Imagine finding a dime in your pocket change that’s worth thousands of dollars. It sounds unbelievable, but for some lucky collectors and sharp-eyed coin enthusiasts, it’s reality. Certain U.S. dimes that lack a mint mark—a small but critical detail—can be worth up to $20,000 or more. These rare coins are the result of unique production errors and limited minting periods, making them highly sought after by collectors. Let’s take a closer look at the three dimes without a mint mark that are making headlines in the numismatic world.
1. 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime
The 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime is one of the most famous and valuable mint error coins in U.S. history. In 1982, a small number of dimes were accidentally struck without the “P” mint mark that designates coins made at the Philadelphia Mint. Only a few of these dimes slipped through quality control and entered circulation, making them extremely rare.
Collectors prize this coin because it’s the first modern U.S. coin to be mistakenly minted without a mint mark. A well-preserved example in high-grade condition can sell for over $20,000 at auction.
2. 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime (Proof)
While proof coins are not intended for circulation, some do make their way into the hands of collectors. The 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime is a proof coin that should have been struck with the “S” mint mark to indicate it came from the San Francisco Mint. However, due to an error, a very limited number were made without this identifying mark.
Because this coin was part of a special proof set and not meant for circulation, its rarity is even more pronounced. A pristine version of this dime has been known to sell for $15,000–$20,000, depending on condition and demand.
3. 1970 No-S Roosevelt Dime (Proof)
Another proof coin that shares a similar story is the 1970 No-S Roosevelt Dime. Intended to include the San Francisco mint mark, this dime was mistakenly struck without it. Like the 1968 version, it was included in a limited run of proof sets before the error was discovered.
Fewer than 3,000 of these coins are believed to exist, and their scarcity makes them a hot commodity for collectors. A high-grade example can easily reach $10,000–$15,000, and prices continue to climb as more collectors become aware of its existence.
These three dime varieties—1982 No-P, 1968 No-S, and 1970 No-S—may look like any other dime at first glance, but they’re treasures hiding in plain sight. If you’ve ever bought a roll of dimes or have spare change lying around, it’s worth giving them a closer look. Spotting one of these could turn your pocket change into a $20,000 payday.
FAQ’s:
1. How can I tell if a dime is missing a mint mark?
Look closely at the area just above the date on the coin’s front (obverse). If the coin lacks a mint mark and the year matches one of the rare dates, it could be valuable.
2. Are all dimes without mint marks valuable?
No, most modern dimes made in Philadelphia before 1980 don’t have mint marks and are common. Only specific years like 1982 (No-P) or proof errors are valuable.
3. Where should I take a rare dime to get it verified?
Visit a certified coin dealer or send it to a grading service like PCGS or NGC for professional authentication and valuation.
4. Can these dimes still be found in circulation?
While extremely rare, it’s possible to find them in circulation or in old coin rolls. Most valuable examples are discovered through careful searching.
5. What should I do if I find one of these dimes?
Handle it carefully, avoid cleaning it, and seek a professional appraisal. A genuine no-mint mark error coin can fetch thousands on the collector market.
