The $957,000 Roosevelt Dime: How a Simple Coin Became a Numismatic Sensation
Roosevelt Dime: Imagine finding a small, ordinary-looking dime in your pocket and discovering it’s worth nearly $1 million. Sounds unbelievable, right? Yet, that’s precisely what happened with the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime – a rare mint error that has turned heads in the numismatic community. This dime, struck at the San Francisco Mint, usually bears an “S” mint mark to signify its origin. However, due to a minting error, some 1975 proof dimes were produced without the “S” mark, making them incredibly rare and valuable. To date, only two such dimes are known to exist, with one recently fetching an astounding $957,000 at auction.

Roosevelt Dime
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Coin Name | 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime |
Estimated Value | Up to $957,000 |
Reason for Value | Minting error: Missing “S” mint mark |
Number Known | 2 |
Auction Records | $456,000 (2019), $506,250 (2024), Estimated $957,000 (2025) |
Recommended Actions | Do not clean, handle with gloves, get a professional appraisal |
Official Information | American Spaces Philippines |
The 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime is a captivating example of how a small mistake at the mint can lead to a fortune. Though finding one is rare, it’s not impossible. If you possess a 1975 proof set, take a moment to inspect the dime. A tiny oversight from nearly five decades ago might just make you a millionaire.
Why Is the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime So Valuable?
The value of this dime stems from its rarity and historical significance. Proof coins from the San Francisco Mint are expected to bear the “S” mint mark, denoting their origin. However, due to a minting error, a few coins from 1975 were struck without this mark. This anomaly makes these dimes exceedingly scarce and valuable. Since only two examples have surfaced, collectors and investors alike have shown immense interest, leading to record-breaking auction prices.
Recent Auction Results
The journey of this coin in the auction world has been nothing short of spectacular:
- 2019: One of the two known dimes sold for $456,000.
- 2024: The second known dime fetched $506,250.
- 2025: An estimated value of $957,000 has been reported for a similar coin.
These high figures are attributed to extreme rarity, collector interest, and the historic significance of the mint error.
Roosevelt Dime: How to Identify a 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime?
It might sound like finding a needle in a haystack, but it’s worth checking your 1975 proof set. Here’s how you can identify this valuable dime:
- Inspect for the Mint Mark: The key indicator is the absence of the “S” mint mark on the reverse side.
- Check the Condition: Coins in pristine condition are more valuable.
- Authentication: If you think you have one, get it professionally authenticated by a reputable coin grading service like PCGS or NGC.
What to Do If You Find One
Owning a potential $957,000 dime can be thrilling. To ensure you don’t compromise its value, follow these expert tips:
- Do Not Clean the Coin: Cleaning can significantly reduce its worth.
- Handle with Care: Use gloves when handling to prevent oils from your skin from damaging the coin.
- Get a Professional Appraisal: Contact a certified coin dealer or grading service for evaluation.
- Secure the Coin: Store it in a protective holder to avoid damage.
- Consider Auctioning: Major auction houses like GreatCollections and Heritage Auctions specialize in rare coins.
Real-Life Example
In a recent case, a family discovered the rare dime while sorting through old coin sets. They initially overlooked it, but a keen-eyed collector spotted the missing mint mark and suggested a professional evaluation. The coin later sold for over half a million dollars at auction.
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FAQs on Roosevelt Dime
1. How can I be sure my dime is valuable?
Carefully check the dime for the “S” mint mark. If it’s missing, you may have the rare version. Have it authenticated by professionals.
2. Should I clean the coin to make it look better?
No! Cleaning the coin can lower its value. Collectors prefer coins in untouched, original condition.
3. Where can I get my coin appraised?
Visit established grading services like PCGS or NGC. They will provide a reliable valuation.
4. Are there other valuable Roosevelt dimes?
Yes, several Roosevelt dimes are valuable due to errors or limited mintage, including the 1949-S and 1968 No-S dimes.
5. How can I sell my rare dime?
Contact reputable auction houses or numismatic experts who specialize in rare coin sales.