If you’re casually sifting through loose change or a coin collection, you might be sitting on a hidden treasure.
One of the most exciting finds for collectors is the Roosevelt Dime that carries a major mint error, and today these coins can command well over $10,000.
In this article we’ll explore which error varieties are hitting those high values, why they’re so rare, what exact features to look for, and how much they’re really worth. Get ready to check your dimes more closely than ever before.
What Makes a Roosevelt Dime Error Valuable?
1. Key Features Behind the High Value
Several clues drive the high valuations of these coins:
- A missing mint mark, especially the “S” (for the San Francisco Mint) on proof dimes, which should never occur.
- A proof quality strike (mirror-like fields, frosted devices) or special finish such as “Deep Cameo”.
- A combined factor of low mintage, documented error, and collector demand.
- Premium grading—coins in pristine condition (grade MS/PR 65-70) fetch far more.
The combination of these elements drives the coin from a dime’s face value of 10 cents up into the thousands of dollars—and in some cases beyond $10,000.
Which Roosevelt Dime Error Coins Are Worth Over $10,000?
Here are some standout examples that qualify for this high-value status.
| Coin Variety | Date / Mint | Key Error or Feature | Typical Value* |
|---|---|---|---|
| “No S” Proof – San Francisco | 1975 S | Proof strike missing the “S” mint mark | Over $200,000 in top grade |
| Proof Deep Cameo Type 2 | 1983-S | Clad coin with no “S” mint mark & special finish | ~$10,560 and up |
| Proof Deep Cameo Silver | 1951 | Early silver proof, Deep Cameo finish | ~$23,500 and more |
| Full-Band Silver Business Strike | 1949 | Sharp bands on reverse, silver composition | ~$13,200 and rising |
Values are approximate market guide figures for well-graded specimens.
These examples illustrate that even though the face value is just 10 cents, the error variants can command five- and six-figure sums.
The 1975 “No S” proof is perhaps the most extreme case—one recently sold for over $500,000.
Why These Coins Are So Rare
There are several reasons these error dimes are extremely rare:
- The minting process for proof coins includes a mint mark to indicate origin. An omission of the mint mark is a major mistake and few survive.
- Many proof sets were sold and the error examples were discovered years later, often in private collections or vaults.
- Proof coins are typically handled less, meaning survival in high grade is uncommon.
- Error coins are highly sought by collectors, pushing prices upward when one hits the auction block.
- Because the supply is tiny (sometimes only two known examples for a variety) the value leaps dramatically.
What To Look For If You Have One
- Check the reverse side of the dime—proof coins should have a mint mark above the date (for example “S” for San Francisco). Missing mint mark = possible error.
- Determine if it’s a proof strike (smooth mirror fields, frosted devices). Regular circulation strike has matte finish.
- If silver composition: coins dated 1946–1964 are 90% silver. Later clad (post-1965) coins are less valuable unless error.
- Verify condition & grading—clean surfaces, minimal wear, no major marks. Higher grade = more value.
- Get expert authentication especially for error variants—they are frequently counterfeited or mis-represented.
- Keep documentation and provenance if available—auction records elevate value.
A rare error variant of the Roosevelt dime isn’t just a curiosity—it can be a major collectible worth tens of thousands of dollars or more.
From missing “S” mint marks on proof strikes to silver proof dimes in deep cameo finish, these coins command high prices because they’re scarce, verified, and in excellent condition.
If you’ve got Roosevelt dimes in your collection (or even in your change), it’s well worth checking them carefully. With the right features, you might just be looking at something far more valuable than 10 cents.
FAQs
Could any Roosevelt dime error be worth over $10,000?
No — only very specific error types (missing mint mark, proven proof strike, very low known examples) and high grade condition qualify for $10,000+ valuations. Common circulation dimes do not reach that range.
How do I know if the mint mark is missing or just worn away?
Compare with confirmed standard specimens of the same date/mint. If the mint mark area is blank but fields are sharp and there is proof-style finish, it may be a true “no mint mark” error. Wear tends to blur surfaces rather than leave a crisp but absent mint mark.
If I find one, how do I realise its value?
First get it graded by a reputable grading service. Then you can consign it to an auction house specializing in rare coins, where competitive bidding can drive the price. Having good condition and documentation helps maximise value.
