Rumors are swirling: a Roosevelt dime is allegedly worth a staggering $957,000, and it might even be hiding in your pocket change. While the headline sounds sensational, there’s truth behind the buzz—though the actual value comes with important context.
Let’s explore what makes certain Roosevelt dimes so valuable, which types collectors chase, and how you can spot one yourself.
Understanding the Roosevelt Dime
The Roosevelt dime has been the United States’ ten-cent coin since 1946, featuring President Franklin D. Roosevelt on the obverse and a torch, olive branch, and oak branch on the reverse—symbols of liberty, peace, and strength.
Originally minted in 90% silver until 1964, these were switched to a copper-nickel clad composition in 1965 to reduce costs.
Unless your dime is one of a rare few, most still circulating are worth only face value or a few dollars at best.
What Makes a Roosevelt Dime Worth Six Figures?
The rare $957K valuation stems from ultra-rare minting errors, specifically the “No S” proof dimes from 1975.
These were intended to be proof coins minted in San Francisco, all of which should bear an “S” mint mark. However, two or fewer slipped through without that mark—making them incredibly valuable.
One of the known survivors sold at auction for around $500,000, confirming that these rare coins can indeed become half-million-dollar treasures.
Rare Roosevelt Dime Values at a Glance
| Type of Dime | Rarity / Description | Approximate Auction Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1975 “No S” Proof Dime | Missing mint mark, one of two known | ~$456,000 – $506,000 |
| 1968 “No S” Proof Dime | Error from Philadelphia mint | ~$45,600 (high-grade examples) |
| 1965 No Mint Mark (Silver Clad) | Rare clad issue without mint mark | $20 – $1,000+, depending on condition |
| Regular Clad Roosevelt Dime | Standard circulation coin | Typically face value or slight premium |
The Real Story Behind the $957K Claim
The remarkable figure of $957,000 appears to be an inflated headline, likely inspired by the known 1975 “No S” dime sales.
While not yet confirmed by public auction records, the coin’s legend highlights how a routine dime can become extraordinary under the right circumstances.
In Ohio, a long-hidden example surfaced and sold for $506,250, validating collector interest in these mint errors.
Why You Should Check Your Change
Before dismissing it, look closely at any Roosevelt dime you have, especially those minted in 1975:
- Examine the mint mark near Roosevelt’s neck (1980+ moved above the date). If it’s missing on a 1975 proof coin, hold on tight!
- Check for proof-like finishes, such as mirror fields and frosted devices—hallmarks of proof coins.
- Inspect whether the coin looks like it came from a collector set, rather than circulation.
Even if your coin isn’t worth six figures, many rare dimes still fetch thousands of dollars, especially in top grade or with unique errors.
That penny—or dime—in your change might just be a rare gem. The Roosevelt dime occasionally hides across-the-board rarities, from high-value proof errors to mint anomalies.
While the $957K headline may be dramatic, it’s grounded in genuine collector demand for ultra-rare varieties—notably the 1975 No-S proof.
Next time you’re buying coffee, pause and examine your change closely. You could be carrying a small fortune in your hands.
FAQs
Can any Roosevelt dime be worth nearly a million dollars?
No. Only extremely rare mint-error dimes—such as the 1975 “No S” proofs—have ever approached half a million dollars in auction sales.
How can I check if my dime is special?
Look for missing mint marks, proof quality, and date. If uncertain, a professional grading service can confirm whether it’s a rare error or high-grade collectible.
If it’s not rare, what’s it worth?
Ordinary Roosevelt dimes generally hold face value or slightly more based on silver content (pre-1965) or condition. Only error varieties gather serious collector premiums.