The 1970-S No S Proof Roosevelt Dime is one of the most intriguing and sought-after coins in numismatics, blending a rare minting error with a fascinating history. This coin, created due to an unexpected minting mistake, was released without the usual “S” mint mark, which typically indicates it was produced at the San Francisco Mint. The lack of the mint mark, combined with its accidental creation, has turned this coin into a coveted find for collectors, with values soaring as high as $1,300.
In this article, we dive into the details of this remarkable coin, its rarity, and what makes it so valuable in the world of coin collecting. We’ll cover how to identify it, what gives it such high value, and why it continues to captivate collectors decades after its release.
The 1970-S No S Proof Roosevelt Dime: A Brief Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 1970 |
| Mint Location | San Francisco |
| Mint Mark | Missing (No “S”) |
| Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel over a pure copper core |
| Diameter | 17.9 millimeters |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Finish | Proof with a high-quality, mirror-like surface and sharp details |
| Estimated Quantity | Approximately 2,000 coins |
| Value Range | $500 to $1,300, depending on condition |
The Story Behind the Coin’s Rarity
The Roosevelt Dime, first minted in 1946, commemorates President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s legacy, particularly his efforts in public health and his role in supporting the March of Dimes. Proof versions of this coin, specially made for collectors, are known for their exceptional finish and sharp detail. These coins generally carry a mint mark, with the San Francisco Mint marked by an “S” on the obverse side.
However, in 1970, a small number of these proof dimes were mistakenly struck without the “S” mint mark, creating a rare and highly desirable error coin. These dimes were originally part of proof sets distributed to collectors, but over time, some of them ended up in regular circulation, making them even more fascinating to discover today.
How to Identify the 1970-S No S Proof Roosevelt Dime
To confirm if you’ve found one of these rare coins, look for these key features:
- Missing Mint Mark: The most defining feature is the absence of the “S” mint mark above the date on the obverse side.
- Proof Finish: Unlike regular circulation coins, proof coins have a brilliant, mirror-like surface with sharp, detailed features.
- Rarity: Only around 2,000 of these error dimes were produced, making them one of the rarest U.S. coins.
Why Are These Dimes Found in Circulation?
Though originally intended only for collectors, some of these rare dimes have found their way into general circulation. This is due to a few reasons:
- Lack of Awareness: Many owners didn’t realize the coin’s significance and spent it as regular currency.
- Estate Sales and Liquidations: Rare coins often get mixed in with other items during estate sales or liquidations, allowing them to enter circulation without being recognized.
Because of this, there’s always a chance that the next time you receive change, you could find a valuable 1970-S No S Proof Roosevelt Dime.
How to Verify the Authenticity of the 1970-S No S Proof Roosevelt Dime
If you believe you’ve found one of these rare dimes, here’s how to verify its authenticity:
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- Examine the Mint Mark: Check above the date on the obverse side—if there’s no “S,” you may have found a genuine error coin.
- Inspect the Finish: Proof coins have a highly reflective, mirror-like finish, and their details are sharper than those on regular circulation coins.
- Check the Date: Only dimes minted in 1970 have this unique error, so make sure the coin’s date matches.
- Seek Professional Authentication: To confirm its authenticity and value, consider consulting a professional grading service or numismatist for an expert opinion.
Grading and Value of the 1970-S No S Proof Roosevelt Dime
The value of the 1970-S No S Proof Roosevelt Dime depends largely on its condition, as determined by its grade. Here’s an overview of how much it could be worth based on its grading:
| 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: These values are approximate and may fluctuate based on current market trends.
Other Notable “No S” Proof Coins
The 1970-S No S Proof Roosevelt Dime is part of a small but fascinating group of error coins. Other similar “No S” proof coins include:
- 1968 No S Proof Dime: Extremely rare, with only a handful known to exist.
- 1975 No S Proof Dime: Another highly sought-after error coin.
- 1983 No S Proof Dime: A more recent example of this minting mistake.
Tips for Aspiring Coin Collectors
Whether you’re new to coin collecting or a seasoned enthusiast, here are some tips for finding rare coins:
- Examine Proof Sets: Carefully inspect 1970 proof sets for the missing “S” mint mark on the dime.
- Check Loose Change: Always keep an eye out for dimes with a mirror-like, proof-like finish in your change.
- Consult Experts: If you think you’ve found a 1970-S No S Proof Roosevelt Dime, have it authenticated by professional grading services like PCGS or NGC.
- Stay Active in Auctions: Many rare coins, including the 1970-S No S Proof Dime, are featured in online auctions, so be on the lookout.
Final Thoughts
The 1970-S No S Proof Roosevelt Dime is more than just an error coin—it’s a piece of history and a thrilling discovery for collectors. With its rarity and the possibility of finding one in circulation, this coin remains one of the most exciting treasures in the world of numismatics. If you’re lucky enough to find one, you could be holding a rare coin worth over $1,300.
Have you ever come across a rare coin in your change? Share your story, and don’t forget to explore other articles on hidden numismatic gems. Happy hunting!