Collecting Roosevelt Dimes: History, Values and Key Dates

Posted by Andrew Adamo on Feb 20th 2024

Collecting Roosevelt Dimes

Franklin Delano Roosevelt, or FDR, was the only U.S. president who served three terms from 1932 to 1945. During that period, he took the country out of the Great Depression and guided it through World War II while also transforming the country in many lasting ways such as by establishing Social Security to help ensure that older Americans would be able to avoid poverty. In honor of his contributions and to commemorate his leadership, the United States Mint introduced the Roosevelt dimes in 1946, a year after his death. This coin features his profile on the obverse, symbolizing his efforts and impact on the nation.

Franklin Roosevelt also developed polio while he was in office and became a champion of the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis, which raised money for victims of the disease and helped fund research for a cure. The foundation asked Americans to send a dime, which how the organization came to be known as the March of Dimes.

Roosevelt dime

FDR died on April 12, 1945. The Treasury Department rushed plans to issue a dime in his honor because of his work with the March of Dimes and because he is one of the three most popular presidents in our history. Mint Director Nellie Taylor Ross made plans to release the new coin on what would have been his 64^th birthday, January 30, 1946, which is when they debuted.

The coin was designed by John R. Sinnock, who served as the Mint’s Chief Engraver from 1925 all the way until 1947. He created a left-facing profile of FDR for the obverse, and for the reverse an image with a torch representing liberty in the middle, an olive branch for peace on the right and an oak branch for victory on the left.

Though it is one of the longest-running circulating U.S. coin series, Roosevelt dimes have tended not to receive great attention from collectors, which is likely due partly to the fact that it is series without a major rarity except for certain variety coins or many low-mintage coins.

As a workhorse circulating coin with a lower denomination, mintages of Roosevelt dimes are mostly very high beginning with about 350 million for the 1946 P, D and S coins and reaching as many as almost 4 billion a year in the early 2000s.

Silver Roosevelt dimes

At the same time, there are many good reasons to collect this series beginning with the fact that even though all issues from 1946 to 1964 are made of 90% silver (and 10% copper with a net silver weight of .07234 ounces per coin), the series is very affordable and easy to assemble. Since 1965 the coins have been struck in clad like our quarters and half dollars except for the silver proofs issued since 1992. Silver proof dimes were initially issued from 1950 to 1964 and clad proofs since 1969.

A basic uncirculated set (about MS63 for most coins) can be had or about $350. In addition, rolls of silver Roosevelt dimes are readily available in circulated condition, uncirculated and even proof.

Roosevelt dime value

At current silver spot value at the time of writing (Sept. 2), one of these Roosevelt dimes has a melt value of $1.98. An MS60 is worth $3, an MS63 $6 and an MS65 $14. But in the top grades, prices get much steeper with an MS68 commanding $390 and MS69 (the highest grade) $2500.

But those prices do not include the values for coins in which the two lower bands of the torch on the reverse are separated, which are known as FB (Full Bands) or FT (Full Torch). For a basic type coin through the MS66 grade, there is little difference in pricing compared to coins without full details, but in MS67 they are worth $90 (compared to $30 without FB) and in MS68 $1650 (compared to $390 without FB).

Similarly, a complete set in MS67 without errors or varieties (of which there are many) runs about ten times the cost of an MS63 set, or about $3500, but with FB, it jumps to over $20,000!

Roosevelt dime key dates

The key dates for this series in terms of the lowest mintages include primarily: 1949-S, 1955, 1955-D and 1955-S

1949-S is the second-lowest mintage regular issue coin (with 13.5 million made) after the 1955 (12.5 million), but in mint state it is the rarest issue apart from special anniversary coins and errors and varieties. In MS67 it is worth $80 but in the top grade of MS68 it jumps to $2150 and with FB it reaches $850 in MS67 and even more for MS67+.

1955 is $100 in MS67 and reaches $700 with FB. 1955-D and 1955-s have similar mintages (under 20 million each). 1955-D is worth $115 in MS67 and $185 with FB, but an MS68FB is an amazing $7,000! 1955-S is just $45 in MS67 and $1400 with FB, which shows why it is important to study those details.

The 1996-W is the only mint state dime with that mintmark and the lowest mintage BU coin of the series with 1,457,000 struck. It was issued as a bonus coin in that year’s mint set of 11 coins to mark the dime’s 50^th anniversary. The top grade for this one is MS69 with 7 graded by PCGS in that condition worth an estimated $400 each, while an MS67 is only $30. Thousands have been graded at the MS65-68 level, but there must be more MS69s out there waiting to be found!

The only Reverse Proof coin is the 2015-P with a mintage of 75,000 that was part of the three-coin silver set for the 75^th anniversary. This coin is worth $50 in SP69 and $90 in RP70 but sold for more when the sets were first issued.

Roosevelt Dime Errors

Roosevelt dimes, first minted in 1946 and still in production today, have seen several notable error varieties over the years. These errors can significantly increase the value of the coins among collectors. Here are some of the most valuable Roosevelt dime error varieties:

1946-S Double Die Obverse (DDO): This variety features doubling on the date and on Roosevelt's lips. It's one of the earliest recognized doubled die varieties in the Roosevelt dime series.
1949-S Over S (RPM): This repunched mint mark (RPM) error shows a clear "S over S" mintmark. The secondary "S" is visible under the primary mint mark, making it a sought-after variety by collectors.
1960-D Over D (RPM): Another repunched mint mark error, the 1960-D Over D features a secondary "D" mintmark punched over the first. This variety is particularly valuable in higher grades.
1963 Double Die Obverse: This error exhibits doubling on the date, "LIBERTY," and "IN GOD WE TRUST." It's a more subtle doubling than seen in some other doubled die varieties but still highly collectible.
1964-D Double Die Reverse (DDR): The 1964-D DDR is one of the most famous Roosevelt dime errors, with doubling visible on the torch, oak leaves, and olive branches on the reverse side of the coin. This variety is especially valuable due to its prominence.
1968-S Proof Double Die Obverse: This variety shows significant doubling on Roosevelt's profile and the inscriptions on the obverse. Proof coins with this error are particularly rare and valuable.
1970-D No S Proof: The 1970-D "No S" dime is a proof coin that was mistakenly struck without the "S" mintmark. This error occurred when a proof die was accidentally used to strike circulation coins. It's extremely rare and valuable.
1975 No S Proof: Similar to the 1970-D No S, the 1975 No S Proof dime is missing the "S" mintmark that should be present on all proof coins minted in San Francisco. This is one of the most valuable Roosevelt dime errors due to its rarity.
1982 No P: The 1982 No P dime lacks the "P" mintmark (which denotes the Philadelphia Mint) due to a mint error. This was the first year the "P" mintmark was used on dimes, and some were mistakenly left unmarked.
1996-W: While not an error coin, the 1996-W Roosevelt dime was minted at the West Point Mint and included in mint sets to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Roosevelt dime. Its limited mintage makes it more valuable than regular circulation dimes.

Most valuable Roosevelt dimes

The really valuable Roosevelt dimes of this series are the many errors and varieties, which are mostly found among the proof issues that are missing the mintmarks they should have.

The best-known is the 1968 no-S roosevelt dime that was part of that year’s clad proof set with only 21 examples graded by PCGS and other 14 Proofs with Deep Cameo. The record is almost $49,000 paid for an MS68 DCAM. Even in Proof 64-65 the coin is worth $12,000. Check your 1968 proof sets!

Other missing mintmarks proofs include 1970 no-S, 1975 no-S, 1982 no-P and 1983 no-S.

The king of the series is the 1975 no-S with just 2 known examples – an amazing modern rarity that sold for a record of $456,000 in 2019!

There are also double die coins like the 1960 double die obverse and the reverse doubled dies in 1963 and 1964-D and others. And there are also a number of condition rarities worth about $10,000 each in MS68FB.

While the chances of finding these super-rare issues are not high, there may be more examples out there and some rare varieties could even be found in your change.

Whether you want a basic mint state set of just the silver coins, or one the proofs or both, or perhaps a full graded set of all silver and clad issues including all but the rarest variety coins, there are many different ways to collect and enjoy Roosevelt dimes.

Who is on the dime?

The face on the United States dime is that of Franklin Delano Roosevelt (FDR), the 32nd President of the United States, who served from 1933 to 1945. The Roosevelt dime was first introduced in 1946, a year after his death, to honor his leadership and contributions, particularly his role in establishing the March of Dimes, which was initially created to fight polio, a disease that Roosevelt himself suffered from.

How much does a dime weigh?

A United States dime weighs 2.268 grams (approximately 0.08 ounces). This specification has been consistent since 1965 when the composition of the dime was changed to a clad construction of copper and nickel.

Roosevelt dimes worth money

Roosevelt dimes, first minted in 1946 to honor President Franklin D. Roosevelt, are generally common, but certain varieties and errors can be quite valuable. Here's a list of some Roosevelt dimes that are known to be worth more than their face value, especially in higher grades or due to their rarity:

1949-S Roosevelt Dime

Key date for the series with lower mintages, especially sought after in high grades.

1955 Roosevelt Dime

Low mintage and popular with collectors, particularly in uncirculated condition.

1963 Double Die Roosevelt Dime

Features doubling on the obverse (front) of the coin, making it a sought-after error.

1964-D Roosevelt Dime with Pointed Tail 9

A variation in the 1964-D dimes where the tail of the "9" in the date is pointed. This variety is less common and sought after by collectors.

1968 No S Proof Roosevelt Dime

Proof coins are typically struck with an "S" mint mark for San Francisco, but a few were mistakenly produced without it. The "No S" dimes from various years (1968, 1970, 1975, 1983, and 1990) are particularly valuable.

1970 No S Proof Roosevelt Dime

Similar to the 1968 No S, the 1970 No S Proof Roosevelt Dime is extremely rare and valuable, as no proof dimes were supposed to be struck without the "S" mintmark.

1975 No S Proof Roosevelt Dime

One of the most valuable of the No S Proof dimes, with very few known examples. This coin can fetch tens of thousands of dollars.

1982 No P Roosevelt Dime

The first business strike dime missing a mint mark ("P" for Philadelphia). This error led to increased interest among collectors and is valuable, especially in higher grades.

1996-W Roosevelt Dime

Minted to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Roosevelt dime series, these were included in mint sets and not released for circulation, making them more valuable, especially in pristine condition.

2004-D Roosevelt Dime Double Ear

An error coin where the ear appears doubled. It's a modern rarity that has caught the attention of collectors.

Full Bands (FB) Roosevelt Dimes

Roosevelt dimes with full bands on the torch on the reverse are considered to be in higher condition and are more valuable. This designation applies to dimes from various years and is a sign of a well-struck coin.

FAQ

What are Roosevelt dimes?

Roosevelt dimes are a series of U.S. ten-cent pieces that have been minted since 1946. They were introduced to honor President Franklin D. Roosevelt because of his efforts in founding the March of Dimes, which aimed to combat polio. The obverse features Roosevelt's profile, while the reverse initially displayed a torch, olive branch, and oak branch, symbolizing liberty, peace, and victory, respectively.

What should I look for when collecting Roosevelt dimes?

When collecting Roosevelt dimes, look for coins with low mintage numbers, error coins, proof coins, and those with special mint marks. Collectors often seek out dimes from the early years of the series, particularly those minted in silver up to 1964. Error varieties and dimes with full bands (sharp, full horizontal bands on the torch on the coin's reverse) are also highly prized.

How can I tell if my Roosevelt dime is silver?

Roosevelt dimes minted in 1964 and earlier were made of 90% silver and 10% copper. You can identify these silver dimes by their date. Starting in 1965, the composition changed to a copper-nickel clad, in response to the rising cost of silver. The easiest way to determine if your dime is silver is by checking the year it was minted.

What are the most valuable Roosevelt dimes?

Some of the most valuable Roosevelt dimes include error coins, such as the 1982 No P, the 1968 No S Proof, and the 1975 No S Proof dimes. Early silver dimes in exceptionally high grades, especially those with full bands on the torch, can also be quite valuable. The 1949-S, 1950-S, and early proof dimes are among the sought-after by collectors for their rarity and historical value.

Where can I find Roosevelt dimes for my collection?

Roosevelt dimes can be found in circulation, but finding older or more valuable varieties this way is increasingly difficult. Coin shops, coin shows, online auctions, and coin collecting forums are good places to look for specific dimes to add to your collection. Joining a coin collecting club can also provide opportunities to trade with other collectors.

How do I store and care for my Roosevelt dime collection?

To preserve the condition of your Roosevelt dimes, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use acid-free holders, tubes, or albums designed for coin storage to protect them from environmental damage and handling. Handling your coins as little as possible and using cotton gloves when you do can help prevent oils from your skin from causing corrosion or wear.

Are there any common mistakes to avoid when collecting Roosevelt dimes?

One common mistake is cleaning your coins, which can significantly reduce their value and appeal to other collectors. Another mistake is not paying attention to the condition and strike quality of the coins you collect, as these factors greatly affect their value. Finally, ensure you're buying from reputable dealers or sources to avoid counterfeit or misrepresented coins.

Are there any specific storage or handling tips for preserving the condition of Roosevelt dimes, especially the silver ones?

Preserving the condition of Roosevelt dimes, especially those made of silver, requires careful handling and storage. To maintain their condition, collectors should keep the coins in a cool, dry place to prevent tarnishing and corrosion. Using individual coin holders, albums, or sleeves made from non-PVC materials can protect the coins from environmental damage and physical contact. Handling the coins by their edges rather than the faces can minimize the risk of fingerprints and scratches. For silver dimes, using silica gel packets in the storage area can help control humidity levels and further protect the coins from tarnishing.

How can collectors authenticate Roosevelt dimes, particularly when it comes to distinguishing between real and counterfeit coins?

Authenticating Roosevelt dimes involves examining several aspects of the coin, including its weight, dimensions, design details, and any known characteristics of the specific year and mint mark being examined. Collectors can use magnifying tools to closely inspect the coin's details for signs of authenticity, such as the sharpness of the design and the consistency with known mint marks and die marks for that issue. Comparing the coin with certified authentic examples or consulting with a professional numismatist or coin grading service can also provide authentication assurance. Recognizing common counterfeiting methods, such as cast copies or altered coins, is also crucial in the authentication process.

What are the most effective ways for collectors to acquire Roosevelt dimes, especially the rarer varieties and error coins mentioned?

Acquiring rarer varieties and error coins within the Roosevelt dime series often requires a combination of research, networking, and vigilance. Collectors can look for these special coins through reputable coin dealers, auctions, coin shows, and online marketplaces specializing in numismatic materials. Joining coin collecting clubs and forums can provide valuable insights and tips on finding specific varieties and errors. Additionally, building relationships with trusted dealers who can alert collectors to newly available rarities can be beneficial. For those seeking error coins, regularly checking circulation and newly minted coin rolls from banks can sometimes yield unexpected finds, as errors can occasionally escape the minting process and enter general circulation.

Categories