Coin collectors are always on the lookout for extraordinary finds, but few coins achieve legendary status. One such coin, a rare 1975 Roosevelt Dime, recently shattered records by selling for an astonishing $506,250 at an online auction. This small coin, originally worth just ten cents, has captivated numismatists with its unique story and extreme rarity.
What Sets This Dime Apart? The 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime is exceptional due to a minting mistake that omitted the “S” mint mark, which typically designates coins struck at the San Francisco Mint. Only two such error coins are known to exist, making this dime one of the rarest and most coveted coins in U.S. numismatic history.
Key Details of the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime:
- Coin: 1975 Roosevelt Dime
- Distinct Feature: Missing “S” mint mark
- Number of Known Examples: 2
- Original Proof Set Price: $7
- Latest Auction Price: $506,250
- Previous Record Price: $456,000 (2019)
- Error Discovery Year: 1975
The Unintentional Minting Error Mint marks are small but significant indicators of where a coin was produced: “D” for Denver, “P” for Philadelphia, “S” for San Francisco, and “W” for West Point. In 1975, the San Francisco Mint produced more than 2.8 million proof sets intended for collectors. Proof coins undergo special minting for enhanced detail and finish. However, in this case, two dimes were mistakenly struck without the “S” mint mark. This rare error went unnoticed until after the proof sets were sold, securing the No-S Dime’s place in numismatic lore.
The Family Legacy Behind the Coin One of the two known 1975 No-S Dimes carries a remarkable family story. Purchased in 1978 for $18,200, the coin became a cherished family heirloom, safely stored in a bank vault for over four decades. After the original owner’s passing, his sisters inherited the coin and decided to auction it in October 2023. The dime’s record-breaking sale at $506,250 turned a family keepsake into a life-changing windfall.
A History of Record-Breaking Sales This wasn’t the first time the 1975 No-S Dime achieved a remarkable sale. In 2019, the other known example sold for $456,000. The increasing value highlights a growing trend: collectors are willing to pay top dollar for coins with rare minting errors.
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The Appeal of Minting Errors Coins with minting errors, like the missing “S” on this dime, are prized for their rarity and the intriguing stories behind them. Such accidents during production make these coins unique and highly valuable. Collectors view these pieces not just as monetary investments but as historical artifacts that capture a moment of unexpected imperfection.
Treasure Hunting for Rare Dimes Inspired by the 1975 No-S Dime? Experts like Ian Russell, president of GreatCollections, suggest searching through old proof sets from 1975. While the chances of discovering another No-S Dime are slim, proof sets can still yield valuable finds.
Tips for Starting a Coin Collection:
- Begin with Proof Sets: Affordable and potentially full of interesting variations.
- Learn About Minting Errors: Recognizing common errors can help identify rare coins.
- Check Your Pocket Change: Everyday coins might hold hidden treasures.
- Join Numismatic Clubs: Networking can offer valuable collecting insights.
- Get Coins Appraised: Professional evaluations reveal a coin’s true value.
Final Thoughts The incredible journey of the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime proves that even a tiny minting mistake can lead to extraordinary value. From its humble origins to its record-setting sale, this coin exemplifies the perfect blend of history, artistry, and investment. Perhaps it’s time to check your coin collection—you might just hold the next numismatic treasure.