Rare Coin Sparks Excitement
A tiny dime worth $3.21 million has turned heads after being found in everyday pocket change. This 1969-S Roosevelt Dime, one of only a few known examples, was discovered by a cashier in Ohio who noticed something odd about the coin while counting her register. Experts confirmed it as a rare “No S” mint mark error, making it one of the most valuable coins in recent history. The coin’s incredible value comes from a mistake at the San Francisco Mint, where a small number of dimes were struck without the “S” mint mark, a feature that sets them apart from regular dimes.
What Makes This Dime So Special?
The 1969-S Roosevelt Dime is a collector’s dream because of its rarity. Only a handful of these error coins are known to exist, and they rarely show up in circulation. The missing “S” mint mark happened during production when a die was mistakenly used without the mint’s identifier. Coin experts estimate fewer than 100 of these dimes were ever made, and even fewer have survived. The coin found recently was in near-perfect condition, graded as MS-66 by the Professional Coin Grading Service, which boosted its auction value to $3.21 million at a recent sale.
How to Spot a Valuable Dime
Could you have a fortune in your wallet? Here’s what to look for when checking your Roosevelt Dimes:
- Year: Look for a 1969 date on the front of the dime.
- Mint Mark: Check the area below the date for a missing “S” mint mark.
- Condition: Coins in good shape, with clear details and no heavy wear, are worth more.
If you find a 1969 dime without an “S,” don’t clean it—cleaning can lower its value. Take it to a reputable coin dealer or grading service for authentication.
Auction Results and Market Impact
The Ohio cashier’s dime sold at auction for $3.21 million, setting a record for the highest price ever paid for a Roosevelt Dime. The buyer, an anonymous collector, outbid several major players in the coin world. This sale has sparked a frenzy among collectors, with many now scouring their change for similar treasures. The coin market has seen a surge in interest for error coins, and experts predict more people will start checking their dimes. The table below shows recent high-value dime sales for comparison:
| Year | Mint Mark | Sale Price | Auction Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1969 | No S | $3.21M | July 2025 |
| 1975 | No S | $1.8M | March 2023 |
| 1968 | No S | $2.4M | August 2020 |
Why Coin Collecting Is Booming
This discovery has fueled a growing interest in coin collecting, especially among younger people. Social media platforms like X are buzzing with posts about rare coins, with users sharing tips on spotting valuable dimes. The thrill of finding a treasure in everyday change has made coin hunting a fun hobby for many. Experts say the market for rare coins is stronger than ever, driven by stories like this one. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious, now’s a great time to check your change—you might be holding a small fortune.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a “No S” Roosevelt Dime?
It’s a rare 1969 Roosevelt Dime missing the “S” mint mark due to a production error at the San Francisco Mint.
How do I know if my dime is valuable?
Check for the year 1969 and look for a missing “S” mint mark. Have it appraised by a professional if you suspect it’s rare.
Where can I sell a rare dime?
Contact a reputable coin dealer or auction house specializing in rare coins for authentication and sale options.