Dimes are some of the smallest coins in your pocket—but they can hold huge value if they contain the right minting error. Experts in the coin-collecting world are urging people to check their change, especially dimes from specific years and mints that may feature rare errors. These imperfections, created during the coin’s production process, are not just fascinating—they can turn an ordinary 10-cent coin into one worth thousands. Here are three rare dimes you should be hunting for right now.
1. 1982 No Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime
The 1982 Roosevelt dime with no mint mark is one of the most well-known error coins. Normally, dimes minted in Philadelphia after 1980 include a “P” mint mark. But in 1982, a few dimes were mistakenly struck without this identifier. These coins look completely ordinary unless you know what to check for—just look under Roosevelt’s neck on the obverse side. If there’s no letter, and it’s from 1982, you may have struck gold. High-grade examples of this error have sold for $1,500 to over $2,000.
2. 1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime
Proof coins are high-quality versions of regular coins, struck with special dies and intended for collectors. In 1968, a small number of proof Roosevelt dimes were mistakenly struck without the “S” mint mark (indicating the San Francisco Mint). These 1968 No-S proof dimes are exceptionally rare—only a few dozen are known to exist. Because they were part of proof sets, they are often well-preserved and can sell for $15,000 to $25,000, depending on condition and demand.
3. 1970 Roosevelt Dime Struck on a Penny Planchet
One of the most dramatic minting errors is a coin struck on the wrong metal blank, or planchet. A few 1970 Roosevelt dimes were struck on copper penny planchets, resulting in a reddish coin that’s smaller and lighter than a standard dime. These oddballs are extremely rare and visually distinct, making them a favorite among error coin collectors. A 1970 dime with this planchet error can command $5,000 to $10,000 at auction, and sometimes more for high-grade examples.
A Tiny Coin Could Bring a Huge Payday
You might not think twice about the dimes sitting in your pocket, but taking a closer look could be well worth your time. These rare error dimes—from missing mint marks to misstruck metals—are turning up in collections, jars, and even pocket change. If you come across a strange-looking dime, or one with no mint mark when it should have one, don’t spend it—you could be holding a coin worth thousands.
FAQ’s:
1. How can I tell if my dime has a minting error?
Start by checking the mint mark under Roosevelt’s neck. Look for missing marks, unusual coloring, or off-center designs.
2. What is a planchet error?
A planchet error occurs when a coin is struck on the wrong type of blank metal disc. It results in coins with different size, weight, or color.
3. Are these rare dimes still in circulation?
Some, like the 1982 no-mint-mark dime, can still turn up in change. Others, like proof errors, are usually found in old collections.
4. What should I do if I think I found a valuable dime?
Avoid cleaning it and take it to a reputable coin dealer or submit it to a professional grading service for evaluation.
5. Is every 1982 dime without a mint mark valuable?
No—only certain ones from specific dies are rare. A professional appraisal can confirm whether yours is one of the valuable ones.
