The Roosevelt dime has been a part of American pockets and piggy banks since 1946. More than just a small silver coin, it honors President Franklin D. Roosevelt—one of the most important leaders in U.S. history. He helped guide the country through the Great Depression and World War II and also took a strong stand against polio, a disease he personally battled.
Why the Roosevelt Dime Was Created
When President Roosevelt passed away in 1945, people wanted a way to remember him. The U.S. Mint chose the dime to honor him because of his support for the March of Dimes, a charity that helped raise money to fight polio. The very first Roosevelt dimes were made on January 19, 1946, and officially released on January 30—Roosevelt’s birthday.
Replacing the Mercury Dime
Before the Roosevelt dime, the U.S. used the Mercury dime, which featured a winged Liberty head. The switch to Roosevelt’s face was quick and easy—Congress didn’t even need to vote on it.
Design Details
Here’s what makes the Roosevelt dime special:
- Obverse (front): A side profile of President Franklin D. Roosevelt
- Reverse (back): A torch (for liberty) in the center, with an olive branch (for peace) on the left and an oak branch (for strength) on the right
- Designer: John R. Sinnock, Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint
- Material:
- 1946–1964: 90% silver, 10% copper
- 1965–today: Copper-nickel clad
Valuable Roosevelt Dimes to Watch For
Most Roosevelt dimes are worth just 10 cents. But some rare ones can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars! Here are a few that coin collectors dream of finding:
| Year & Type | Value (Approx.) | Why It’s Valuable |
|---|---|---|
| 1975 No-S Proof | $456,000 | Minted without an “S” mint mark by mistake |
| 1968 No-S Proof | $48,875 | Another missing “S” mint mark error |
| 1951 Deep Cameo | $23,500 | Rare, shiny proof with high contrast |
| 1964 Special Mint Set (SMS) | Varies by grade | Rare experimental coin in limited numbers |
| Various Cameo Proofs | Varies | Special shine and sharp details |
Note: These values are based on auction prices and can change depending on condition.
Why People Still Love the Roosevelt Dime
The Roosevelt dime has stayed mostly the same since 1946. It’s one of the most long-lasting and recognizable coin designs in U.S. history. Some people call it a “Rosie” or “Roosie,” and it’s a great coin to start a collection with. It’s affordable, easy to find, and full of history.
Fun Fact
Did you know the Roosevelt dime has no cents written on it? It’s one of the few coins that doesn’t spell out its value!
Conclusion
The Roosevelt dime is more than just a ten-cent coin—it’s a small symbol of a great man’s legacy. From helping fight polio to leading America through tough times, President Roosevelt’s memory lives on in millions of dimes across the country.
Whether you spend it or collect it, this coin reminds us of liberty, peace, strength—and the power of one person to make a difference.
FAQ’s
What makes a Roosevelt dime valuable?
Rarity, mint errors, and condition are the biggest factors. Proofs and no-mint-mark coins are especially prized.
What does the torch and branches mean on the dime?
The torch stands for liberty, the olive branch for peace, and the oak branch for strength.
Are Roosevelt dimes made of silver today?
No. Only dimes from 1946–1964 are 90% silver. Dimes today are made of copper and nickel.
