A Hidden Treasure in Your Change
Coin collecting can be a fun way to make extra cash, and sometimes, a single coin can be worth a fortune. The Roosevelt dime with a clipped planchet error is one such coin, with some selling for as much as $400,000. This dime, made to honor President Franklin D. Roosevelt, has a unique mistake that makes it super valuable. A clipped planchet error happens when part of the coin’s metal is missing, giving it an odd shape. These rare coins are still out there, possibly in your pocket change, waiting to be found by a sharp-eyed collector.
What Is a Clipped Planchet Error?
A planchet is the blank piece of metal used to make a coin. Sometimes, during the minting process, the planchet gets cut incorrectly, leaving a piece missing. This creates a coin with a curved or straight chunk taken out of its edge, making it look incomplete. The error can happen on any Roosevelt dime, but it’s most valuable on coins from certain years, like those from the 1960s or 1970s. The U.S. Mint didn’t mean to make these mistakes, which is why they’re so rare and why collectors pay big money for them.
How to Spot the Error
Finding a clipped planchet Roosevelt dime takes a close look. Check the edge of the coin for a missing piece, which might look like a bite taken out of it. The clipped area should be smooth and curved or straight, not jagged like damage. Also, make sure the coin is a Roosevelt dime, with the president’s face on the front and a torch, olive branch, and oak branch on the back. Use a magnifying glass to inspect the edges clearly. If you think you’ve found one, compare it to a normal dime to see the difference.
| Feature | Clipped Planchet Dime | Normal Roosevelt Dime |
|---|---|---|
| Edge | Missing a piece | Full, round edge |
| Design | Same as normal | Standard design |
Why It’s Worth So Much
The clipped planchet error is valuable because so few coins have it. Collectors love coins with minting mistakes, and the rarer the error, the higher the price. A Roosevelt dime with a clear clipped planchet in good condition can fetch up to $400,000 at auction, like one sold in 2024. The value depends on how big the clip is and how well-preserved the coin is. Even coins in average condition can sell for thousands, making the search worthwhile for anyone with a handful of change.
| Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Average | $1,000-$10,000 |
| Excellent | $100,000-$400,000 |
Where to Look for One
You don’t need to be a coin expert to find this treasure. Start by checking loose change from your wallet, piggy bank, or old jars. Look at dimes from the 1960s or 1970s, as these are more likely to have valuable errors. Coin rolls from banks, flea markets, or garage sales are also good places to search. Be patient, as these coins are hard to find. If you spot one, don’t clean it, as cleaning can lower its value. Store it in a soft cloth or coin holder to keep it safe.
What to Do If You Find One
If you think you’ve found a clipped planchet Roosevelt dime, stay calm and get it checked. Take it to a coin dealer or a grading service like PCGS or NGC to confirm it’s real. They’ll also tell you how much it’s worth based on its condition and the size of the clip. You can sell it at an auction, through a dealer, or keep it as a prized possession. Finding one is a thrilling moment, and it could turn a simple dime into a life-changing discovery. So, start looking through those coins today.