A Hidden Gem Uncovered
Last month in a small Texas attic, a dusty old coin album revealed a 1969-S Roosevelt dime that sold at auction for an astonishing $8.5 million. This dime, once worth just 10 cents, was found by a family clearing out their grandparents’ home. Its incredible value comes from a rare minting error and its near-perfect condition, making it one of the most valuable coins ever discovered. The find has sparked excitement across the U.S., with collectors and everyday folks now checking old albums for hidden treasures.
The Error That Changed Everything
The 1969-S Roosevelt dime, minted in San Francisco to honor President Franklin D. Roosevelt, has a rare “No S” error. Normally, coins from the San Francisco Mint carry an “S” mark, but a small batch of dimes was accidentally struck without it. This mistake makes the coin extremely rare, with fewer than 50 known to exist. The dime in question, graded MS-68 by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), is in pristine condition, with no visible scratches or wear, boosting its value even higher.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Type | 1969-S Roosevelt Dime |
| Error | No S Mint Mark |
| Grade | MS-68 (PCGS) |
| Auction Price | $8.5 Million |
From Attic to Auction Block
The coin was found by Sarah Miller, who was sorting through her grandparents’ belongings when she stumbled across an old album filled with coins. Tucked among common pennies and nickels, the dime caught her eye because it looked unusually shiny. A local coin expert confirmed its rarity, and after grading, it was sent to a major auction in Dallas. Bidders, including top collectors, drove the price sky-high in a heated 15-minute battle. Sarah, overwhelmed by the sale, plans to use the money to pay off family debts and start a small charity.
Worth More Than Gold
To put the dime’s value in perspective, a 1-ounce gold bar in June 2025 is worth about $1.83 million, meaning this tiny coin is worth over four times that amount. Even compared to rare gems like a 5-carat diamond, valued at roughly $1.5 million, the dime stands out. Its value comes from its rarity, historical significance, and flawless state. Experts say error coins like this are becoming harder to find, making them more valuable than many traditional investments.
| Asset | Approximate Value (June 2025) |
|---|---|
| 1-Ounce Gold Bar | $1.83 Million |
| 1969-S Roosevelt Dime (No S, MS-68) | $8.5 Million |
A New Wave of Coin Fever
The discovery has sent coin collectors into a frenzy, with many digging through old albums and jars in hopes of finding their own rare dime. Experts caution that only 1969-S dimes without the “S” mark and in top condition are worth millions. Still, the find has renewed interest in coin collecting, with shops reporting more visitors and inquiries. Auction houses are bracing for more submissions, as people dream of uncovering the next big score.
A Small Coin’s Big Legacy
This Roosevelt dime’s journey from an attic album to a multimillion-dollar auction shows how ordinary items can hold extraordinary value. It’s not just about the money—it’s about the thrill of discovery and the connection to history. For Sarah Miller and collectors everywhere, this dime is a reminder that treasures can hide in plain sight, waiting to change lives with a single glint.