The Roosevelt dime is the U.S. ten-cent coin that’s been in your pocket since 1946. But did you know this little coin tells a big story about one of America’s most important presidents—Franklin D. Roosevelt?
Let’s take a closer look at why this dime was created, what makes it special, and why coin collectors still care about it today
Why Roosevelt Is on the Dime?
After Roosevelt died in 1945, Americans wanted to honor him. Why? Because he led the country through two major crises: the Great Depression and World War II. On top of that, Roosevelt had polio, a disease that left him unable to walk. But instead of giving up, he helped create the March of Dimes, an organization that raised money to fight polio.
That’s why Congress quickly decided to put his face on the dime. It was the perfect way to honor his legacy and his battle against polio—literally connecting Roosevelt to every dime Americans spent.
Design and Symbolism
The first Roosevelt dime was made on January 19, 1946, and it came out on his birthday—January 30.
- Front of the coin: Roosevelt’s face, with the words “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the year.
- Back of the coin: A torch (freedom), an olive branch (peace), and an oak branch (strength). Together, they stand for Roosevelt’s courage and leadership.
The coin was designed by John R. Sinnock, and his initials “JS” appear at the bottom. Funny enough, some people once thought “JS” stood for Joseph Stalin! The Mint had to clear that up fast.
Changes Over Time
The first Roosevelt dimes were made of 90% silver and 10% copper. But in 1965, silver got too expensive, so the Mint switched to a mix of copper and nickel, which is still used today.
Even though the metal changed, the design stayed pretty much the same. Only small things like the location of mint marks have been adjusted.
Collectors’ Corner
Most Roosevelt dimes you find today are worth 10 cents. But if you find older silver dimes (before 1965), they can be worth more because of the silver.
Look out for:
- 1968 No-S Proof dime
- 1949-S dime (low mintage)
- Dimes with Full Bands on the torch (they’re sharply struck and more valuable)
These rare versions can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars!
Fun Facts
- The Roosevelt dime replaced the Mercury dime (1916–1945).
- Only one other U.S. coin (at that time) was designed by a Mint employee.
- The dime’s symbols represent liberty, peace, and strength—just like Roosevelt.
Conclusion
The Roosevelt dime is more than just a small coin—it’s a piece of history. It reminds us of a leader who overcame personal and national struggles with strength and hope. Whether you’re spending it or saving it, the dime carries Roosevelt’s powerful story in your pocket every day.
1. Why is Roosevelt on the dime?
Franklin D. Roosevelt is on the dime because he founded the March of Dimes and led the U.S. through the Great Depression and WWII.
2. Are any Roosevelt dimes valuable?
Yes! Dimes made before 1965 contain silver, and some rare dates or mint errors can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
3. What does the back of the Roosevelt dime symbolize?
The torch stands for liberty, the olive branch for peace, and the oak branch for strength—values Roosevelt strongly believed in.
