The Roosevelt dime, a staple in American currency since 1946, might seem commonplace. However, certain rare variations can transform this everyday coin into a collector’s treasure worth hundreds of thousands of dollars. One such anomaly is the 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime, a coin so scarce that only two specimens are known to exist.
Understanding Mint Marks and Their Significance
Mint marks are small letters on U.S. coins indicating the minting location:
- P for Philadelphia
- D for Denver
- S for San Francisco
These marks are crucial for collectors, as they can significantly influence a coin’s rarity and value.
The 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime: A $200,000 Rarity
In 1975, the San Francisco Mint produced over 2.8 million proof sets, each containing a dime expected to bear the “S” mint mark. However, due to a minting error, two dimes were struck without this mark, creating the exceptionally rare 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime.
The rarity of this coin has led to remarkable auction results:
- 2011: One specimen sold for $349,600.
- 2019: Another fetched $456,000.
- 2024: The same coin from 2019 was resold for over $500,000.
These figures highlight the immense value attributed to this minting error.
Identifying a 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime
To determine if you possess this valuable coin, examine the following features:
- Date: The coin should display the year 1975.
- Mint Mark: Located above the date on the obverse side; the absence of an “S” indicates the error.
- Proof Quality: These coins have a mirror-like finish with sharp details, distinguishing them from regular circulation dimes.
Other Valuable No-S Proof Dimes
The 1975 No-S Proof Dime isn’t the only error coin of significant value. Here are other notable No-S Proof Dimes:
| Year | Description | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1968 | No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime | $31,102 |
| 1970 | No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime | $500+ |
| 1983 | No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime | $500+ |
These coins are highly sought after due to their rarity and the unique circumstances of their minting errors.
The Importance of Professional Appraisal
If you believe you have a 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime or any other rare coin, it’s essential to seek a professional appraisal. Certified numismatists can authenticate the coin and provide an accurate valuation, ensuring you understand its true worth.
While the chances of finding a 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime in circulation are exceedingly slim, understanding the significance of mint marks and being aware of rare coin variations can be both fascinating and rewarding. Regularly examining your coins and staying informed about numismatic rarities might just lead you to a hidden treasure.
FAQs
What is a mint mark, and where is it located on a Roosevelt dime?
A mint mark is a letter indicating the U.S. Mint facility where the coin was produced. On Roosevelt dimes, it’s located above the date on the obverse side.
Why is the 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime so valuable?
Its value stems from its extreme rarity; only two such error coins are known to exist, making it highly sought after by collectors.
How can I tell if my dime is a proof coin?
Proof coins have a mirror-like finish with sharp, detailed features, unlike regular circulation coins, which have a standard finish.
