Roosevelt Dime Value Guide: The Roosevelt dime has been a fixture in American coinage since 1946, honoring President Franklin D. Roosevelt for his leadership during challenging times in U.S. history. While most Roosevelt dimes remain common and circulate widely, certain dates and rare varieties have emerged as highly sought-after collectibles, commanding significant value among numismatists in 2026.
Key Roosevelt Dimes Worth Collecting
| Year | Defining Feature | Estimated Collector Value 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| 1949 | Early release with limited high-grade survivors | High hundreds to several thousand dollars |
| 1955 | Scarce in mint state | Thousands in top condition |
| 1968 | No S proof error | Tens of thousands of dollars |
| 1970 | No S proof error | Extremely rare, tens of thousands or higher |
| 1996-W | West Point commemorative release | Hundreds to thousands of dollars |
Historical Significance of the Roosevelt Dime
The Roosevelt dime represented a shift in U.S. coin design, honoring a modern president still fresh in public memory. Crafted by John R. Sinnock, the obverse presents a dignified portrait of Roosevelt, while the reverse features a torch flanked by an olive branch and an oak branch, symbolizing liberty, peace, and strength. Over seven decades, billions have been minted, but only a small number of coins have achieved collector prominence due to rarity or unique circumstances.
1949 Roosevelt Dime Value and Collector Appeal
The 1949 Roosevelt dime is considered a key early issue. Many coins entered circulation quickly, resulting in few high-grade examples surviving today. Collectors in 2026 prize specimens with minimal wear, sharp details, and original surfaces. This coin remains a cornerstone for those seeking a complete Roosevelt dime collection.
1955 Roosevelt Dime Rarity
Despite adequate production numbers, most 1955 dimes were circulated, leaving limited uncirculated examples. Mint state specimens are highly sought after and often command premium prices at auction. Their scarcity reinforces the coin’s enduring appeal for advanced collectors.
1968 No S Proof Roosevelt Dime Error
The 1968 No S Proof Roosevelt dime is one of the most notable modern U.S. coin errors. Proof coins were expected to bear the S mint mark from the San Francisco Mint, but a small batch was struck without it. These rare errors are highly valuable due to their limited quantity and proof quality.
1970 No S Proof Roosevelt Dime Rarity
The 1970 No S Proof Roosevelt dime is even rarer than its 1968 counterpart. With extremely few known examples, this coin remains one of the most coveted modern proof coins. Its scarcity and the intriguing story behind the minting error make it a highlight of elite collections.
1996-W Roosevelt Dime Commemorative Issue
To mark the 50th anniversary of the Roosevelt dime, the U.S. Mint produced a limited number of 1996-W dimes at the West Point Mint. Never released into circulation, these coins feature the W mint mark and are highly prized in collector sets. Values have steadily increased as demand grows.
Factors That Influence Roosevelt Dime Value
Key elements affecting the value of Roosevelt dimes include survival rates, condition, mint errors, and collector demand. Coins with minimal wear, sharp details, and certified grades consistently achieve higher prices. Proof errors and special mint releases further elevate market value in 2026.
Collecting Roosevelt Dimes in 2026
Roosevelt dimes offer opportunities for collectors of all experience levels. Beginners can focus on assembling a basic date set affordably, while seasoned collectors seek rare proof errors and key dates. The series combines historical importance, artistic design, and the thrill of discovering scarce coins, making it a compelling collection.
Final Verdict
While commonly used as everyday currency, select Roosevelt dimes have become remarkable collectibles. The 1949, 1955, 1968 No S Proof, 1970 No S Proof, and 1996-W Roosevelt dimes are particularly valuable in 2026. Their rarity, historical context, and minting anomalies demonstrate how a simple dime can evolve into a prized numismatic treasure.
Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only. Roosevelt dime values are influenced by market trends, condition, rarity, and grading, which may change over time. Readers should consult certified grading services or professional numismatists before buying, selling, or valuing coins.
