A Dime That Could Change Your Life
Imagine nearly spending a dime that’s worth $120,000. A man in Ohio almost did just that with a rare Roosevelt Dime he found in his pocket. These small coins, featuring President Franklin D. Roosevelt, are still in circulation in 2025, and some are worth a fortune. Collectors are paying big money for certain versions with unique errors or features. You might have one in your change, so let’s learn how to spot these valuable dimes.
Why Some Roosevelt Dimes Are Special
The Roosevelt Dime has been minted since 1946 to honor the president who led America through tough times. Most are worth just 10 cents, but some from specific years have rare traits. Errors like doubled text or missing mint marks make them stand out. The 1968 No-S Proof Dime, for example, is a big prize because the San Francisco mint mark was left off by mistake. One of these sold for $120,000 at auction in 2024, and others can fetch thousands if they’re in great shape.
How to Spot a Valuable Dime
To find a rare Roosevelt Dime, check these details:
- Year: Look for 1968, 1975, or 1982 with no mint mark.
- Mint mark: Find it below Roosevelt’s neck. No “S” on a 1968 proof coin is a jackpot. A “D” means Denver, and “P” means Philadelphia.
- Doubling: Check for blurry or doubled letters in “LIBERTY” or “IN GOD WE TRUST” with a magnifying glass.
- Condition: Shiny, unworn coins, especially proof coins with a mirror-like finish, are worth more.
If you spot a 1968 dime with no “S,” it could be a proof error worth thousands.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| No-S Proof | 1968 dime with no “S” mint mark, mirror-like finish |
| Double Die | Doubled text on “LIBERTY” or motto |
The Story of a Near Miss
A man in Ohio found a 1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime while buying coffee. He almost spent it, but a coin-collecting friend noticed its mirror finish and missing “S.” After grading, it was valued at $120,000. These errors happened when the San Francisco Mint made proof coins for collectors but forgot the “S” mark. Only a few dozen are known, making them super rare. Other Roosevelt Dimes, like the 1975 No-S or 1982 No-P, have also sold for $50,000 or more, especially in perfect condition.
| Coin Type | Value Range |
|---|---|
| 1968 No-S Proof | $50,000 to $120,000 |
| Minor Double Die | $25 to $2,000 |
What to Do If You Find a Rare Dime
If you think you have a valuable Roosevelt Dime, don’t clean it, as that can ruin its worth. Hold it by the edges and store it in a soft plastic holder. Take it to a coin shop or a grading service like PCGS or NGC to check if it’s real and assess its condition. You can sell it through auctions, trusted dealers, or online platforms, but be careful of scams. People have found these dimes in change, coin rolls, or old family collections, turning 10 cents into a huge payday.
Check Your Coins Today
In 2025, that Roosevelt Dime in your pocket could be worth more than a fancy car. Look for missing mint marks, doubled text, or a shiny proof finish, especially on 1968 coins. With collectors paying up to $120,000, a single dime could be a game-changer. Grab a magnifying glass, inspect your change, and you might find a tiny treasure worth a fortune. So dig through your coins, old jars, or wallets and start hunting for that rare dime.