The Roosevelt dime has been a staple in American coinage since its release in 1946, commemorating President Franklin D. Roosevelt. While many of these dimes are relatively common, certain rare versions are highly sought after by collectors.
In fact, some of these Roosevelt dimes could be worth $50,000 or even more. Here’s a closer look at the rarest Roosevelt dimes that have captured the interest of collectors, and what makes them so valuable.
1949-D Roosevelt Dime
The 1949-D Roosevelt dime is one of the earliest issues of this coin, minted at the Denver Mint. This specific version is considered rare due to its lower mintage and because few have been found in excellent condition.
Coins in mint-state quality, without scratches or wear, tend to be more valuable. Collectors are especially interested in high-grade 1949-D dimes, particularly those with Full Bands, which refers to clear horizontal bands across the torch on the reverse side.
1950-S Roosevelt Dime
The 1950-S dime from the San Francisco Mint is notable for its scarcity in pristine condition. Only a few examples exist with strong details and Full Bands, making it a valuable find for collectors. In top conditions, the 1950-S dime can reach impressive prices at auction, especially those preserved in original mint-state quality.
1963 Roosevelt Dime (Double Die Reverse)
Double die coins are often highly prized because of the unique visual doubling on the coin’s details. The 1963 Roosevelt dime with a double die reverse is one such example. The doubling on this coin’s reverse side can be seen in areas like the lettering or torch details. This distinctive feature, along with its rarity, makes it a high-value coin among Roosevelt dimes.
1964-D Roosevelt Dime (Full Bands)
While the 1964-D dime isn’t exceptionally rare by its mintage, finding one with Full Bands detail is extremely difficult. Coins graded with Full Bands (FB) are especially appealing to collectors, as the bands across the torch on the reverse side remain fully visible and defined.
Such coins often achieve much higher values, and those in top-notch condition can be worth thousands of dollars.
1982 No Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime
One of the most famous mint errors, the 1982 No Mint Mark Roosevelt dime is an intriguing coin with a missing mint mark, which typically signifies the Philadelphia Mint.
In 1982, some dimes were mistakenly struck without a mint mark, creating an instant rarity. Collectors actively seek out this coin, with prices reaching significant levels for specimens in top condition.
1996-W Roosevelt Dime
The 1996-W Roosevelt dime was specially issued by the West Point Mint to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Roosevelt dime. This version bears a “W” mint mark and was included in select uncirculated coin sets. Because this dime was produced in limited numbers, it remains a valuable piece among Roosevelt dimes. High-grade versions of the 1996-W dime can bring in substantial amounts.
1960 Roosevelt Dime (Proof with Double Die Obverse)
The 1960 Roosevelt dime with a double die obverse is a rare find among proof coins. Double die varieties, especially those on proof coins, are sought after due to their unique features.
This particular coin shows noticeable doubling on the obverse side, often in the year or other design details. Collectors pay a premium for such coins, especially those in excellent proof quality.
| Coin Name | Mint Location | Year | Unique Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1949-D | Denver | 1949 | Full Bands | Up to $50,000 |
| 1950-S | San Francisco | 1950 | Full Bands | Up to $30,000 |
| 1963 | N/A | 1963 | Double Die Reverse | Up to $10,000 |
| 1964-D | Denver | 1964 | Full Bands | Up to $9,000 |
| 1982 | N/A | 1982 | No Mint Mark | Up to $20,000 |
| 1996-W | West Point | 1996 | Special Minting | Up to $5,000 |
| 1960 | N/A | 1960 | Proof Double Die Obverse | Up to $8,000 |
Collecting Roosevelt dimes can be both enjoyable and rewarding, particularly when rare variations like these emerge. By looking for details such as mint marks, doubling, or Full Bands, collectors can identify valuable coins that might otherwise go unnoticed.
The history, unique features, and demand among collectors continue to drive up the value of these rare dimes, making them worthy investments for numismatic enthusiasts.
FAQs
Certain Roosevelt dimes are valuable due to low mintage, unique features like double dies or Full Bands, and mint errors like missing mint marks. High-grade, well-preserved dimes are also more sought after by collectors.
Full Bands (FB) refer to visible and uninterrupted horizontal bands on the torch on the reverse side of the dime. A coin grading expert can verify Full Bands details if you’re unsure.
No, only specific dimes without mint marks, such as the 1982 No Mint Mark error, are valuable. Regular Philadelphia dimes lack a mint mark but are not necessarily rare or valuable.
You can sell rare Roosevelt dimes at coin shows, through auction houses, or by consulting a numismatic dealer who specializes in rare coins.
A double die coin has a design that appears doubled due to a misalignment during the die-making process. This doubling often increases the coin’s value due to its rarity.
