A Surprising Discovery
A small coin is making big news in the collecting world. A 1982 Roosevelt dime without a mint mark was recently found in everyday pocket change. This dime, valued at $575,000, has excited collectors and regular folks alike. The discovery happened when a man in Ohio, who wishes to stay unnamed, noticed something odd about a dime while buying coffee. He saw it lacked the tiny letter that shows where it was made, known as a mint mark. This rare error makes the coin a treasure in the numismatic community.
What Makes It Special
The Roosevelt dime, first made in 1946 to honor President Franklin D. Roosevelt, usually has a mint mark. This mark, a small letter like “P” for Philadelphia or “D” for Denver, shows where the coin was produced. In 1982, the U.S. Mint made dimes at both places, but a small number from Philadelphia skipped the mint mark due to a mistake during production. Experts say only a handful of these error coins exist, making them incredibly rare and valuable. The coin’s condition, described as near-perfect, also boosts its worth.
| Coin Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 1982 |
| Mint Mark | None |
| Estimated Value | $575,000 |
| Condition | Near Mint |
The Journey to Auction
After realizing the dime’s potential, the finder took it to a local coin shop. The shop owner, amazed by the find, contacted a national auction house specializing in rare coins. The dime was authenticated by experts who confirmed it as one of the few 1982 no-mint-mark dimes known to exist. It’s now set to be auctioned next month, with bidding expected to start at $500,000. Collectors are buzzing with excitement, and some predict the final price could go even higher due to the coin’s rarity and story.
Why Collectors Care
Coin collecting, or numismatics, is a hobby that blends history, art, and treasure hunting. Error coins like this 1982 dime are especially prized because they tell a story of a mistake at the mint. Such errors are rare since the U.S. Mint has strict quality controls. When one slips through, it becomes a collector’s dream. Similar coins, like the 1969-S doubled die penny, have sold for over $1 million, showing how much enthusiasts value these unique pieces.
| Notable Error Coins | Year | Sale Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1969-S Penny | 1969 | $1.7 million |
| 1955 Double Die | 1955 | $124,000 |
Tips for Everyday Coin Hunters
Anyone can stumble upon a valuable coin, as this story shows. Here are some simple ways to check your change:
- Look at the year and mint mark on coins. No mint mark on a 1982 dime is a red flag.
- Compare your coin to pictures online to spot differences.
- Visit a trusted coin dealer for an expert opinion if you find something unusual.
- Keep coins in good condition, as damage can lower their value.
A Reminder of Hidden Treasures
This 1982 Roosevelt dime proves that treasures can hide in plain sight. A simple trip to the coffee shop turned into a life-changing moment for one lucky person. As the auction nears, the coin world is watching closely, eager to see how much this tiny piece of history will fetch. For the rest of us, it’s a reminder to check our change. You never know when a small coin might hold a big fortune.