The 1975 “No S” Roosevelt Dime is one of the rarest and most valuable modern coins produced by the United States Mint, with only two known examples. These dimes are highly sought after by collectors due to their extreme rarity and significant market value, with one having sold for an impressive $456,000 at auction in 2019. If a third example were to surface, it could potentially be worth a life-changing sum.
Understanding the 1975 “No S” Roosevelt Dime
The 1975 “No S” Roosevelt Dime is a Proof coin, meaning it was struck with a special process for collectors rather than for general circulation. Proof coins are distinct from business strikes, which are produced for everyday use.
The “No S” refers to the absence of the “S” mintmark, indicating the coin was struck at the San Francisco Mint. Most Proof coins from this mint carry the “S” mintmark, making the absence of this mark on the 1975 dime a significant error.
Proof Coins vs. Business Strikes
To correctly identify a 1975 “No S” Roosevelt Dime, it is crucial to distinguish between a Proof coin and a business strike. Business strikes are the coins you encounter in daily transactions, designed for general circulation and struck at various mints, including Philadelphia, which does not use a mintmark on dimes from this period.
Proof coins, on the other hand, are specially made for collectors, with sharper details and a mirror-like finish. A typical 1975 Proof Roosevelt Dime should have an “S” mintmark. The rare “No S” variety lacks this mintmark, making it a valuable error coin.
What to Do If You Think You Have a 1975 “No S” Dime
If you believe you have found a 1975 “No S” Roosevelt Dime, the first step is authentication. The two most reputable companies for coin grading and authentication are the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) and the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS).
These organizations can verify the authenticity of your coin and provide a professional grade, which significantly impacts its value.
Before pursuing authentication, it’s essential to manage expectations. Finding such a rare coin by chance is extremely unlikely, and most people who believe they have a “No S” dime often mistake a regular business-strike dime for the rare Proof issue.
Coin Specifications
| Country | United States of America |
|---|---|
| Year of Issue | 1975 |
| Denomination | 10 Cents (USD) |
| Mintmark | None (San Francisco) |
| Mintage | 2 |
| Alloy | .750 copper, .250 nickel bonded to a core of pure copper |
| Weight | 2.27 g |
| Diameter | 17.90 mm |
| Edge | Reeded |
| OBV Designer | John R. Sinnock |
| REV Designer | John R. Sinnock |
| Quality | Proof |
Conclusion
The 1975 “No S” Roosevelt Dime remains one of the most coveted coins in modern numismatics, with only two known examples. While the odds of finding another are slim, the excitement of the hunt and the possibility of discovering such a treasure continue to draw collectors. If you think you’ve found one, proceed with caution, and consult with professionals to ensure your coin is genuine.
FAQs
What is a 1975 “No S” Roosevelt Dime?
It’s a rare error coin produced in 1975 without the “S” mintmark, which is usually present on Proof coins from the San Francisco Mint.
How many 1975 “No S” Roosevelt Dimes are known to exist?
Only two examples are known to exist, making it one of the rarest modern U.S. coins.
How can I identify a 1975 “No S” Roosevelt Dime?
A 1975 “No S” Roosevelt Dime will be a Proof coin, featuring a mirror-like finish and no “S” mintmark. It’s essential to compare it to other Proof dimes from that year.
What should I do if I think I have a 1975 “No S” Roosevelt Dime?
Have the coin authenticated by a reputable grading service like NGC or PCGS to confirm its authenticity and value.
How much is a 1975 “No S” Roosevelt Dime worth?
The last known sale of a 1975 “No S” Roosevelt Dime was for $456,000 at auction in 2019.
Reference
This paraphrased content is based on information from Gainesville Coins.
I do believe I have in my possession and looking for a reputable Buyer.I also have a number of pennies,domes,nickels.