Imagine stumbling upon a dime that could change your life. That’s exactly what happened when a collector recently sold a rare coin for an eye-popping $456,000. What made this tiny ten-cent piece so valuable? A minting mistake so rare that only two known examples exist today. Rare coin collectors are now on high alert, checking their collections and spare change in hopes of discovering the second. Let’s dive into the incredible story behind this legendary dime and explore other error coins that have made headlines.
1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime
The dime that fetched $456,000 is known as the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime—a proof coin that should have had an “S” mintmark for San Francisco but mysteriously doesn’t. In 1975, the U.S. Mint produced special proof sets for collectors, and each coin was supposed to feature its mintmark. Somehow, a very small number of dimes were struck without this detail. Only two verified examples of this error are known to exist, making it one of the rarest coins in modern U.S. history. In 2011, one of these dimes sold at auction for $456,000, and it’s believed the value could be even higher today. If the second dime ever resurfaces, it could spark a bidding war among elite collectors.
1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime
Before the 1975 No-S error, a similar mistake occurred in 1968. Some proof Roosevelt Dimes were struck without the required “S” mintmark. While not quite as rare as the 1975 version, the 1968 No-S Dime remains incredibly valuable. Only a few dozen are known to exist, and they can sell for $20,000 to $40,000 depending on condition. These coins were part of limited proof sets, so if you or a relative owns a sealed proof set from that year, it’s worth taking a second look.
1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime
Another notable error coin is the 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime. In that year, for the first time ever, dimes minted in Philadelphia were marked with a “P.” But a few coins were mistakenly struck without it. Unlike the 1975 and 1968 No-S dimes, the 1982 No-P error made its way into circulation. That means there’s a chance one could still be hiding in a drawer, coin jar, or old wallet. Uncirculated versions of this error can fetch up to $1,000 or more, making them highly desirable to collectors.
The world of coin collecting is full of surprises, and sometimes a tiny oversight at the mint can result in massive payouts. The 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime is a perfect example of how rarity, history, and collector demand combine to make a coin extraordinarily valuable. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a casual change-checker, now is the time to examine those coins a little more closely. That dime in your pocket could be one of the rarest coins in the country.
FAQ’s:
1. What makes the 1975 No-S Dime so rare?
Only two examples are known to exist, both missing the “S” mintmark required on proof coins from San Francisco.
2. How do I know if I have a proof coin?
Proof coins have a mirror-like finish and sharp details, often sold in special sets.
3. Are these error coins still being found?
Occasionally, yes. Especially errors like the 1982 No-P dime, which entered circulation.
4. What should I do if I find a possible error coin?
Have it evaluated by a professional coin grading service or a reputable dealer.
5. Can cleaning a rare coin improve its value?
No—cleaning a coin can damage it and reduce its market value significantly.
