$506,250 for a 1975 Dime: Imagine stumbling upon a tiny dime that could make you half a million dollars richer. That’s exactly what happened recently with a 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime, which sold at auction for a jaw-dropping $506,250. While it might sound unbelievable, there’s a fascinating minting error behind this coin’s sky-high value — and it could still be hiding in someone’s coin collection today. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about this rare coin, how to spot it, and why it matters — with advice simple enough for a beginner yet insightful for professionals.
$506,250 for a 1975 Dime
The 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime is proof that even the smallest mistakes can lead to priceless treasures. Whether you are a seasoned numismatist or someone just curious about coins, it’s always worth taking a second look at old collections. With only two confirmed copies, the odds of finding another are slim, but not impossible — and as history shows, all it takes is one lucky find to make a life-changing discovery.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin | 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime |
| Error | Missing “S” mint mark |
| Auction Price | $506,250 (GreatCollections, Oct 2024) |
| Known Copies | Only 2 confirmed worldwide |
| Where Found | 1975 Proof Sets |
| Official Reference | U.S. Mint Website |
What Is the 1975 No-S Dime?
The 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime is one of the rarest modern U.S. coins. It’s called “No-S” because it lacks the “S” mint mark that normally appears on coins produced at the San Francisco Mint. These coins were specially made for collectors as part of proof sets, which are high-quality, mirror-finish coins.
Due to a simple mistake — using a die without the mint mark — a very small number of dimes left the Mint without the identifying “S”. Only two examples have ever been authenticated, making it one of the rarest and most desirable modern coins.
A Brief History of U.S. Mint Errors
Mint errors have fascinated collectors for centuries. Common mistakes include double strikes, wrong planchets (blank metal discs), off-center strikes, and missing mint marks. Some of the most famous error coins in U.S. history include:
- The 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent,
- The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel,
- And of course, the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime.
According to the American Numismatic Association, mint errors are considered some of the most exciting finds because they combine rarity with a compelling story.
How the 1975 No-S Dime Was Discovered?
In 1978, an Ohio family bought a 1975 proof set from a coin dealer for $18,200, suspecting it could be special. They stored it in a bank vault for decades. When the next generation inherited it, they had it authenticated by PCGS, confirming it was indeed a genuine 1975 No-S proof dime.
The coin was auctioned by GreatCollections in October 2024, fetching $506,250 after intense bidding — setting a world record for this type of coin.
How to Spot a $506,250 for a 1975 Dime?
If you have old proof sets lying around, here’s a clear step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Find 1975 Proof Sets
Look for unopened or well-preserved 1975 U.S. Proof Sets. They usually come in hard plastic cases from the Mint.
Step 2: Inspect the Dime
Using a magnifying glass, examine the dime closely:
- It should have a mirror-like background and frosted raised features.
- It must lack an “S” mint mark above the year.
Step 3: Confirm Proof Quality
A regular Philadelphia dime from 1975 also lacks a mint mark but doesn’t have the mirror-like proof finish.
Step 4: Authenticate the Coin
If you think you’ve found one:
- Submit it to PCGS or NGC.
- These top grading companies will verify the authenticity and condition of your coin, assigning it a grade that affects its value.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Searching
- Assuming all no-mint-mark dimes are rare: Regular Philadelphia dimes without mint marks are common.
- Damaging the coin: Always handle coins by their edges and wear gloves if possible.
- Skipping professional grading: Authentication by a reputable grader is crucial for top dollar sales.
Investment Potential of the 1975 No-S Dime
Rare coins are an exciting investment. Experts believe that if another 1975 No-S Dime surfaces, it could sell for even more than $506,250. Demand for rare mint errors is growing, especially among wealthy collectors looking for unique assets.
The Professional Numismatists Guild advises that rare U.S. coins have historically shown strong long-term value growth compared to other collectibles.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many 1975 No-S Dimes exist?
Only two confirmed examples are known today, making it one of the rarest modern coins.
What if I find a 1975 dime without a mint mark?
If it has a mirror-like finish (proof quality) and no mint mark, it could be valuable. If it looks like an ordinary coin, it’s likely a common Philadelphia issue.
How much does it cost to authenticate a coin?
Grading services typically charge between $50 and $150 depending on the coin’s value and how fast you want it graded.
Should I clean my coin before sending it for grading?
Never clean a coin. Cleaning can significantly reduce its value and ruin its surface.
Where is the best place to sell a rare coin?
Through reputable auction houses like GreatCollections, Heritage Auctions, or private sales via a trusted coin dealer.
