Whether a seasoned collector or newly interested, the Roosevelt Silver Dime’s historical context, design elements, composition, and value can enhance your appreciation. This article delves into the coin’s nuances, offering detailed insights into its background, valuable dimes, design features, and rare issues.
Death of a President
The Roosevelt Dime was introduced in 1946 to honor President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who had passed away in 1945. Roosevelt’s choice was fitting due to his strong association with the March of Dimes, a campaign to combat polio.
Roosevelt Dime Design
The obverse of the Roosevelt Dime, designed by John R. Sinnock, features a portrait of Franklin D. Roosevelt.
The reverse showcases a torch symbolizing liberty flanked by olive branches representing peace and oak branches representing strength. The coin has 118 reeds around the edge.
Roosevelt Silver Dime Mintage Years
The Roosevelt Dimes, minted from 1946 until 1964, was struck with 90% silver and 10% copper. These coins were once used for daily transactions until the debasement of coinage in 1965. Most circulated Roosevelt Silver Dimes are worth melt value. However, some can carry significant numismatic value, depending on their condition.
Roosevelt Silver Dime Value Chart
The value of a Roosevelt Silver Dime is based on its intrinsic melt value, condition, and other factors that can increase its worth. Below is a breakdown of estimated values based on different conditions:
ConditionEstimated Value Range
Good $1.50 – $2.00
Fine $2.00 – $3.00
Extra Fine (XF45) $3.00 – $4.50
About Uncirculated (AU) $4.50 – $6.00
Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) $6.00 – $10.00
MS66 $25.00 – $50.00
1964 Roosevelt Dime (Last Year of 90% Silver)
1964 marked the final year that U.S. dimes were struck with 90% silver, making these dimes valuable for their silver content. High-grade uncirculated examples, minting errors, and proofs from this year carry additional value.
1968-S Roosevelt Dime (No-S Proof Error)
A few 1968-proof dimes from the San Francisco Mint were struck without the “S” mintmark. This No-S error on proof dimes is rare and highly sought after and can command significant premiums in the collector market.
1973-S Roosevelt Dime (Proof in High Grades with Cameo or Deep Cameo Finish)
Proof dimes from the early 1970s, especially those with a cameo or deep cameo finish, are valuable to collectors. The cameo effect shows a frosted, raised design against a mirrored background. These high-grade proof coins hold additional value, especially those graded PR69 or higher.
1965 Roosevelt Dime (Transitional Error on Silver Planchet)
Although technically a 1965 coin, this transitional error is a valuable collector’s item. Due to a minting oversight, some 1965 dimes were struck on leftover 90% silver planchets instead of the new copper-nickel clad planchets. If a 1965 dime weighs around 2.5 grams (indicating it’s silver rather than clad), it’s a rare and valuable error.
