How Much is a Dime Worth?

Alistair Finch

About the Author

Professor Finch’s journey into the world of history was ignited by a childhood discovery: a small, tarnished Roman coin unearthed in his grandfather’s garden. This simple artifact sparked an enduring curiosity about the people and events of bygone eras.

He pursued this passion through his academic career, earning his Master’s degree from the University of Cambridge and his doctorate from the University of Oxford, specializing in early modern British history.

Top 20 Most Valuable Roosevelt Dime Coins Worth Money

NameEstimated ValueMintage
1975 No S Proof Roosevelt Dime$456,0002-5 Known
1968 No S Proof Deep Cameo Type 2 Clad Roosevelt Dime$40,250Approx. 12-14 Known
1951 Proof Deep Cameo Type 1 Silver Roosevelt Dime$23,50057,500
1956 Proof Deep Cameo Type 1 Silver Roosevelt Dime$19,975669,384
1950 Proof Deep Cameo Type 1 Silver Roosevelt Dime$18,80051,386
1999-D Roosevelt Dime Type 2 Clad Regular Strike$14,375Estimated Low
1966 SMS Special Strike Type 2 Clad Roosevelt Dime$12,500Estimated Few Thousand
1946 Type-1 Silver Roosevelt Dime Regular Strike$12,650255,250,000
1983 No S Proof Deep Cameo Type 2 Clad Roosevelt Dime$10,560Approx. 3,000-3,500
1954 Proof Deep Cameo Roosevelt Dime$9,400233,300
1955 Roosevelt Dime (Regular Strike)$9,30012,450,181
1948 Full Band Type 2 Clad Roosevelt Dime Regular Strike$8,05074,950,000
1949-S Roosevelt Dimes FB (Regular Strike)$6,00013,510,000
1948-D Roosevelt Dimes FB (Regular Strike)$4,31352,841,000
1950 Roosevelt Dimes CAM (Proof)$4,34851,386
1965 Roosevelt Dimes SMS (Special Strike)$2,000Estimated Few Thousand
1982-P No Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime (Strong Strike)$200 – $260Approx. 75,000
1964-D Doubled Die Reverse Roosevelt Dime$100 – $1701,379,590,000
1963-P Doubled Die Reverse Roosevelt Dime$30 – $40178,463,700
1996-W Roosevelt Dime$20 – $251,457,000
Listed prices are approximate and may vary depending on the coin’s condition, market demand, and other factors.

High-Value Roosevelt Dimes

1975 No S Proof Roosevelt Dime

Obverse and reverse of the 1975 No S Proof Roosevelt Dime

Historical Context

For those curious about how much is a dime worth beyond its face value, the answer often lies in its history and condition. The mid-1970s saw a growing interest in coin collecting, making errors like this particularly sought after as tangible anomalies in a standardized system.

MintCompositionWeight (grams)Diameter (mm)
Philadelphia 75% Copper, 25% Nickel bonded to a 100% Copper core2.2717.91

Rare Error Facts

Collectors frequently ask what dimes are worth money, hoping to discover a valuable piece among their pocket change. This is one of the most famous and rarest modern U.S. coin errors. These proof dimes were mistakenly struck at the San Francisco Mint without the S mint mark. The error occurred because a working die intended for a Philadelphia No Mint Mark proof dime was used instead of one with the S mint mark.

1968 No S Proof Deep Cameo Type 2 Clad Roosevelt Dime

Obverse and reverse of the 1968 No S Proof Deep Cameo Type 2 Clad Roosevelt Dime

Historical Context

The late 1960s were a period of social and political change globally, and while seemingly unrelated, these numismatic errors provide a small, tangible snapshot of the intricacies of a large-scale operation like the U.S. Mint during that era. Understanding how much does a dime weigh in grams is crucial for authentication and distinguishing it from similar-sized foreign coins.

MintCompositionWeight (grams)Diameter (mm)
Philadelphia 75% Copper, 25% Nickel bonded to a 100% Copper core2.2717.91

Rare Error Facts

This No S proof error is also very scarce, though not as rare as the 1975 issue. It occurred when a proof die lacking the S mint mark from San Francisco was used. Estimates suggest that only a few dozen examples exist across all grades. The actual how much does a dime cost to produce is a figure that fluctuates with metal prices and minting expenses.

1951 Proof Deep Cameo Type 1 Silver Roosevelt Dime

Obverse and reverse of the 1951 Proof Deep Cameo Type 1 Silver Roosevelt Dime

Historical Context

The year 1951 falls within the post-World War II era, a time of economic recovery and increasing interest in collecting hobbies in the United States. Anyone holding pre-1965 coins might wonder how much is a silver dime worth due to its precious metal content.

MintCompositionWeight (grams)Diameter (mm)
Philadelphia90% Silver, 10% Copper2.5017.91

Rare Error Facts

The U.S. Mint did not intentionally produce cameo or deep cameo proofs during this era; these designations are assigned by grading services to coins exhibiting exceptional contrast between the frosted devices and mirrored fields. The total how much are dimes worth in circulation represents a significant portion of the U.S. monetary supply, while individual valuable dimes are a tiny fraction.

1956 Proof Deep Cameo Type 1 Silver Roosevelt Dime

Obverse and reverse of the 1956 Proof Deep Cameo Type 1 Silver Roosevelt Dime

Historical Context

The mid-1950s in the United States were a period of economic prosperity and a burgeoning middle class, which contributed to the growth of leisure activities like coin collecting. Determining what is a dime worth requires examining factors beyond its mere ten-cent denomination.

MintCompositionWeight (grams)Diameter (mm)
Philadelphia90% Silver, 10% Copper2.5017.91

Rare Error Facts

The allure of finding rare dimes worth money drives many to meticulously inspect their coins. Similar to the 1951 proof dimes, 1956 proof Roosevelt dimes with the Deep Cameo designation are significantly more valuable than standard proofs. The strong contrast between the frosted elements and the brilliant fields is not a common characteristic of the original mintage. Identifying dimes that are worth money often involves recognizing specific mint marks, dates, and error types.

1950 Proof Deep Cameo Type 1 Silver Roosevelt Dime

Obverse and reverse of the 1950 Proof Deep Cameo Type 1 Silver Roosevelt Dime

Historical Context

The year 1950 marks the midpoint of the 20th century, a time of significant social and political developments following World War II and the onset of the Cold War. The question of how much are silver dimes worth is answered by considering the current spot price of silver and numismatic demand. As a 1950 coin, it features the original Type 1 design of the Roosevelt dime.

MintCompositionWeight (grams)Diameter (mm)
Philadelphia90% Silver, 10% Copper2.5017.91

Rare Error Facts

The excitement of discovering rare error dimes worth money can turn a casual collector into a serious numismatist. The 1950 proof Roosevelt dime holds the distinction of being the first year of proof production for this series. Examples exhibiting a Deep Cameo contrast are particularly rare and sought after.

1999-D Roosevelt Dime Type 2 Clad Regular Strike

Obverse and reverse of the 1999-D Roosevelt Dime Type 2 Clad Regular Strike

Historical Context

Researching what year dimes are worth money can reveal surprising values for seemingly ordinary coins. The transition to the Type 2 reverse on the Roosevelt dime in 1999 created a collectible variety for those who closely follow design changes in U.S. coinage. Regular strike coins are those intended for general circulation.

MintCompositionWeight (grams)Diameter (mm)
Denver75% Copper, 25% Nickel bonded to a 100% Copper core2.2717.91

Rare Error Facts

The rarity of the 1999-D Type 2 Roosevelt coin stems from a design change that occurred mid-year. The U.S. Mint subtly modified the reverse die, resulting in what collectors refer to as Type 1 and Type 2 reverses. The world of Roosevelt dimes worth money includes not just silver issues but also rare errors in clad coinage.

1966 SMS Special Strike Type 2 Clad Roosevelt Dime

Obverse and reverse of the 1966 SMS Special Strike Type 2 Clad Roosevelt Dime

Historical Context

Many collectors are interested in how much is a mercury dime worth due to its beautiful design, mintage year and silver content. The year 1966 was a time of significant social and cultural change in the United States, and this unique coinage reflects a temporary shift in the Mint’s operations.

MintCompositionWeight (grams)Diameter (mm)
Philadelphia75% Copper, 25% Nickel bonded to a 100% Copper core2.2717.91

Rare Error Facts

The simple inquiry dime worth money? is the starting point for many numismatic discoveries. The 1966 SMS coins themselves are a unique issue due to the temporary suspension of proof coin production. Within the 1966 SMS coins, variations and errors are less documented and generally less dramatic than in proof or regular strike issues.

1946 Type-1 Silver Roosevelt Dime Regular Strike

Obverse and reverse of the 1946 Type-1 Silver Roosevelt Dime Regular Strike

Historical Context

Discerning which dimes are worth money requires knowledge of key dates, mint marks, and varieties. The post-World War II era saw a renewed sense of national identity and remembrance, making this first-year issue a meaningful piece of American coinage history. Exploring old dimes worth money often leads to fascinating insights into American history and coinage.

MintCompositionWeight (grams)Diameter (mm)
Philadelphia90% Silver, 10% Copper2.5017.91

Rare Error Facts

The question are silver dimes worth anything? is easily answered with a resounding yes, due to their silver content. Examples of the 1946-P (Philadelphia) with a significant doubled die obverse are particularly sought after by error collectors and can command a substantial premium over regular 1946 coins in similar condition.

1983 No S Proof Deep Cameo Type 2 Clad Roosevelt Dime

Obverse and reverse of the 1983 No S Proof Deep Cameo Type 2 Clad Roosevelt Dime

Historical Context

The 1983 No S proof Roosevelt coin is another instance of a missing mint mark error from the San Francisco Mint during the production of proof sets. By the early 1980s, proof coin production was a well-established process aimed at collectors. To determine what is a silver dime worth, one must consider the current silver price and the coin’s condition.

MintCompositionWeight (grams)Diameter (mm)
Philadelphia 75% Copper, 25% Nickel bonded to a 100% Copper core2.2717.91

Rare Error Facts

The 1983 No S proof coin is another very rare modern proof error. Like the earlier No S errors, it lacks the S mint mark from the San Francisco Mint. It’s believed that only a very small number of these errors exist, likely a result of a single missing mint mark punch on a working die.

1954 Proof Deep Cameo Roosevelt Dime

Obverse and reverse of the 1954 Proof Deep Cameo Roosevelt Dime

Historical Context

The basic question how much a dime worth can lead to complex answers depending on the 10C in question. This 1954 proof Roosevelt coin, struck at the Philadelphia Mint, is a product of the mid-1950s, a period of increasing enthusiasm for coin collecting in the United States.

MintCompositionWeight (grams)Diameter (mm)
Philadelphia90% Silver, 10% Copper2.5017.91

Rare Error Facts

As with other proof silver Roosevelt 10 cents from the early to mid-1950s, the Deep Cameo designation is the key to rarity. Understanding how much do dimes cost can refer to either their face value or the expense of their production. Deep cameo examples represent a small fraction of the total 1954 proof mintage and are highly valued for their aesthetic appeal.

1955 Roosevelt Dime (Regular Strike)

Obverse and reverse of the 1955 Roosevelt Dime

Historical Context

The simple question how much is a dime? can have surprisingly varied answers depending on the context. While the total mintage for 1955 was relatively high, well-struck uncirculated examples can be of interest to collectors looking to complete date and mint mark sets of the silver Roosevelt 10 cents. The 1950s were a time of relative economic stability in the U.S., and coinage was a fundamental part of daily life.

MintCompositionWeight (grams)Diameter (mm)
Philadelphia90% Silver, 10% Copper2.5017.91

Rare Error Facts

For the 1955 Roosevelt coin, a notable error to look for is the Doubled Die Obverse. Examples exist where the features of Roosevelt’s face, the word LIBERTY, and IN GOD WE TRUST show a distinct doubling. These errors are a result of a mishap during the creation of the working die. Collectors of early U.S. coinage also often investigate liberty dimes worth money.

1948 Full Band Type 2 Clad Roosevelt Dime Regular Strike

Obverse and reverse of the 1948 Full Band Type 2 Clad Roosevelt Dime Regular Strike

Historical Context

The study of US dimes worth money encompasses a wide range of designs and historical periods. The Type 2 designation is also anachronistic for 1948 and likely a misidentification. The post-war years saw the Roosevelt dime in its early circulation, and well-preserved examples from this period are sought after by collectors of the silver series.

MintCompositionWeight (grams)Diameter (mm)
Philadelphia90% Silver, 10% Copper2.5017.91

Rare Error Facts

A list of dimes worth money can be extensive, covering numerous dates, mint marks, and errors. As noted before, 1948 10 cents were silver, not clad, and the Type 2 designation is incorrect for this year. If we consider a 1948 silver Roosevelt dime, the key to rarity lies in high grade with fully struck Full Bands (FB).

1949-S Roosevelt Dimes FB (Regular Strike)

Obverse and reverse of the 1949-S Roosevelt Dimes FB

Historical Context

The late 1940s were a period of post-war adjustment and economic growth in the United States, and coinage from this era reflects the everyday commerce of the time. Silver 10 cents with Full Bands represent a higher tier of quality for coins that circulated during this period. Understanding how much silver is in a dime is key to calculating its melt value.

MintCompositionWeight (grams)Diameter (mm)
San Francisco90% Silver, 10% Copper2.5017.91

Rare Error Facts

Actual minting errors for this date and mint mark are less commonly reported as major collectible varieties. However, as with any coin, significant errors like dramatic off-center strikes, major die breaks, or significant doubled dies would be considered rare and could attract collector interest, especially in higher grades. The question are mercury dimes worth anything? is quickly answered by their rarity, silver content and collector demand.

1948-D Roosevelt Dimes FB (Regular Strike)

Obverse and reverse of the 1948-D Roosevelt Dimes FB

Historical Context

The astonishing possibility of rare dimes worth millions captures the imagination of numismatists worldwide. As with other silver coins bearing the Full Bands designation, this feature makes it more attractive to collectors who value the crispness of the coin’s design. The late 1940s were a time of economic recovery and expansion in the U.S., and coins like this were integral to the nation’s commerce. The fundamental question how much is one dime worth can have simple or complex answers.

MintCompositionWeight (grams)Diameter (mm)
Denver90% Silver, 10% Copper2.5017.91

Rare Error Facts

While specific major errors aren’t widely known for this date and mint mark, any significant minting anomaly – such as a pronounced doubled die, a large off-center strike, or a major lamination error – found on a 1948-D dime, especially in well-preserved condition, would be considered rare and could be valuable to error collectors. Considering how much is dimes worth can refer to the total value of one’s collection or the circulating mintage.

1950 Roosevelt Dimes CAM (Proof)

Obverse and reverse of the 1950 Roosevelt Dimes CAM (Proof)

Historical Context

The year 1950 falls within a period of increasing interest in numismatics in the U.S., and proof sets from this era are valued for their historical significance and pristine condition. The query what dime is worth money is the central focus of many coin collectors. For 1950 proof Roosevelt dimes, the rarity lies in the Cameo (CAM) or, more significantly, Deep Cameo (DCAM) designation. These coins, with their frosted devices and mirrored fields, represent a small portion of the original proof mintage.

MintCompositionWeight (grams)Diameter (mm)
Philadelphia90% Silver, 10% Copper2.5017.91

Rare Error Facts

While not minting errors, the conditions that resulted in such strong contrast were not consistently achieved, making deep cameo examples scarce and highly sought after by proof collectors of the silver Roosevelt dime series.

1965 Roosevelt Dimes SMS (Special Strike)

Obverse and reverse of the 1965 Roosevelt Dimes SMS

Historical Context

For those holding pre-1965 coinage, silver dimes worth money is a key area of interest. The 1965 Roosevelt coin was part of a Special Mint Set (SMS) produced at the Philadelphia Mint. This occurred during a period when the U.S. Mint temporarily halted the production of proof coins due to a coin shortage. SMS coins have a distinctive satin-like finish that sets them apart from both regular business strikes and proof coins.

MintCompositionWeight (grams)Diameter (mm)
Philadelphia75% Copper, 25% Nickel bonded to a 100% Copper core2.2717.91

Rare Error Facts

Errors within the 1965 SMS 10 cents are less frequently discussed than errors in regular strikes or proof coins. However, variations in the satin finish or unusual striking characteristics specific to the SMS production could be considered minor rarities for specialists of this series. Researching what year of dimes are worth money can uncover hidden gems from specific periods.

1982-P No Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime (Strong Strike)

Obverse and reverse of the 1982-P No Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime
Obverse and reverse of the 1982-P No Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime

Historical Context

By the early 1980s, the copper-nickel clad composition was standard for dimes. While most business strike coins from this era are common, examples with exceptional strikes and in high grades are sought after by those building date and mint mark sets. The inquiry how much to make a dime delves into the economics of the U.S. Mint. The early 1980s were a period of economic recession in the U.S., and everyday coinage played a crucial role in commerce.

MintCompositionWeight (grams)Diameter (mm)
Philadelphia75% Copper, 25% Nickel bonded to a 100% Copper core2.2717.91

Rare Error Facts

The 1982-P dime lacking a mint mark is not an error, as Philadelphia-minted dimes did not carry a mint mark at that time. The Strong Strike refers to the quality of the coin. However, a true error for a 1982-P dime would be something like a significant off-center strike, a major die break, or a lamination peel.

1964-D Doubled Die Reverse Roosevelt Dime

Obverse and reverse of the 1964-D Doubled Die Reverse Roosevelt Dime

Historical Context

The year 1964 was the last year that U.S. money were composed of 90% silver, adding a historical significance to all 10 cents from this year. Error coins from this period are of particular interest to numismatists who specialize in minting varieties and errors. The early 1960s were a time of social and cultural upheaval in the United States, and even small anomalies in the nation’s coinage can be seen as minor reflections of the complexities of the era.

MintCompositionWeight (grams)Diameter (mm)
Denver90% Silver, 10% Copper2.5017.91

Rare Error Facts

The 1964-D Doubled Die Reverse is a well-known and sought-after error in the Roosevelt money series. The doubling is most noticeable in the lettering of UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and E PLURIBUS UNUM on the reverse.

1963-P Doubled Die Reverse Roosevelt Dime

Obverse and reverse of the 1963-P Doubled Die Reverse Roosevelt Dime

Historical Context

The year 1963 was a significant one in American history, marked by events such as the March on Washington and the assassination of President Kennedy. Coins from this period are tangible reminders of that era.

MintCompositionWeight (grams)Diameter (mm)
Philadelphia90% Silver, 10% Copper2.5017.91

Rare Error Facts

Similar to the 1964-D DDR, the doubling is visible on the reverse inscriptions. While perhaps not as dramatic or as widely collected as some other doubled die errors in U.S. coinage, it is still a desirable variety for collectors of Roosevelt dimes and error coins.

1996-W Roosevelt Dime

Obverse and reverse of the 1996-W Roosevelt Dime

Historical Context

This 1996-W Roosevelt 10 coin was a special issue struck at the West Point Mint to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Roosevelt money. It was included in uncirculated coin sets for that year and was not released into general circulation.

MintCompositionWeight (grams)Diameter (mm)
West Point75% Copper, 25% Nickel bonded to a 100% Copper core2.2717.91

Rare Error Facts

As a special issue included only in uncirculated sets, the 1996-W coin itself is not an error. However, errors occurring on these 1996-W 10 cents would be considered rare due to their limited mintage and intended collector distribution.

Collecting coins offers a fascinating glimpse into history, art, and culture through tangible objects. It’s a rewarding hobby that combines the thrill of the hunt with the satisfaction of building a unique and potentially valuable collection over time.