Coins are not just currency; they tell the stories of their time and can even hold hidden treasures. Among these, the 1968 No-S Proof Dime stands out as a rare mistake with a fascinating backstory. While many coins are valuable because of their age or historical significance, this particular dime is unique because of a minting error that makes it highly sought after by collectors. This coin could be worth as much as $350,000, depending on its condition, making it one of the most valuable dimes in U.S. history. If you have one of these in your collection, you could be sitting on a small fortune.
What Makes the 1968 No-S Proof Dime So Special?
The 1968 No-S Proof Dime is a coin that was supposed to feature a mintmark (an “S” for the San Francisco Mint) but, due to a mistake, some dimes were produced without it. The U.S. Mint started putting mintmarks on coins again in 1968, and most of the proof dimes were marked with an “S” to indicate they were made in San Francisco. However, a few were struck without the mintmark, making them incredibly rare and valuable today.
How Do You Spot the 1968 No-S Proof Dime?
If you think you might have a 1968 No-S Proof Dime, it’s important to know what to look for. Here are the key features that set it apart from other dimes:
1. Proof Quality
A proof coin is different from a regular coin because it is made with special care, and has a shiny, mirror-like finish. If you see a dime that looks extra shiny and has sharp details, it might be a proof coin.
2. No Mintmark
One of the most important features of this coin is the lack of a mintmark. Regular dimes from 1968 (made in Philadelphia) don’t have a mintmark either, but proof coins from San Francisco should have the “S” mintmark. A 1968 No-S Proof Dime will be missing this mintmark, making it very unique.
3. Enhanced Rims
The edges of proof coins are usually sharper and more defined than those of regular coins. If you notice that the rim is thicker and sharper than usual, it could be a proof coin.
What Is the Value of the 1968 No-S Proof Dime?
The rarity of the 1968 No-S Proof Dime directly affects its value. Because so few were made, and even fewer survived in good condition, these dimes can sell for a high price. Here’s a breakdown of auction prices for different grades of the coin:
- PR67 Grade: A coin in this grade sold for $40,250 in 2008.
- PR68 Grade: This grade saw an auction price of $48,875 in 2006.
- PR69 Grade: One coin in this grade fetched $45,600 in 2022.
These auction records show how valuable the 1968 No-S Proof Dime can be, with some coins reaching up to $48,875, and in rare cases, even more.
How Does the 1968 No-S Proof Dime Compare to Other Dimes from 1968?
While the 1968 No-S Proof Dime is rare, it’s important to understand how it compares to other dimes from the same year. Here’s a quick comparison of different 1968 dimes and their values:
| Variant | Mintmark | Mintage | Approximate Value (Uncirculated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1968 Philadelphia Dime | None | 424,470,400 | $4 – $475 |
| 1968 Denver Dime | D | 480,748,280 | $4 – $300 |
| 1968 San Francisco Proof Dime | S | 3,041,506 | $3 – $125 |
| 1968 No-S Proof Dime | None | Estimated < 35 | $12,000 – $48,875 |
As you can see, the 1968 No-S Proof Dime stands out not just because of its minting error but also because of its high market value compared to the other 1968 dimes.
How to Authenticate Your 1968 No-S Proof Dime
If you think you have found a 1968 No-S Proof Dime, it’s important to verify its authenticity. Here are a few steps you can take:
1. Get it Graded by Professionals
The first thing you should do is have the coin professionally graded. A reputable grading service can confirm whether your coin is a genuine 1968 No-S Proof Dime and tell you what grade it has, which affects its value.
2. Consult with Experts
If you’re not sure about your coin, you can also consult with experienced coin dealers or numismatists (coin experts). They can help you determine if your dime is a No-S Proof Dime.
3. Research Auction Results
Before you sell or auction your coin, check recent auction results for 1968 No-S Proof Dimes. This will give you an idea of how much your coin might be worth in the current market.
Conclusion
The 1968 No-S Proof Dime is a rare and valuable coin that holds a special place in numismatic history. Its value has soared because of its rarity, and it continues to be highly sought after by collectors and investors. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just someone with an interest in coins, finding this particular dime in your collection could lead to a significant financial reward. If you believe you have one, it’s worth getting it professionally graded and doing some research to understand its true value.
Guilderland Historical Society
FAQs
What is the 1968 No-S Proof Dime?
It is a rare dime made in 1968 without the usual “S” mintmark, making it highly valuable to collectors.
Why is the 1968 No-S Proof Dime worth so much?
Its rarity, due to a minting error, makes it extremely valuable, with some coins fetching up to $350,000.
How do I identify a 1968 No-S Proof Dime?
Look for a mirror-like finish, a lack of mintmark above the date, and enhanced rims.