The 3 Most Valuable Dimes You’ve Never Heard Of

For coin collectors, rare dimes can be hidden treasures, worth far more than their face value. While many are familiar with classic rarities like the 1894-S Barber dime, there are some lesser-known dimes that have fetched astonishing prices due to minting errors and extreme scarcity. Here are three of the most valuable dimes you’ve probably never heard of—and they could still be out there waiting to be discovered.

1. 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime

In 1975, the San Francisco Mint produced proof sets of coins with an “S” mint mark. However, a few Roosevelt dimes were mistakenly struck without the “S,” making them exceptionally rare. Only two examples of the 1975 No-S Proof Dime are known to exist, and their rarity has made them highly valuable in numismatic circles.

One of these dimes sold at auction in 2019 for $456,000. In 2024, another example set a new record, selling for $506,250. These figures make this dime one of the most sought-after modern U.S. coins. If another example ever surfaces, it could command an even higher price at auction.

For official U.S. Mint information on coin proof sets, visit www.usmint.gov.

2. 1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime

Similar to the 1975 error, some 1968 Roosevelt dimes were mistakenly minted without the “S” mint mark. Since proof dimes from the San Francisco Mint are supposed to bear an “S,” the absence of this mark makes these coins highly valuable.

One of the finest known 1968 No-S Proof Dimes, graded PR68 by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), sold for $25,200 in 2023. While not as rare as the 1975 No-S dime, this error remains a valuable find for collectors and investors alike.

For details on coin grading and authentication, visit the Professional Coin Grading Service at www.pcgs.com.

3. 1998-P Bonded Group Roosevelt Dime

Unlike the first two entries, which are notable for their missing mint marks, this 1998 Roosevelt dime is famous for a unique minting error. A rare production mishap caused 32 dimes to be fused together in a “bonded” formation, resulting in a single coin group weighing an astonishing 72.3 grams. This type of error is extremely rare, making this coin an extraordinary find for collectors.

The 1998-P Bonded Group Roosevelt Dime sold at auction on August 13, 2011, for $9,200. While not as high-value as the previous two dimes, it remains a significant and intriguing piece in numismatic history.

For information on U.S. Mint production errors, visit the U.S. Treasury Department at www.treasury.gov.

How to Spot a Valuable Dime?

While these specific dimes are extremely rare, they serve as a reminder that valuable coins can still be found in circulation or inherited collections. Here are some key tips to help you identify valuable dimes:

• Check the Mint Mark: Coins without expected mint marks (such as “S” on proof coins) may be valuable errors.
• Look for Unusual Features: Coins with double strikes, bonded groups, or other anomalies can fetch high prices at auction.
• Examine the Coin’s Condition: The better the condition, the higher the potential value. Coins graded “Proof” or “Mint State” are often the most valuable.
• Get a Professional Appraisal: If you suspect you have a valuable dime, consult a professional coin grading service like PCGS or the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) (www.ngccoin.com).

Conclusion

While many people overlook dimes as mere pocket change, the stories of these three rare and valuable coins prove that small denominations can hold significant worth. If you ever come across a Roosevelt dime with an unusual feature, it might be worth much more than ten cents. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, staying informed about rare coin values can lead to exciting discoveries and substantial profits.