In the fascinating world of coin collecting, a small piece of metal can sometimes be worth a fortune. Among the most famous examples is the rare 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime, which has shocked collectors and investors with its staggering valuation of up to $500,000.
At first glance, it looks just like an ordinary dime. But the absence of a tiny “S” mint mark transforms it into one of the most coveted and valuable coins in U.S. history. Only a handful of these dimes are known to exist, making them treasures of unimaginable worth.
The History of the Roosevelt Dime
The Roosevelt Dime was first introduced in 1946 to honor President Franklin D. Roosevelt after his death. It replaced the Mercury Dime and quickly became a widely circulated U.S. coin.
Dimes were produced at several mints, including:
- Philadelphia (no mint mark)
- Denver (D)
- San Francisco (S) – typically produced proof coins for collectors
By the 1970s, the San Francisco Mint was well known for its proof coins, which bore the “S” mint mark. But in 1975, something unusual happened.
The 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime Error
The 1975 Roosevelt Dime that lacks the “S” mint mark is not a regular issue coin. It was part of a proof set, which should always display the “S” for San Francisco Mint.
- A minting mistake caused a few proof dimes to be struck without the S mark.
- These coins were accidentally released in proof sets sold to collectors.
- Only two confirmed examples are known today, making this dime one of the rarest in existence.
Why Is It Worth $500,000?
The value of the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime comes from three major factors:
- Extreme Rarity – With only two confirmed specimens, it is rarer than many gold coins.
- Minting Error – Error coins often carry huge premiums, especially when from proof sets.
- Collector Demand – Coin collectors and investors are willing to pay massive sums to own such an elusive piece.
At auctions, these dimes have consistently sold for astronomical prices, sometimes approaching half a million dollars.
How to Identify the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime
If you have a 1975 proof set, here’s what to check:
- Look for the Roosevelt Dime in the set.
- Check the area near the date on the front (obverse) of the coin.
- If there is no “S” mint mark, you might have the legendary 1975 No-S Dime.
Note: Regular 1975 dimes from Philadelphia also lack a mint mark, but those are not valuable. The key is that the No-S Dime comes only from proof sets.
Auction History and Market Value
- In 1978, the first known 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime was discovered in a proof set.
- Since then, only two have been authenticated by grading companies.
- At auction, these coins have fetched up to $456,000, with estimates often placing them near $500,000 in today’s market.
Collectors consider it a “Holy Grail” coin because of its rarity and legendary status.
Importance to Collectors
The 1975 No-S Dime represents more than just money. It highlights how even modern U.S. coins can carry immense collectible value. For numismatists, it’s proof that mistakes in minting can create treasures worth more than gold.
For new collectors, it’s a reminder to always check your proof sets and circulation coins carefully—you never know what might be hiding in plain sight.
Other Rare “No-S” Coins
The 1975 No-S Dime is not the only coin with this type of error. Other famous No-S proof coins include:
- 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime
- 1970 No-S Roosevelt Dime
- 1983 No-S Roosevelt Dime
- 1990 No-S Lincoln Cent
These coins are also rare and valuable, though none reach the same level as the 1975 No-S Dime.
Future Value Predictions
As time passes, the value of the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime is expected to rise even higher:
- Increased collector demand pushes auction prices up.
- Fewer coins are available since only two are known.
- Its legendary status in U.S. coin history ensures lasting appeal.
Some experts predict that if one comes up for sale again, it could surpass $500,000 and possibly approach $1 million in the future.
Conclusion
The 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime is more than just a piece of change—it’s a rare treasure worth up to $500,000. With only two examples known, it holds legendary status among collectors.
If you own old proof sets, it’s worth taking a closer look—you might be holding a dime that could change your life.
FAQs:
Why is the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime so rare?
Because it was a proof coin mistakenly struck without the “S” mint mark, with only two known examples.
How can I tell if my 1975 dime is valuable?
Only proof coins without the “S” mint mark are rare. Regular Philadelphia dimes from 1975 aren’t valuable.
How much is the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime worth today?
It has sold for up to $456,000 at auction, with estimates reaching nearly $500,000 in today’s market.
Where can I sell a rare 1975 No-S dime?
Through major auction houses, certified coin dealers, or grading companies like PCGS and NGC.