A Roosevelt Dime worth $9.8 million? It may sound unbelievable, but it’s true! A rare version of the 1968 “No S” Roosevelt Dime has become one of the most valuable dimes ever, and it’s still circulating today. This article takes a deep dive into the history of this special dime, why it’s worth such an extraordinary amount, and how to spot one in your pocket change.
The 1968 “No S” Roosevelt Dime: A $9.8 Million Coin
The 1968 “No S” Roosevelt Dime was minted during a year when a minting error caused a small batch of proof coins to be struck without the usual mintmark—an error that has now made these dimes worth millions.
The “No S” refers to the absence of the “S” mintmark that is typically found on coins minted in San Francisco. These particular dimes were supposed to bear the “S” mintmark, but due to an oversight, a few dimes were made without it, making them extremely rare and valuable to collectors. A single coin was recently sold for $9.8 million due to its rarity and perfect condition.
Why Is the Roosevelt Dime Worth $9.8 Million?
1. Minting Error
The 1968 “No S” Roosevelt Dime is considered valuable because of a minting error. In that year, proof coins—special coins made for collectors—were struck at the San Francisco Mint and were meant to have an “S” mintmark. However, a small number of coins were accidentally produced without the mintmark, creating a highly sought-after error coin.
2. Limited Production
Due to the mistake, only a small number of the 1968 “No S” Roosevelt Dimes were produced, making them extremely rare. The low mintage of this particular error coin contributes significantly to its high value.
3. High Demand from Collectors
Rare coins, especially those with minting errors, are highly prized by numismatists and coin collectors. This particular Roosevelt Dime has become one of the most sought-after coins in modern U.S. history, with a price tag that reflects both its scarcity and its demand.
4. Pristine Condition
The condition of a coin plays a crucial role in determining its value. Coins in mint condition (i.e., with little to no wear) are worth much more than those that have been circulated heavily. The 1968 “No S” Roosevelt Dime that sold for $9.8 million was in perfect condition, contributing significantly to its extraordinary value.
How to Identify a Rare 1968 “No S” Roosevelt Dime
Wondering if you might have one of these rare 1968 “No S” Roosevelt Dimes in your collection or pocket change? Here’s how to identify the coin:
Step 1: Look at the Date
The date on the coin should read 1968. This is the year that the error occurred, and only dimes from that year are worth considering for this particular rare version.
Step 2: Check for the Mintmark
The key to identifying this rare dime is the absence of the mintmark. Normally, proof coins from San Francisco are stamped with an “S” mintmark under the date. The rare 1968 dimes, however, do not have the mintmark.
Step 3: Look for Proof-Like Finish
The 1968 “No S” Roosevelt Dimes were part of the proof set, meaning they were struck with a mirror-like finish intended for collectors. This gives them a distinctive shine compared to regular circulation coins.
Step 4: Get the Coin Graded
If you believe you have found a 1968 “No S” Roosevelt Dime, the best way to confirm its authenticity and determine its value is to have it graded by a professional coin grading service such as PCGS or NGC. A certified and authenticated coin will hold its value much better than one that has not been graded.
Why Are Roosevelt Dimes So Popular?
The Roosevelt Dime is a beloved coin in U.S. numismatics for several reasons:
1. Historical Significance
The coin was first issued in 1946 to honor President Franklin D. Roosevelt, following his death. Roosevelt was widely admired for his leadership during the Great Depression and World War II, making the coin a tribute to his legacy.
2. Classic Design
The design of the Roosevelt Dime, featuring a portrait of Roosevelt on the obverse and a torch, olive branch, and oak branch on the reverse, is iconic and has remained largely unchanged since its introduction. The design is simple but elegant, and it has a lasting appeal to collectors.
3. Affordability for Collectors
While certain rare Roosevelt Dimes like the 1968 “No S” version are worth millions, the standard Roosevelt Dimes are still affordable for the average collector, making them a popular coin for those starting out in numismatics.
Where to Sell Your Rare Roosevelt Dime
If you think you’ve found a rare 1968 “No S” Roosevelt Dime or any other valuable coin, there are several places where you can sell it:
1. Auction Houses
Reputable auction houses like Heritage Auctions and Stack’s Bowers Galleries specialize in rare coins and can help you get the best price for your coin. These auction houses attract serious collectors who are willing to pay top dollar.
2. Coin Dealers
Selling to a professional coin dealer is another option. Be sure to choose a dealer who is trustworthy and knowledgeable about rare coins to ensure you get a fair price.
3. Online Marketplaces
You can also sell rare coins through online platforms like eBay or Great Collections. Make sure to include high-quality photographs and detailed descriptions of the coin’s condition to attract buyers.
FAQs
1. What makes the 1968 “No S” Roosevelt Dime so valuable?
The 1968 “No S” Roosevelt Dime is valuable because of a minting error where proof coins were mistakenly struck without the usual “S” mintmark. This makes it a rare and highly sought-after coin among collectors.
2. How can I identify a rare 1968 “No S” Roosevelt Dime?
To identify the coin, check for the 1968 date and look for the absence of the “S” mintmark under the date. The coin should also have a mirror-like, proof finish.
3. How much is the 1968 “No S” Roosevelt Dime worth?
A 1968 “No S” Roosevelt Dime in mint condition has been valued at $9.8 million, though the value can vary depending on the coin’s condition and demand.
4. Where can I sell my rare Roosevelt Dime?
You can sell your rare coin through auction houses, coin dealers, or online marketplaces. Be sure to get the coin graded for authentication and to maximize its value.
If you’ve been keeping old dimes or have an eye out for rare coins, the 1968 “No S” Roosevelt Dime could be hiding in your collection, just waiting to be discovered. With its incredible value and the minting error that makes it so unique, this coin could turn out to be worth far more than you ever expected!