Imagine stumbling upon a tiny coin in your change jar that turns out to be worth a fortune. That’s the surprising reality for a select few who’ve come across the ultra-rare 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime. Valued at up to $500,000, this rare dime isn’t just a collector’s dream—it’s a reminder to double-check the ordinary-looking coins in your pocket. A small minting mistake made this coin one of the most valuable dimes in U.S. history.
1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime
The Roosevelt Dime has been minted since 1946, and proof versions are typically made at the San Francisco Mint with the “S” mintmark clearly visible. However, in 1975, a limited number of proof dimes were accidentally struck without the “S” mintmark. These “No-S” dimes were part of special proof sets and are not supposed to exist. Only two confirmed examples of the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime have ever surfaced, making it an extreme rarity. When these coins appear in auctions, they command prices up to half a million dollars.
How the Mint Error Happened
The U.S. Mint produces proof coins for collectors, and these coins typically feature mirror-like finishes and detailed strikes. In the case of the 1975 No-S dime, the die used to strike some proof coins did not have the “S” mintmark, which should have indicated it was minted in San Francisco. It’s believed that the mistake occurred due to a mint worker installing a mintmark-less die meant for use at another facility or before the mintmark was added. The error wasn’t discovered until the proof sets had already been distributed.
3 Other Rare Roosevelt Dimes Worth Knowing
- 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime – Another rare proof error missing the San Francisco mintmark, this dime can fetch between $20,000 and $30,000.
- 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime – A Philadelphia-minted dime missing the “P” mintmark, it’s more common than the 1975 No-S but still highly valuable, often selling for $300–$600 in circulated condition.
- 1949-S Roosevelt Dime (Full Bands) – While not an error coin, this variety is rare in high grades with strong strike detail, especially with fully separated torch bands.
The 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime is a testament to how small details can lead to big value. With only two known to exist, it’s one of the rarest and most valuable modern U.S. coins ever discovered. If you happen to own a 1975 proof set or come across one at a sale or estate auction, it’s worth examining closely. You just might be holding half a million dollars in your hand.
FAQ’s:
1. How many 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dimes exist?
Only two confirmed examples are known to exist, both discovered in proof sets.
2. How do I identify a 1975 No-S dime?
Check the obverse side of a 1975 proof dime—if there’s no “S” mintmark below the year, you may have the rare coin.
3. Where were these No-S dimes found?
Both known examples were found in 1975 proof sets sold by the U.S. Mint.
4. Are all proof dimes from 1975 valuable?
No, only the dimes missing the “S” mintmark hold extreme value.
5. How can I get my coin authenticated?
Contact a reputable coin grading company like PCGS or NGC for professional evaluation and certification.
