The world of rare coins is filled with intriguing stories, but few are as fascinating as the tale of the 1975 ‘No S’ Roosevelt dime. Recently sold at auction for a jaw-dropping $506,250, this coin’s uniqueness isn’t about what it has—but what it lacks.
Missing its signature ‘S’ mint mark, this dime is one of only two known examples, making it a coveted piece in American numismatics.
What Makes the 1975 ‘No S’ Dime Special?
The Importance of Mint Marks
Typically, proof coins from the San Francisco Mint bear an ‘S’ mint mark, signifying their origin. In 1975, approximately 2.84 million proof sets were minted in San Francisco, all expected to carry the ‘S.’ However, due to a rare error, two dimes left the mint without this crucial mark.
This tiny oversight transformed these coins into some of the rarest and most valuable dimes ever created. It’s proof that even the smallest details can make a big difference in the world of coin collecting.
The Discovery of the 1975 ‘No S’ Dime
The two known examples of this rare coin were found in California during the late 1970s. They were initially acquired by coin dealer F.J. Vollmer, who sold the first specimen in 1978 for $18,200—a remarkable price for the time.
The buyer, an Ohio collector and his mother, held onto the coin for decades. Their patience paid off spectacularly when this dime became a record-breaking piece of numismatic history.
The Record-Breaking Auction of 2024
A Historic Sale
In October 2024, GreatCollections hosted an auction that captivated collectors worldwide. The 1975 ‘No S’ dime, graded as PCGS Proof-67 and verified by the Certified Acceptance Corporation (CAC), drew over 200 bids.
The final sale price? A staggering $506,250. This auction set a new benchmark for modern mint error coins, demonstrating the growing interest and value in rare numismatic treasures.
Price Growth Over Time
The value of the 1975 ‘No S’ dime has risen dramatically over the years, as shown in the table below:
| Year | Sale Price |
|---|---|
| 1978 | $18,200 |
| 1980s | $30,000+ |
| 2000s | $100,000+ |
| 2024 | $506,250 |
This steady appreciation highlights the enduring appeal and value of rare coins, particularly those with unique errors like the ‘No S’ dime.
Why Is This Coin So Valuable?
Several factors contribute to the extraordinary value of the 1975 ‘No S’ Roosevelt dime:
- Extreme Rarity: With only two known examples, it’s one of the rarest U.S. coins ever minted.
- Historical Significance: The coin’s unique error reflects the intricate and meticulous processes of coin production.
- High Grade: Its PCGS Proof-67 grade ensures that it’s in excellent condition.
- CAC Approval: This certification adds credibility and guarantees quality.
- Provenance: A well-documented ownership history further enhances its appeal.
The Role of Professional Grading
Professional authentication played a crucial role in establishing the dime’s value. Grading services like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and CAC assess a coin’s authenticity and condition, providing confidence to collectors.
These certifications are especially important for high-value items, as they ensure that buyers and sellers can trust the coin’s legitimacy and quality.
Lessons from the 1975 ‘No S’ Dime
The story of this coin offers valuable insights for collectors:
- Pay Attention to Details: Even small features like missing mint marks can make a coin extraordinarily valuable.
- Preserve Your Coins: Proper storage ensures that coins retain their value over time.
- Seek Certification: Professional grading adds credibility and marketability.
- Document Provenance: A clear ownership history can significantly enhance a coin’s worth.
- Be Patient: Rare coins often appreciate in value over decades.
How This Coin Impacts the Collecting Community
The 1975 ‘No S’ dime’s record-breaking sale has energized the numismatic world. Here’s why:
- Highlighting Mint Errors: It underscores the value of unique mistakes in coin production.
- Encouraging Modern Coin Examination: Even coins from recent decades can become valuable treasures.
- Boosting Market Demand: The sale reflects the robust interest in rare and unique coins.
Conclusion:
The 1975 ‘No S’ Roosevelt dime isn’t just a coin; it’s a piece of history. Its record-breaking sale highlights the enduring fascination with rare coins and the importance of paying attention to detail.
For collectors, this story is an inspiring reminder that treasures often hide in plain sight. With the rare coin market continuing to grow, the next big discovery could be just around the corner—or in your own collection.
FAQs
It’s a rare coin missing the ‘S’ mint mark, typically found on proof coins from the San Francisco Mint. Only two examples are known to exist.
Its extreme rarity, high grade, and historical significance make it one of the most sought-after coins in American numismatics.
Both known specimens were found in California in the late 1970s and later sold by coin dealer F.J. Vollmer.
Grading services like PCGS and CAC authenticate and evaluate coins, ensuring their legitimacy and condition, which enhances their value.
Yes! As the 1975 ‘No S’ dime demonstrates, even recent coins can become legendary collectibles if they have unique features or errors.
READ MORE: A Guide for Collectors and Investors To Unlock Rare Coin Value
