1975 “No S” Roosevelt Dime: A Collector’s Guide

The 1975 “No S” Roosevelt Dime is one of the rarest and most sought-after coins in U.S. history. It holds legendary status among numismatists due to its extraordinary rarity, fascinating production error, and high market value. With only a few known examples in existence, this coin represents the pinnacle of modern dime collecting and is an essential piece for serious enthusiasts.

The Story Behind the 1975 “No S” Roosevelt Dime

In 1975, the United States Mint produced dimes at three facilities: Philadelphia (no mintmark), Denver (“D” mintmark), and San Francisco (“S” mintmark). Proof coins, which are specially struck for collectors, were minted at the San Francisco Mint and typically bear the “S” mintmark. However, an incredibly rare minting error resulted in a small number of proof dimes being struck without the “S” mintmark.

This anomaly occurred during the die preparation process. The San Francisco Mint’s proof dies were supposed to receive an “S” mintmark, but in this case, one die was mistakenly left without the mark. The error went unnoticed, and a limited number of proof dimes were struck and released into circulation.

Why the 1975 “No S” Dime Is So Rare

The 1975 “No S” Roosevelt Dime is exceedingly rare, with only two confirmed examples known to exist. These coins were initially discovered in proof sets, making their scarcity even more astounding.

The rarity is further amplified by the fact that most proof sets from 1975 were carefully inspected by the Mint and collectors alike. The likelihood of finding an undiscovered example today is slim to none, adding to the mystique and desirability of this coin.

Design Features of the Roosevelt Dime

• Obverse (Front): The obverse features the profile of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, designed by John R. Sinnock. The year “1975” appears below his portrait, along with the word “LIBERTY” and the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
• Reverse (Back): The reverse showcases a torch flanked by an olive branch and an oak branch, symbolizing liberty, peace, and strength. The inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and “ONE DIME” encircle the design.

While the design of the 1975 “No S” dime is identical to other Roosevelt dimes, its missing mintmark makes it a standout error coin.

Value of the 1975 “No S” Roosevelt Dime

The extreme rarity of the 1975 “No S” dime has made it a highly valuable piece in the numismatic market. In 2019, one example sold at auction for an astounding $456,000. Its value stems not only from its scarcity but also from its status as a unique error coin in proof quality.

For collectors lucky enough to own this piece, the coin’s value is likely to appreciate further as demand continues to grow. Even damaged or lower-grade examples would command substantial premiums, though no such specimens have surfaced to date.

Tips for Collectors

1. Inspect 1975 Proof Sets: If you have a 1975 proof set, check the dime for the absence of the “S” mintmark. While the chances of finding one are slim, it’s worth confirming.
2. Authenticate the Coin: Any suspected 1975 “No S” dimes should be authenticated and graded by a professional service such as PCGS or NGC.
3. Invest in Known Examples: If you’re a serious collector, acquiring one of the two known 1975 “No S” dimes is a rare opportunity to own a piece of numismatic history.

Conclusion

The 1975 “No S” Roosevelt Dime is a true numismatic treasure. Its unique backstory, extreme rarity, and record-breaking auction prices make it a fascinating piece for collectors and historians alike. For those fortunate enough to own or even view this coin, it serves as a reminder of the incredible value that errors can bring to the world of coin collecting.

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