If you’ve ever emptied your pockets and tossed your loose change into a jar without a second thought, you might want to take a closer look—because among those everyday coins could be a dime worth thousands. Some rare Roosevelt dimes, dating back decades or even as recently as 2020, have fetched eye-popping prices at auction due to unique minting errors, limited production runs, or high-grade conditions.
While it’s true that most dimes are only worth their face value, a handful of them—often due to missing mint marks or wartime materials—have become prized collectibles. And the best part? Many are still believed to be in circulation, tucked away in coin jars, desk drawers, or even between couch cushions.
Here are 10 of the rarest and most valuable American dimes you could still find in everyday change.
1. 1965 Roosevelt Dime (No Mint Mark)
The majority of 1965 dimes were produced at the Philadelphia Mint and lack a mint mark. While most aren’t particularly valuable, collectors search for the few mistakenly made from 90% silver. High-grade examples or silver composition versions can be worth over $1,000, especially if verified and graded.
2. 1968-S No-S Roosevelt Proof Dime
This coin is extremely rare due to a minting error during proof production. Only 18 examples of the 1968 No-S proof dime have been certified by PCGS. These error coins, lacking the “S” mint mark, have sold for more than $40,000, making them one of the most valuable modern dimes ever struck.
3. 1970-S Roosevelt Dime (No Mint Mark)
This variation was also produced in error, with a few dimes escaping the mint without the “S” designation. These No-S proof dimes typically sell for around $250 if found in good condition, with higher values for near-perfect examples.
4. 1972-S Roosevelt Dime
While not rare in general, high-grade proof versions of this coin have fetched significant prices at auction. In 2008, a MS70 copper-nickel clad proof sold for $8,400. Standard circulated versions are usually worth face value, but flawless specimens can bring a strong premium.
5. 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime
Arguably the most valuable Roosevelt dime ever, only two known examples of the 1975 No-S proof dime exist. One sold for a staggering $456,000 due to its extreme rarity and mint error status. If you come across a 1975 proof dime without a mint mark, have it professionally evaluated immediately.
6. 1982 and 1983 Roosevelt Dimes (No Mint Mark)
In the early 1980s, the Philadelphia Mint mistakenly released some dimes without the “P” mint mark. These can sell for $65 to $175, depending on condition. The 1983-S proof version is also noteworthy due to its limited production and distinct mirror-like finish.
7. 1996-W Roosevelt Dime
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Roosevelt dime design, the U.S. Mint released a special 1996-W dime. Only 1.457 million were made, and they were distributed exclusively through collector’s uncirculated sets. As the only non-bullion circulating coin ever struck at the West Point Mint, these can sell for well over $100 in top condition.
8. 1998-P Bonded Group Error Dimes
This is one of the most unusual and unique minting errors recorded. A malfunction at the mint created a bonded group of 32 distorted dimes fused together. While this bonded group is now accounted for, it underscores the value that significant minting errors can hold. Single mint errors from this year could also attract attention and value.
9. 1999-D Roosevelt Dime (Type 2 Clad Regular Strike Error)
A rare Type 2 error strike of the 1999-D Roosevelt dime, preserved in pristine condition, once sold for $14,375 in 2009. While circulated versions are not worth much, collectors actively seek out high-grade, uncirculated specimens with error profiles.
10. 2020-D Roosevelt Dime
Although not old, this coin became noteworthy due to the lower-than-usual production during the pandemic year. In 2021, one example in exceptional condition sold for $338 on eBay. However, most others are worth no more than $15 unless graded mint state.
What Makes a Dime Valuable?
Several factors can elevate a 10-cent coin into four- or five-figure territory:
- Minting errors like missing mint marks or doubled dies
- Limited mintage, especially proof coins not intended for wide circulation
- Metal content, particularly coins produced before 1965 which contain 90% silver
- Condition, with high-grade examples certified by services like PCGS or NGC commanding the highest premiums
Where to Look for Rare Dimes
You don’t need to be a professional numismatist to find one of these gems. Many valuable coins have been discovered in:
- Inherited coin collections
- Estate sales
- Coin rolls from banks
- Forgotten coin jars
- Random pockets, purses, or couch cushions
If a dime looks off, is missing a mint mark, or is from a key year, set it aside and investigate further.
Final Thought: That Dime in Your Pocket Could Be Worth Thousands
These rare dimes prove that history, rarity, and value can come in small packages. With just a little attention to detail and some background knowledge, a seemingly ordinary coin could be your ticket to a surprising payday.