A Near Miss with a Fortune
Imagine nearly spending a dime that’s worth half a million dollars. That’s what happened to one lucky person who almost used a rare Roosevelt Dime in a shop, only to discover it’s valued at over $520,000. These small coins, still hiding in circulation in 2025, are catching collectors’ eyes due to a tiny minting error. A single dime could turn your pocket change into a life-changing windfall.
The Roosevelt Dime, first minted in 1946 to honor President Franklin D. Roosevelt, features his portrait on the front and a torch with olive and oak branches on the back. Most are worth just 10 cents, but certain ones from the 1960s, especially 1968, have a rare error: no mint mark where one should be. This mistake, combined with the coin’s silver content, makes some dimes incredibly valuable, especially if they’re in great condition.
Why Is It Worth So Much?
The value of these rare Roosevelt Dimes comes from a mix of history and minting errors. In 1968, the U.S. Mint was supposed to mark coins with a “D” for Denver or “S” for San Francisco, but a few dimes were struck without any mint mark, likely at the Philadelphia Mint. This error is rare, and collectors pay huge sums for it. A 1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime in top condition, graded as “Proof 70,” can fetch $520,000 or more at auction.
Condition is everything. A shiny, near-perfect dime is worth far more than a worn one. Here’s a quick guide to their estimated values based on condition:
| Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Poor/Fair | $500 – $2,000 |
| Good | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Very Fine | $50,000 – $100,000 |
| Proof 70 | $300,000 – $520,000+ |
How to Spot a Valuable Dime
Finding a rare Roosevelt Dime takes a sharp eye. Check the front of the coin for the year, focusing on 1968. Then, look below Roosevelt’s portrait for a mint mark—a “D” or “S.” If there’s no mark at all, you might have a winner. Also, check if the coin looks like a “proof” version, which has a shiny, mirror-like finish from being specially made for collectors. These No-S Proof dimes are the most valuable. The coin should feel slightly heavier than modern dimes due to its silver content.
If you think you’ve found one, handle it carefully to avoid scratches. Never clean it, as cleaning can ruin its value. Take it to a professional grading service, like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), to confirm it’s real and check its condition. Fakes and altered coins are out there, so an expert’s opinion is crucial before you start dreaming of a big payout.
A Collector’s Thrill
For coin collectors, a 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime is a prize worth chasing. These dimes are still in circulation, sometimes turning up in bank rolls, old coin jars, or even vending machines. One collector found a $300,000 dime in a pile of change from a laundromat, proving these treasures can appear anywhere. The coin’s link to the 1960s, a time of change in America, adds to its appeal, making it more than just money.
The No-S error happened because of a minting mistake, where proof coins were struck without the proper mint mark. This tiny slip-up creates a unique piece of history that collectors love. They share their finds at coin shows or online, sparking excitement and inspiring others to check every dime they come across for a potential fortune.
Could You Have One in 2025?
Even in 2025, these rare dimes are still out there, hiding in everyday transactions. Check any Roosevelt Dimes you find, especially from 1968. Look for the missing mint mark and a shiny proof finish. You might find one in a coin roll from the bank, a family heirloom, or even change from a shop. The person who almost spent their $520,000 dime only noticed it after double-checking their coins—a reminder to stay curious.
If you spot a possible winner, store it in a soft cloth or plastic holder to keep it safe. Get it appraised by a trusted coin dealer or grading service to confirm its value. A single dime could be worth more than a luxury car, turning a quick glance at your change into a life-changing moment. So next time you’re counting coins, take a closer look—you might just find a $520,000 treasure in your pocket.