A single dime in your purse could change your life. The Roosevelt dime, first minted in 1946 to honor President Franklin D. Roosevelt, is a common coin most people wouldn’t think twice about. But a rare version, known as the 1969-S No S Proof Roosevelt Dime, is catching attention. This tiny coin could be worth as much as $1.9 million at auction. Its unique flaw and limited numbers make it a treasure waiting to be found.
The Story Behind the No S Dime
In 1969, the U.S. Mint in San Francisco made a small batch of proof Roosevelt dimes, which are high-quality coins meant for collectors. Normally, San Francisco coins have an “S” mark to show where they were made. But a mistake happened: a few dimes were struck without the “S” mint mark. This error created one of the rarest coins in U.S. history. Only a handful are known to exist, and collectors are eager to get their hands on them.
Why Collectors Are Obsessed
The 1969-S No S Proof Roosevelt Dime is valuable because of its rarity and the story behind it. Mint errors like this are uncommon, and proof coins are already special due to their polished, mirror-like finish. When one of these dimes sold for $1.9 million in a 2020 auction, it set a record for Roosevelt dimes. The combination of a mint mistake, limited supply, and high demand drives its value. For collectors, finding one is like hitting the jackpot.
How to Spot This Rare Dime
You don’t need to be a coin expert to check for this dime, but you need to look closely. Grab any 1969 Roosevelt dimes from your change and check the front for a tiny “S” below the date. If it’s missing, you might have a winner. Also, proof coins have a shiny, reflective surface compared to regular dimes. If you think you’ve got one, take it to a professional coin grader like PCGS or NGC to confirm it’s a genuine No S proof dime.
| Feature | 1969-S No S Proof Dime | Regular 1969-S Dime |
|---|---|---|
| Year | 1969 | 1969 |
| Mint Mark | No “S” | “S” below date |
| Finish | Proof (shiny, mirror-like) | Standard circulation |
| Estimated Value | Up to $1.9 million | 10 cents (face value) |
What to Do If You Find One
If you find a 1969-S No S Proof Dime, keep it safe. Store it in a plastic coin holder to prevent scratches or damage. Contact a trusted coin dealer or grading service to verify its authenticity. If it’s real, you could be looking at a huge payout. Even if it’s not the No S version, other rare Roosevelt dimes can still be worth hundreds or thousands. Always get a professional opinion before selling to ensure you get the best deal.
The Roosevelt dime proves that everyday items can hold incredible value. Next time you’re rummaging through your purse or coin jar, take a moment to check those dimes. A small mistake from 1969 could turn pocket change into a million-dollar discovery. With so few of these coins out there, the search for this rare dime is a thrilling treasure hunt for anyone with a keen eye.