1975 “No S” Roosevelt Dime- The $500,000 Coin You Could Own!
The 1975 “No S” Roosevelt Dime is one of the rarest and most sought-after coins in U.S. history. With only two known examples, this dime has become a numismatic marvel and a dream find for collectors.
If you’ve ever wondered about the value and significance of this unique error coin, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know, from its origin to its staggering auction prices.
What Makes the 1975 “No S” Roosevelt Dime Unique?
The 1975 “No S” Roosevelt Dime is a proof coin that was accidentally struck without the “S” mintmark, which typically denotes coins minted in San Francisco.
Unlike standard dimes produced for circulation, this coin was created as part of a special Proof Set intended for collectors.
Key factors that make this coin exceptional:
- Error Type: Missing “S” mintmark, a critical design element for proof coins from the San Francisco Mint.
- Rarity: Only two verified examples are known to exist.
- Auction Value: The most recent sale of one of these coins fetched $506,250 in 2024.
How to Differentiate Between Proof and Circulation Coins
It’s essential to distinguish between proof coins and business-strike coins:
| Feature | Proof Coins | Circulation Coins |
|---|---|---|
| Finish | Deeply mirrored fields with frosted devices | Standard, less polished appearance |
| Mintmark | Typically features the “S” mintmark | May have “P,” “D,” or no mintmark |
| Purpose | Created for collectors | Produced for everyday use |
| Packaging | Sold in special Proof Sets | Distributed through Federal Reserve Banks |
Proof coins are visually stunning, with a sharp contrast between the shiny background (fields) and the frosted design elements.
The absence of the “S” mintmark on a proof dime from 1975 sets it apart from circulation dimes, making it a prized collectible.
History and Auction Record of the 1975 “No S” Roosevelt Dime
The 1975 “No S” Dime came to light through a unique series of events. It was part of Proof Sets intended for collectors, but due to a minting error, the “S” mintmark was omitted on a few coins.
- First Discovery: The first coin was discovered in California within a sealed Proof Set and sold for $38,550 in 1979.
- Record-Breaking Sale: One of the two known examples sold for $506,250 in 2024 at GreatCollections.
Given its extreme rarity, any additional discovery of a 1975 “No S” Roosevelt Dime would undoubtedly spark tremendous excitement in the numismatic community.
How to Authenticate a 1975 “No S” Dime
If you suspect you’ve found a 1975 “No S” Roosevelt Dime, follow these steps:
- Examine the Coin: Ensure it has the mirrored, polished surface of a proof coin.
- Check the Mintmark: Confirm the absence of the “S” mintmark.
- Professional Grading: Submit the coin to reputable grading services like PCGS or NGC for authentication.
Keep in mind that the odds of finding this coin are incredibly slim. However, proper authentication is essential to verify its legitimacy and value.
The 1975 “No S” Roosevelt Dime stands as a testament to the allure of rare coins. Its extraordinary rarity, combined with its minting error and proof coin status, has solidified its place as a numismatic legend. With auction prices exceeding $500,000, this coin remains a collector’s dream.
While finding this particular dime is highly improbable, it underscores the importance of inspecting coins for unique features.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious hobbyist, the world of coin collecting holds countless opportunities to uncover hidden treasures. Check your Proof Sets and spare change—you might just discover the next big find!
FAQs
Why is the 1975 “No S” Roosevelt Dime so valuable?
Its value stems from its extreme rarity (only two examples are known) and its unique minting error. This combination makes it highly desirable among collectors.
How much is a standard 1975 Roosevelt Dime worth?
Circulation-strike 1975 dimes without a mintmark are common and typically worth their face value of 10 cents unless in uncirculated condition.
Can I find a 1975 “No S” Roosevelt Dime in circulation?
No, this coin was part of Proof Sets and not intended for circulation. Finding one in loose change is nearly impossible.
