A small dime tucked away in an old coin tin might just change someone’s life. A rare 1968 No-S Roosevelt dime, discovered in a grandfather’s forgotten collection, is headed to auction and could fetch up to $1.9 million. This unassuming coin, barely worth a glance to most, has collectors buzzing with excitement. Its incredible value comes from a rare mistake made at the mint, turning pocket change into a potential fortune. Here’s why this dime is making headlines and how it could rewrite the record books.
A Mint Mistake Worth Millions
The 1968 No-S Roosevelt dime is special because of a simple error: it’s missing the “S” mint mark that shows it was made in San Francisco. Back in 1968, the San Francisco Mint produced proof coins—special editions for collectors—but a few dimes were accidentally struck without the mint mark. This mistake makes the coin incredibly rare, with only a dozen or so known to exist. The absence of the “S” transforms this dime into a treasure that collectors dream of owning.
- Only about 12 No-S dimes are known.
- The error is easy to spot with a quick look.
- Most were found by collectors in the 1970s.
A History of Sky-High Prices
This isn’t the first time a 1968 No-S dime has caused a stir. In 2019, one sold for $1.3 million at auction, and another went for $1.5 million in 2022. The dime now up for grabs is in near-mint condition, graded PR-68 by the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC). Experts say its pristine state could push its value to $1.9 million or more, potentially setting a new record for Roosevelt dimes. The coin’s history of blockbuster sales shows just how much demand there is for these rare finds.
| Year Sold | Sale Price | Condition |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $1.3 million | PR-67 |
| 2022 | $1.5 million | PR-68 |
| 2025 (Est.) | Up to $1.9 million | PR-68 |
Why Collectors Can’t Get Enough
Coin collecting is like a treasure hunt, blending history, rarity, and the thrill of discovery. The 1968 No-S dime is a perfect example—a small mistake that slipped past the mint’s checks, making it a prized piece. The dime’s design, honoring President Franklin D. Roosevelt, adds a touch of American history that collectors love. Its scarcity and story make it more than just money; it’s a piece of art and a snapshot of a moment when the mint messed up.
Could You Have a Million-Dollar Dime?
The news of this dime’s value has people digging through old coin jars. While finding a 1968 No-S dime is like winning the lottery, it’s worth checking your loose change. Look for a 1968 dime without an “S” under the date. If you spot one, don’t get too excited yet—most 1968 dimes are worth just 10 cents. Take any suspicious finds to a coin dealer or grading service to confirm. The odds are long, but the possibility of finding a gem keeps the hunt alive.
Auction Fever Heating Up
As the auction nears, anticipation is sky-high. Hosted by Stack’s Bowers Galleries, the event is expected to draw serious collectors and investors. Bidding could be intense, with the dime’s near-perfect condition making it a top prize. Whether it hits the $1.9 million mark or climbs higher, this coin proves that big treasures can come in small packages. So, next time you find an old coin tin, take a peek—you might just uncover a million-dollar surprise.