Have you ever noticed loose coins clinking in your pocket? Most of us don’t think twice about loose coins, but a rare Roosevelt dime could turn your remaining coins into a fortune. The Roosevelt dime, first minted in 1946 in honor of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, is a common sight in American wallets. However, some versions of this dime are incredibly rare and valuable, with one recently selling for $1.9 million at auction. Let’s find out what makes this little coin so special and how you can identify it.
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A small coin with a big story
The Roosevelt dime was minted in 1945 after the death of Franklin D. Roosevelt. The U.S. Mint wanted to honor his legacy, particularly his role in founding the March of Dimes to fight polio. The coin’s design is simple: Roosevelt’s profile on the front and a torch, olive branch and oak branch on the back. While there are millions of these dimes in circulation, some rare dimes stand out due to mint errors or unique features. These rare dimes, especially those from specific years and mints, are what collectors dream about.
The million-dollar mistake
The $1.9 million dime, the 1969-S Roosevelt dime, holds its value because of a rare mint error. Some dimes from the San Francisco Mint (which has an “S” stamped on it) were mistakenly minted without a mint mark. This mistake made them incredibly rare, as only a handful are known to exist. Another valuable version is the 1975 “No S” Proof dime, which also did not have a mint mark. These errors make the coins unique, causing their value to skyrocket. In 2019, one such dime sold for $1.9 million, and experts say prices could rise even higher due to competition from collectors.
How to Identify a Valuable Coin
Do you have any of these treasures in your change jar? Here’s what you should look for:
- Dimes: Check for 1969 or 1975, as these years have rare “no S” varieties.
- Mint mark: Look for the small “S” (or lack thereof) near the date. It’s usually on the front, just below Roosevelt’s neck.
- Condition: Coins in pristine condition are more valuable. Scratches or wear can reduce the value.
- Proof coins: Some rare dimes are “proof” coins, made for collectors with a shiny, mirror-like finish.
If you find a suspicious coin, don’t clean it! Cleaning it can damage its surface and reduce its value. Take it to a professional coin dealer or appraiser for a closer look.
What is The Value of These Coins?
Here’s a quick guide to some valuable Roosevelt dimes:
| Year | Mint Mark | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1969 | No S | Up to $1.9M |
| 1975 | No S | Up to $500,000 |
| 1968 | No S | Up to $20,000 |
The coin’s value depends on its condition and market demand. Even flawless Roosevelt dimes from certain years can sell for hundreds or thousands if they are in good condition.
Your Next Steps to Make Money
If you think you have a rare Roosevelt coin, start by comparing it to pictures online or in coin-collecting guides. Visit a reputable coin dealer or contact organizations like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) for an expert opinion. If your coin is valuable, auctions, coin shows or online marketplaces are great places to sell. Who knows? That coin you’ve been ignoring may just be your ticket to life-changing money. So, the next time you’re rummaging through your change, take a second look as you may have a small treasure.
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