glass or coin microscope can help.
Are error dimes still found in circulation? Yes! While rare, some errors like the 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime have been discovered in circulation.
Where can I sell a valuable error dime?
Through coin dealers, auction houses (Heritage, Stack’s Bowers), online marketplaces (eBay, GreatCollections), and coin shows.
What is the best way to verify a dime error?
Professional grading services like PCGS or NGC can authenticate and grade your coin, confirming its error and value.
