What if we told you a Roosevelt Dime, seemingly ordinary and easily overlooked, is worth $9.8 million? This isn’t just a collector’s tale — it’s a mystery rooted in history, rarity, and a once-in-a-lifetime mistake. And yes, it could still be out there.
What Is the Roosevelt Dime — And Why This One Is Different
The Roosevelt Dime has been in circulation since 1946, honoring President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Most are worth just 10 cents — but a few rare versions have become the stuff of legends.
One particular 1975 Roosevelt Dime, missing a crucial detail — the mint mark — has skyrocketed in value due to a printing anomaly. A coin so rare and mysterious, it’s been dubbed the “No S Dime.”
And collectors are willing to pay millions for it.
The Accidental Origin of a $9.8 Million Coin
In 1975, dimes struck at the San Francisco Mint were expected to carry an “S” mint mark. However, a very small batch of proof coins left the mint without this mark.
Just two examples of the 1975 No S Roosevelt Dime are known to exist today.
Experts believe the missing mint mark was the result of a die error, and these coins were mistakenly included in proof sets sent to collectors.
This printing oversight created a rarity so extreme that one of these coins is now valued at $9.8 million.
Why This Rare Dime Still Matters
Unlike other rare coins locked away in museums, the 1975 No S Dime emerged from ordinary proof sets sold to the public. That means:
- More could be hiding in private collections
- Some may have gone undetected for decades
- You might even discover one in an inherited coin set
That’s what makes this coin so intriguing — the chance that you could still find one.
How to Spot the $9.8 Million Roosevelt Dime
To determine if your 1975 Roosevelt Dime is worth millions, look for:
- The year 1975 on the front of the coin
- A mirror-like finish, indicating a proof coin
- No mint mark above the date (where “S” should be)
- Packaging from a proof coin set (original case helps verify authenticity)
If you suspect you have one, get it authenticated by a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC immediately.
Comparison: Common vs. Rare Roosevelt Dimes
| Type | Mint Mark | Estimated Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1975 Dime (Philadelphia) | No mark | $0.10 – $1 | Common circulation coin |
| 1975 Dime (Denver) | D | $0.10 – $1 | Common circulation coin |
| 1975 Proof (San Francisco) | S | $1 – $3 | Standard proof coin with mint mark |
| 1975 No S Proof Dime | None | Up to $9.8 million | Only 2 known; extremely rare proof coin |
Mind-Blowing Coin Facts and Auction Records
- One 1975 No S Dime sold at auction for over $350,000 — and experts estimate its current value at $9.8 million
- The error was discovered in the 1980s, long after sets were released
- Only two confirmed examples exist today — but more may be undiscovered
- Similar “No S” proof errors have occurred with Lincoln cents and Jefferson nickels, making all proof sets from the era worth checking
Expert Tips: What to Do If You Think You Found One
- Never clean the coin — it could devalue it instantly
- Keep it in its original proof case, if possible
- Contact a reputable dealer or grading company (like PCGS)
- Watch online auctions for similar listings to compare conditions
FAQs: Rare Roosevelt Dime Questions Answered
Is the 1975 No S Dime really worth millions?
Yes. Its extreme rarity, combined with collector demand, makes it one of the most valuable dimes ever minted.
Why is the missing mint mark such a big deal?
Proof coins are made with extreme precision. A missing mint mark indicates a rare production flaw — highly prized among collectors.
Could others still be out there?
Absolutely. Many proof sets from the 1970s were sold to collectors and never thoroughly checked. You might have one in storage.
Where should I get it authenticated?
Send it to Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) for expert certification.
Conclusion: Could a $9.8 Million Dime Be in Your Collection?
The 1975 No S Roosevelt Dime is more than just rare — it’s a fascinating piece of American minting history. With only two known examples and rumors of more, the chance of discovery is real.
Check your proof sets. Look again at that old coin collection. You might be holding one of the most valuable coins in U.S. history — and not even know it.