The 1970-S No S Proof Roosevelt Dime is one of the most intriguing and valuable coins in the world of numismatics. This coin, a product of a minting error, was released without the expected “S” mint mark, typically used to denote coins minted at the San Francisco Mint. The result was a rare find that continues to captivate collectors even today. Some of these coins even made their way into circulation, giving collectors the chance to discover a hidden gem worth as much as $1,300.
In this article, we explore the unique characteristics of the 1970-S No S Proof Roosevelt Dime, its history, and why it is considered one of the rarest U.S. dimes in existence.
Overview of the 1970-S No S Proof Roosevelt Dime
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 1970 |
| Mint Location | San Francisco |
| Mint Mark | Missing “S” |
| Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel over a pure copper core |
| Diameter | 17.9 millimeters |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Finish | Proof, with a glossy, mirror-like surface and sharp details |
| Estimated Quantity | Around 2,000 coins |
| Value Range | $500 to $1,300 depending on the coin’s condition |
The Origin of the Error The Roosevelt Dime, first minted in 1946, honors Franklin D. Roosevelt and his dedication to public health, particularly his support for the March of Dimes. Proof versions of the dime are highly sought after for their exceptional quality, featuring a shiny, mirror-like finish and intricate details. Proof coins from 1970 were expected to bear the “S” mint mark, signifying their production at the San Francisco Mint.
However, due to a minting mistake, a small number of these coins were issued without the “S” mint mark. This error created a rare and highly collectible coin, and some of these dimes eventually made their way into general circulation.
Key Features of the 1970-S No S Proof Roosevelt Dime To identify this rare coin, look for these distinctive features:
- No Mint Mark: The most obvious sign of this rare dime is the absence of the “S” mint mark above the date on the obverse side.
- Proof Finish: Unlike regular circulation coins, this dime has a mirror-like surface and sharply defined details, indicative of its proof quality.
- Rarity: With only about 2,000 of these coins believed to have been struck, this is one of the rarest U.S. dimes ever produced.
Why Some of These Coins Are in Circulation Although the 1970-S No S Proof Roosevelt Dime was never intended for circulation, some of these error coins have surprisingly found their way into everyday transactions. Here are some reasons why this might have happened:
- Unawareness: Original owners or their heirs might not have recognized the coin’s rarity, leading them to spend it like any other dime.
- Estate Sales: Rare coins can get mixed in with other belongings during estate sales or liquidations, which may lead to them being accidentally released into circulation.
As a result, you might be lucky enough to stumble upon one of these rare dimes while checking your change.
How to Identify the 1970-S No S Proof Roosevelt Dime If you suspect you’ve found this rare dime, here’s how you can confirm its authenticity:
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- Check the Mint Mark: Examine the obverse side above the date. If there’s no “S” mint mark, it could be the rare 1970-S No S Proof Roosevelt Dime.
- Inspect the Finish: Proof coins feature a shiny, reflective surface and sharp details. The dimes’ mirror-like appearance is a key indicator.
- Verify the Date: Ensure the coin is dated 1970. This error only occurred with dimes from this year.
- Professional Authentication: If you think you’ve found one, it’s a good idea to have it authenticated by a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC.
Grading and Value of the Coin The value of the 1970-S No S Proof Roosevelt Dime varies depending on its grade, which reflects its condition. Here’s an estimated value breakdown:
| Grade | Description | Estimated Value (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| PR65 | Gem Proof | $500 – $700 |
| PR66 | Choice Gem Proof | $700 – $900 |
| PR67 | Superb Gem Proof | $900 – $1,100 |
| PR68 | Near Perfect Proof | $1,100 – $1,300 |
| PR69 | Virtually Flawless Proof | Over $1,300 |
Note that these values are approximate and may fluctuate based on the coin’s current market demand.
Other “No S” Proof Coins The 1970-S No S Proof Roosevelt Dime is part of a small series of similar error coins. Other notable “No S” proof coins include:
- 1968 No S Proof Dime: Extremely rare, with only around a dozen known to exist.
- 1975 No S Proof Dime: Another highly coveted error coin.
- 1983 No S Proof Dime: A more recent example of this minting mistake.
Tips for Aspiring Collectors If you’re passionate about coin collecting, here are some tips to help you track down this rare dime:
- Inspect Proof Sets: Carefully examine 1970 proof sets for a missing mint mark on the dime, which could indicate a valuable find.
- Check Your Change: Look for dimes with a reflective, mirror-like finish, especially if they are dated 1970.
- Consult Experts: Have your coin authenticated by a professional grading service if you believe you’ve found a 1970-S No S Proof Roosevelt Dime.
- Watch Auctions: Rare coins often appear at online auctions, where you might have the opportunity to acquire one.
Conclusion The 1970-S No S Proof Roosevelt Dime is not only an error coin but a fascinating treasure for collectors. Its rarity, along with the possibility of finding one in circulation, makes it a prized possession in the numismatic world. If you’re fortunate enough to come across one, you could hold a valuable piece of history worth over $1,300.
Have you ever discovered a rare coin in your change? Share your story with us, and don’t forget to explore more articles on hidden numismatic treasures. Happy hunting!