A sensational claim is circulating: a Roosevelt dime valued at $957 million is still in circulation. This article separates myth from reality, revealing the true high-value Roosevelt dimes and what coin enthusiasts should actually look for.
The Viral Myth vs. Real Value
The idea of a Roosevelt dime fetching $957 million is pure fantasy. No coin has ever sold for anywhere near that amount.
In reality, the most valuable Roosevelt dime collectible—a rare proof error—has sold for about $500,000 at auction. So if you heard someone found a dime worth more than half a billion dollars, it’s misinformation.
Record-Breaking Roosevelt Dime: The 1975 “No S” Proof Error
The most famous and valuable Roosevelt dime is the 1975 “No S” proof, a San Francisco proof set error lacking the “S” mintmark. Only two examples are known.
One sold for approximately $456,000, and another later exceeded $500,000. These came from official seal-boxed proof sets—not everyday pocket change.
Other Notable but Less Rare Proof Errors
- The 1970 “No S” proof dime: still a specialty item, typically valued in the hundreds to low thousands depending on quality.
- The 1983 “No S” proof dime: more common than the 1975 error, still collectible; top-grade specimens may fetch several thousand dollars, though most sell for hundreds.
What Can Actually Turn Up in Your Change: The 1982 “No P”
The only Roosevelt dime that realistically could still be found in circulation is the 1982 “No P”—a Philadelphia mint error missing the “P” mintmark.
These occasionally appear when people use change. In circulated or mid-grade condition, they might be worth a few hundred dollars, and more if in near-mint state. Still, that’s a far cry from the fictional $957 million figure.
Quick Overview : Roosevelt Dime Varieties & Realistic Values (2025)
| Variety | Source | Found in Circulation? | Rarity | Realistic Value Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1975 “No S” Proof | San Francisco proof sets | No | Extremely rare (2 known) | Around $456,000–$500,000+ |
| 1970 “No S” Proof | San Francisco proof sets | No | Scarce | Hundreds to low thousands |
| 1983 “No S” Proof | San Francisco proof sets | No | Less rare | Hundreds to several thousands |
| 1982 “No P” (circulation) | Philadelphia business strike | Occasionally | Rare in high grade | $200–$500+ (higher for pristine) |
Tips for Spotting High-Value Dimes
- Check the mintmark:
- For proofs (1968+), you should see an “S”. Its absence in 1975 proofs is extremely rare.
- For 1982 circulation dimes, look for a tiny “P.” If it’s missing, that’s your potential “No P” find.
- Look at the finish: Proof dimes have mirrorlike surfaces and razor-sharp detail. Business-strike coins look more everyday.
- Authenticate valuable pieces: The high-end errors can be counterfeited or tampered with, so professional grading is essential.
There is no such thing as a Roosevelt dime worth $957 million in circulation. The real numismatic star is the 1975 “No S” proof dime, auctioning for around $500,000.
But don’t forget the reasonable thrill: the 1982 “No P” dime is a tangible prize if it ever appears in your everyday change.
Focus on mintmarks, finishes, and proper authentication—that’s where genuine coin-collecting treasure lies.
FAQs
Could a dime really be worth $957 million?
No. That value is fictitious. The highest-known sale for a Roosevelt dime is around $500,000.
Can someone find a high-value Roosevelt dime in pocket change?
Possibly—but only the 1982 “No P” has a realistic chance of turning up in circulation. The most valuable ones are proof errors from sealed sets.
How do I check if my dime is special?
Examine the mintmark, assess whether it’s proof or business-strike, and get it professionally authenticated if it appears unusual or high-grade.