Coins are an important part of every country’s currency system, and many people collect them for fun or as a hobby. Among these coins, some are worth more than others due to rare features or minting errors. One such coin is the Roosevelt dime, which has been a part of U.S. currency since 1946. While most Roosevelt dimes are common, certain versions are extremely rare and can be worth a lot of money. One such coin, the 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime, is so rare that it has sold for more than $500,000 in auctions. If you have a Roosevelt dime, especially one from 1975, you may want to check if it’s missing the mint mark—this simple error could make it worth thousands of dollars!
Understanding Mint Marks and Their Importance
Mint marks are small letters on U.S. coins that show where they were made. These marks help collectors determine the rarity and value of a coin. Here are the mint marks you’ll commonly see on U.S. coins:
- P for Philadelphia
- D for Denver
- S for San Francisco
The mint mark is important because it shows which mint produced the coin. Some mints are more famous or rarer than others, and this can increase the value of the coin. For example, a coin with an “S” mint mark is often associated with the San Francisco Mint, which has produced some of the most valuable and rare coins in U.S. history.
The 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime: A Rare and Valuable Coin
In 1975, the U.S. Mint in San Francisco produced over 2.8 million proof sets. These sets included a Roosevelt dime, which was expected to have the “S” mint mark. However, due to a minting error, two dimes were made without the “S” mint mark, creating what we now call the 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime.
This error made the coin incredibly rare. In fact, only two known examples of the 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime exist today. Over the years, these rare coins have fetched astonishing prices at auctions:
- In 2011, one of these dimes sold for $349,600.
- In 2019, another specimen was sold for $456,000.
- In 2024, the same coin from 2019 was resold for over $500,000.
These high prices highlight just how valuable this minting error can be, making the 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime one of the most sought-after coins in U.S. numismatics (the study or collection of coins).
How to Identify a 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime
If you think you might have a 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime, here’s how you can identify it:
- Check the Date: The coin should show the year 1975.
- Look for the Mint Mark: The mint mark is located above the date on the front (obverse) side of the coin. A missing “S” mint mark indicates that it’s the rare version.
- Check the Quality: These coins are made with a proof quality, meaning they have a mirror-like finish and sharp details, making them different from regular dimes used in everyday transactions.
The absence of the mint mark and the high-quality finish are key signs that your coin might be worth checking out by a professional.
Other Valuable No-S Proof Dimes
The 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime isn’t the only valuable coin with a missing mint mark. Several other No-S Proof dimes are highly valuable and sought after by collectors. Some notable examples include:
- 1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime: This coin can be worth approximately $31,102.
- 1970 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime: These dimes are valued at $500 or more.
- 1983 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime: Like the 1970 version, these coins are worth $500 or more.
These coins are prized by collectors because they are rare and have unique minting errors. If you come across one of these, it could also be worth a significant amount of money.
The Importance of Professional Appraisal
If you think you have a rare coin like the 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime, it’s a good idea to get it professionally appraised. A certified numismatist (a coin expert) can confirm whether your coin is genuine and provide an accurate value. Professional appraisers use advanced tools and knowledge to authenticate coins, ensuring that you understand exactly what you have. This is important because the value of rare coins can change over time, and having an expert appraisal can help you make informed decisions.
Conclusion: Keep an Eye on Your Coins
While finding a 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime or another rare coin may seem unlikely, it’s always worth taking a closer look at your coins. You might have a hidden treasure without even realizing it. Understanding mint marks and knowing which errors make a coin valuable can help you identify potential wealth in your own pocket change. If you ever find a coin that seems unusual or rare, remember to consult a professional who can help determine its value. Coin collecting can be both a fascinating hobby and a rewarding way to discover valuable pieces of history.
Guilderland Historical Society
FAQs
What is a Roosevelt Dime?
The Roosevelt Dime is a 10-cent U.S. coin first issued in 1946, featuring President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
What is a mint mark on a coin?
A mint mark is a small letter on a coin that indicates where it was minted, such as “P” for Philadelphia, “D” for Denver, or “S” for San Francisco.
What makes the 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime valuable?
The 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime is rare because it was accidentally struck without the expected “S” mint mark, making it highly valuable to collectors.