10 Rare Roosevelt Dimes 1973–2021: The Roosevelt Dime is one of the most iconic coins in American currency. First introduced in 1946, the coin was designed by John R. Sinnock and features a portrait of President Franklin D. Roosevelt on the obverse. The reverse design features a torch, olive branch, and oak branch, symbolizing liberty, peace, and strength. While Roosevelt Dimes are not generally considered rare or valuable in most cases, certain years and varieties have become highly sought after by collectors due to errors, low mintages, or other unique characteristics.
In this guide, we will explore ten of the rarest Roosevelt Dimes minted between 1973 and 2021. These coins stand out due to their rarity, historical significance, and collector demand. For collectors, knowing which coins to look out for can make all the difference between a modest collection and one that is truly valuable.
What Makes a Roosevelt Dime Rare?
Before diving into the specific rare coins, it’s important to understand what factors contribute to a Roosevelt Dime’s rarity and value. Several elements can make a coin rare and valuable, including:
1. Low Mintage Numbers
Coins that were minted in small quantities are often more valuable because they are harder to find in circulation. Over time, low-mintage coins tend to become more desirable, especially if they are part of a popular series like the Roosevelt Dime.
2. Mint Errors
Errors during the minting process can make a coin unique. For example, doubled dies, off-center strikes, and planchet errors can all significantly increase a coin’s value. Roosevelt Dimes with notable mint errors are especially popular among collectors.
3. Condition (Grade)
The condition of a coin is crucial in determining its value. Coins in higher grades (such as MS-65 or higher) are more valuable than coins that show wear and tear. For Roosevelt Dimes, coins that have been well-preserved and show minimal signs of use can fetch premium prices.
4. Special Editions or Commemorative Issues
Some Roosevelt Dimes were issued as special editions or part of a set, making them rare. Commemorative issues or coins released in specific years, such as those marking an anniversary, often carry a premium over regular production coins.
Top 10 Rare Roosevelt Dimes (1973–2021)
Now, let’s take a look at the top 10 rare Roosevelt Dimes minted from 1973 to 2021. These coins have gained significant attention from collectors due to their rarity, mint errors, or other unique features.
1. 1975 No S Proof Roosevelt Dime
The 1975 No S Proof Roosevelt Dime is one of the most famous and valuable coins in the Roosevelt Dime series. A mistake during the minting process at the San Francisco Mint resulted in a small number of proof dimes being struck without the “S” mintmark, which usually identifies coins minted in San Francisco. These coins are incredibly rare and highly sought after by collectors.
Only a small number of these No S dimes were released into circulation, making them among the rarest proof dimes ever produced. A well-preserved example can command a price well into the thousands.
- Estimated Value in 2026: $25,000+ (High Grade)
- Rarity: Extremely rare, with fewer than 20 examples known.
2. 1982 No P Roosevelt Dime
The 1982 No P Roosevelt Dime is another famous error coin. In 1982, the U.S. Mint mistakenly struck a small number of dimes without the “P” mintmark, which identifies coins produced at the Philadelphia Mint. This error makes the 1982 No P Dime one of the most sought-after Roosevelt Dimes in recent history.
Although the coin’s mintage was small, it was never widely released to the public, making it rare. Today, these coins are highly valuable and continue to be in high demand among collectors.
- Estimated Value in 2026: $1,500 – $2,500 (High Grade)
- Rarity: Rare, with fewer than 20 known examples.
3. 1996-W Roosevelt Dime (Proof)
The 1996-W Roosevelt Dime is a proof coin that was issued as part of the U.S. Mint’s special “W” mintmark series. Although the 1996-W Dime was produced in limited numbers for collectors, the coin was never released into circulation. Because of its limited mintage, the 1996-W Dime has become highly valuable, especially in higher grades.
The coin is unique due to the “W” mintmark, which identifies it as having been minted at the West Point Mint, a facility primarily used for producing gold and silver coins. Today, the 1996-W Dime is one of the most sought-after proof Roosevelt Dimes, with examples in excellent condition fetching high prices.
- Estimated Value in 2026: $1,000 – $2,000 (High Grade)
- Rarity: Rare, with only 1.4 million struck.
4. 1970-D Roosevelt Dime (High Grade)
The 1970-D Roosevelt Dime is a relatively common coin, but examples in high grades (such as MS-67 or higher) are highly sought after. Due to its relatively low mintage and the fact that it was part of a transitional year in U.S. coinage, the 1970-D Dime is valuable when found in pristine condition.
In average circulated condition, the coin is relatively inexpensive, but as the grade increases, so does the price. High-grade examples can fetch over $2,000 at auction.
- Estimated Value in 2026: $50 – $100 (Good Condition), $2,000+ (High Grade)
- Rarity: Rare in high grades.
5. 2009 Roosevelt Dime (Proof Set)
The 2009 Roosevelt Dime was part of a special proof set issued to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Lincoln Cent. As part of this anniversary series, the 2009 Dime was produced in limited quantities and was never released for circulation. These proof sets are highly valued by collectors, and the dimes within them are sought after due to their excellent condition and limited availability.
The 2009 Dime’s value is also affected by its status as a commemorative coin, which makes it more attractive to those collecting historical pieces.
- Estimated Value in 2026: $25 – $50 (Average Condition), $100+ (Proof Condition)
- Rarity: Rare in Proof sets.
6. 1992 Close AM Reverse (Mint Error)
The 1992 Close AM Reverse is a notable mint error that has made the 1992 Roosevelt Dime famous among collectors. This error occurred when the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” on the reverse of the coin were struck closer together than usual, creating a distinct difference from the regular coin’s design.
Coins featuring this error are extremely rare and can be worth several thousand dollars, depending on their condition.
- Estimated Value in 2026: $5,000+ (High Grade)
- Rarity: Extremely rare, with fewer than 10 examples known.
7. 1979-S Proof Roosevelt Dime (Deep Cameo)
The 1979-S Proof Roosevelt Dime with a Deep Cameo finish is a rare variant of the regular proof issue. The term “Deep Cameo” refers to the contrast between the frosted details of the portrait and the highly polished background, which makes the coin appear to have a more striking, three-dimensional quality.
Deep Cameo proofs are highly collectible and are valued at a premium compared to regular proofs.
- Estimated Value in 2026: $200 – $400 (High Grade)
- Rarity: Rare, with only a few examples of Deep Cameo coins in high grade.
8. 1997-S Roosevelt Dime (Proof, With Cameo)
The 1997-S Roosevelt Dime, issued as part of a proof set, features a Cameo finish. This finish is typically characterized by a frosted image against a mirror-like background. Proof coins with Cameo finishes are highly desirable to collectors and can fetch much higher prices than standard proofs.
- Estimated Value in 2026: $75 – $150 (Proof, High Grade)
- Rarity: Rare in Cameo finish.
9. 2005-D Roosevelt Dime (Low Mintage)
The 2005-D Roosevelt Dime was produced with a low mintage compared to other years. The coin’s low production numbers, combined with a high demand among collectors, have led to its value appreciating over time.
- Estimated Value in 2026: $10 – $25 (Good Condition), $100+ (High Grade)
- Rarity: Relatively rare due to low mintage.
10. 2016-P Roosevelt Dime (First “P” Mintmark on Circulating Coins)
The 2016-P Roosevelt Dime is notable for being the first time that a “P” mintmark (for Philadelphia) appeared on a circulating U.S. coin. This marked a significant change in U.S. coinage, as the “P” mintmark had previously only been used on coins like proof coins and special editions. The 2016-P Roosevelt Dime was issued as part of a special initiative to include the mintmark on all U.S. coins, and it has become a valuable coin for collectors.
- Estimated Value in 2026: $5 – $15 (Good Condition), $50+ (High Grade)
- Rarity: Rare as the first circulating “P” mintmark coin.
Roosevelt Dimes Value Summary Table
Here’s a quick reference table summarizing the estimated values of the rare Roosevelt Dimes discussed above:
| Coin Description | Estimated Value (High Grade) | Estimated Value (Good Condition) |
|---|---|---|
| 1975 No S Proof Roosevelt Dime | $25,000+ | $10,000+ |
| 1982 No P Roosevelt Dime | $1,500 – $2,500 | $500 – $1,000 |
| 1996-W Roosevelt Dime (Proof) | $1,000 – $2,000 | $200 – $500 |
| 1970-D Roosevelt Dime (High Grade) | $2,000+ | $50 – $100 |
| 2009 Roosevelt Dime (Proof Set) | $100+ | $25 – $50 |
| 1992 Close AM Reverse (Mint Error) | $5,000+ | $2,000+ |
| 1979-S Proof Roosevelt Dime (Deep Cameo) | $200 – $400 | $100 – $200 |
| 1997-S Roosevelt Dime (Proof, With Cameo) | $75 – $150 | $50 – $100 |
| 2005-D Roosevelt Dime (Low Mintage) | $100+ | $10 – $25 |
| 2016-P Roosevelt Dime (First “P” Mintmark) | $50+ | $5 – $15 |
Conclusion: A Great Investment for Collectors
Roosevelt Dimes are often overlooked by many collectors, but as this guide shows, certain years and varieties are highly valuable. If you’re a coin enthusiast, focusing on rare Roosevelt Dimes from 1973 to 2021 can help you build a collection that holds both historical significance and substantial investment potential.
By understanding which years and varieties are most valuable, you can make informed decisions about what to buy or sell in your quest to complete your collection. As the demand for rare coins continues to rise, now is the perfect time to keep an eye out for these rare Roosevelt Dimes. Happy collecting!