A Florida man almost used a dime from his change to pay for gas, not knowing it was a rare Roosevelt dime worth up to $720,000. This lucky find has people across the U.S. checking their coins, hoping to strike it rich. Roosevelt dimes, minted since 1946 to honor President Franklin D. Roosevelt, are still common in circulation. But a few rare ones with unique features are worth a fortune. Could you have one of these valuable dimes hiding in your change?
A Lucky Break at the Pump
Last week, Tom Reynolds, a 35-year-old teacher, pulled a dime from his pocket at a gas station. Its unusual shine made him pause, and instead of spending it, he took it home. After some online research and a trip to a coin dealer, he learned it was a 1975 “No S” proof Roosevelt dime, a rare version missing the San Francisco mint mark. Valued at nearly $720,000, his find has sparked a frenzy, with people digging through their change for similar treasures.
What Makes These Dimes So Valuable?
Certain Roosevelt dimes are worth big money because of rare traits. The 1975 “No S” proof dime is a top prize, as only a few were minted without the “S” mark. Other valuable dimes include the 1968 “No S” proof or 1970 dimes with double-die errors, where the design looks slightly doubled. A 1975 “No S” dime sold for $456,000 in 2021, and experts say the best ones could now fetch $720,000. Coins in top condition or with clear errors are the most sought-after.
| Feature | Value Impact |
|---|---|
| 1975 No S Proof | Up to $720,000 |
| 1968 No S Proof | $20,000 to $50,000 |
| Double-die error | $500 to $100,000 |
Where to Find These Hidden Gems
You don’t need to be a coin expert to find a valuable Roosevelt dime. They could be in your change from a coffee shop, sitting in a coin jar, or tucked in an old wallet. Look for dimes dated from 1946 to 1980, especially those from 1968, 1970, or 1975. Check for missing mint marks or doubling in the lettering or Roosevelt’s face. Old coin collections, flea markets, or even a relative’s spare change could hold a dime worth thousands.
How to Spot a Rare Dime
Finding a valuable dime takes a little effort. Here’s how to get started:
- Check the date for 1968, 1970, or 1975.
- Look for a missing “S” mint mark or an “S” near the date.
- Use a magnifying glass to spot doubling on the text or portrait.
- Compare your dime to pictures of rare versions online.
- Visit a coin dealer for an appraisal if it seems special.
The Coin Hunt Takes Off
The story of Reynolds’ near-miss has fueled a nationwide coin-hunting craze. Social media is buzzing with posts about rare dimes, and auction sales are making headlines. Coin collecting clubs are growing, and sites like eBay are flooded with Roosevelt dime listings. Even if you don’t find a $720,000 dime, you might discover one worth a few hundred bucks. The excitement of checking your change keeps people searching, turning everyday coins into potential treasures.
If you find a dime that looks unusual, don’t clean it, as cleaning can hurt its value. Take it to a trusted coin dealer or auction house for an expert opinion. The next time you’re paying for a snack or sorting through loose change, take a moment to look closely. That dime in your hand might just be worth a life-changing sum.