The $200,000 dime is known as the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime, a unique error coin that has become one of the most valuable in American coinage. This dime was minted as part of a proof set intended for collectors. Typically, proof coins from the San Francisco Mint bear an “S” mint mark, but a few 1975 Roosevelt Dimes were mistakenly struck without this mark. What makes this coin so extraordinary is its rarity—only two known examples exist. These coins were produced in limited numbers, and their absence of a mint mark was a result of a rare oversight during production.
1. 1916-D Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is a small coin with a big reputation among collectors. This coin was minted during the first year of the Mercury Dime series, and only 264,000 examples were produced at the Denver Mint. It is highly sought after due to its low mintage and historical significance. A high-grade specimen can fetch tens of thousands of dollars, with some reaching $100,000 or more.
2. 1894-S Barber Dime
The 1894-S Barber Dime is one of the rarest coins in U.S. history, with only 24 examples ever minted. Of these, only nine are known to exist today. The coin was reportedly produced as a gift for influential individuals, and its scarcity has made it a legend in the numismatic world. An 1894-S Barber Dime in pristine condition can sell for millions of dollars at auction.
3. 1942/41 Mercury Dime (Overdate)
The 1942/41 Mercury Dime is an error coin created when a 1941 die was repurposed to produce 1942 dimes, resulting in a visible overlap of the two dates. This overdate error is highly collectible, and coins in excellent condition can be worth thousands of dollars, with some fetching up to $50,000.
4. 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime (Proof)
The 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime is another proof coin struck without the expected “S” mint mark. Only a small number of these coins were minted, and their rarity has made them highly valuable. A flawless example can sell for tens of thousands of dollars at auction, making it a prized addition to any collection.
The $200,000 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime serves as a reminder that valuable treasures can sometimes be found in the most unexpected places. Whether it’s a minting error, low mintage, or historical significance, these rare coins hold value far beyond their face amounts. By learning to identify coins like the 1975 No-S Dime, 1916-D Mercury Dime, and others, you could turn an ordinary collection into a treasure trove. So start checking your proof sets, spare change, and inherited collections—you might just uncover a hidden gem worth a fortune. Happy hunting!
FAQ’s:
1. What makes the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime so valuable?
Its rarity is the primary factor. Only two examples are known to exist, and their absence of a mint mark makes them a unique minting error highly sought after by collectors.
2. How can I identify a 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime?
Inspect proof sets from 1975 for dimes without the “S” mint mark. These dimes are silver and have a mirror-like finish due to their proof status.
3. Can I find other valuable dimes in circulation?
Yes! Coins like the 1916-D Mercury Dime or the 1942/41 Mercury Dime are worth significant amounts and could still be hiding in old collections or rolls of coins.
4. How should I handle rare coins?
Always handle rare coins carefully to avoid damaging them. Use gloves and store them in protective cases to maintain their condition.
5. Where can I sell rare coins?
Rare coins can be sold through reputable auction houses, certified coin dealers, or numismatic organizations. Make sure to have the coin authenticated and graded first to ensure its maximum value.
