1982-P Roosevelt Dime Value Garden: What Is It Worth?
The 1982-P Roosevelt Dime is worth anywhere from its $0.10 face value in worn condition to over $1,500 in high-grade mint state. While most 1982 dimes found in pocket change are common, certain rare varieties and mint errors can make this specific year a hidden treasure for everyday collectors.
| Condition / Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Circulated (Average Wear) | $0.10 – $0.25 |
| Uncirculated (MS60 – MS63) | $1.00 – $5.00 |
| Mint State (MS65) | $15.00 – $35.00 |
| Premium Grade (MS67 Full Bands) | $150.00 – $500.00+ |
Why the 1982-P Roosevelt Dime Is Special for Collectors
In the early 1980s, the United States Mint changed its production priorities, which led to some interesting outcomes for the 1982-P Roosevelt Dime. If you have a handful of change, using a top coin identifier and value app can help you quickly sort the common strikes from the potential gems. Unlike silver dimes from the pre-1965 era, the 1982 dime is composed of a copper-nickel clad “sandwich.”
Because the U.S. Mint did not produce traditional Uncirculated Mint Sets in 1982 or 1983, finding “Mint State” examples of the 1982-P dime is actually much harder than in other years. Most of these coins were released directly into circulation, where they suffered scratches and wear. CoinKnow users often report that finding a shiny, unmarred 1982-P is a significant win because of this lack of official mint sets.
When you look at your coin, the “P” mint mark above the date indicates it was struck at the Philadelphia Mint. While millions were made, the condition is the primary driver of value. A coin that looks like it just came off the press can be worth significantly more than ten cents. By checking the 1982-P Roosevelt Dime auction records and price data, enthusiasts can see how much collectors are willing to pay for top-tier preservation.
Grading the 1982-P Roosevelt Dime: What to Look For
To determine the 1982-P Roosevelt Dime value, you must understand the grading scale. Professional graders look for “Full Bands” (FB) on the reverse of the coin. The reverse features a torch with horizontal bands at the top and bottom. If these bands are clearly separated with no merging, the coin is highly desirable.
Most 1982-P dimes you find in your spare change will be “Circulated.” These show wear on Roosevelt’s cheek and the hair lines above his ear. However, if you find one in a piggy bank that looks brand new, you might be looking at a Mint State (MS) grade. CoinKnow can help you visualize these differences by comparing your coin to high-resolution images of graded specimens.
Even a small difference in grade can mean a huge jump in price. For instance, an MS65 might sell for $20, but an MS67 with Full Bands can skyrocket. You can find more detailed breakdowns on the current market value and grading tiers for the 1982-P dime to see where your coin fits on the spectrum.
| Grade Designation | Physical Appearance | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Good (G4) | Heavily worn; outlines are visible but flat. | $0.10 |
| Fine (F12) | Moderate wear; Roosevelt’s ear is visible. | $0.15 |
| Extremely Fine (EF40) | Slight wear on high points only. | $0.50 |
| Mint State (MS63) | No wear; original luster remains. | $5.00 |
The Famous 1982 “No P” Roosevelt Dime Error
While we are focusing on the 1982-P, we cannot ignore its famous cousin: the 1982 “No P” Dime. In late 1982, the Philadelphia Mint accidentally released a number of dimes without the “P” mint mark. These are incredibly rare and are one of the most famous modern error coins in American history.
If you find a 1982 dime that has no mint mark at all, you might be holding a coin worth $100 to $500, depending on its condition. Most 1982 dimes from Philadelphia should have the P. In contrast, dimes from the Denver mint will have a “D.” If yours is blank where the mint mark usually sits, it’s time to take it to a professional.
Using CoinKnow helps collectors distinguish between a genuine mint error and a coin that has simply been damaged or altered. True “No P” errors were struck with a die that lacked the mark entirely, making them a “Must-Have” for serious Roosevelt Dime enthusiasts.
Rare Varieties and Mint Errors to Watch For
Beyond the “No P” error, the 1982-P Roosevelt Dime can exhibit other manufacturing flaws that increase its value. These include “Clipped Planchets,” where the coin looks like a bite was taken out of it, or “Off-Center Strikes,” where the image isn’t centered on the metal disc.
Another common discovery is the “Die Crack.” Because the Mint was working hard to keep up with demand in 1982, dies often wore down, resulting in raised lines of metal on the coin’s surface. While minor die cracks don’t add much value, large or dramatic ones can attract a premium from error collectors.
| Error Type | Description | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| Off-Center Strike | Design is shifted toward the edge. | $10 – $50+ |
| Broadstruck | Coin is flatter and wider than normal. | $5 – $20 |
| 1982 No P Error | Missing the Philadelphia mint mark. | $100 – $1,000 |
Tips for Selling and Preserving Your 1982-P Dime
If you believe you have a valuable 1982-P Roosevelt Dime, the first rule is: do not clean it! Cleaning a coin with chemicals or even a soft cloth can create micro-scratches that destroy its numismatic value. Collectors prefer “original skin” or the natural patina a coin develops over time.
Instead, store your coin in a PVC-free plastic flip or a cardboard 2×2 holder. This protects the surface from oils on your fingers and moisture in the air. If you think your coin is a high-grade specimen or a “No P” error, you might consider having it authenticated by a service like PCGS or NGC.
When you’re ready to sell, online marketplaces and local coin shops are your best bet. Always check recently completed sales rather than active listings to get a realistic idea of what people are actually paying. Modern dimes are a fun way to start a collection without spending a fortune, and you just might find a 1982-P that pays for your next dinner!
FAQ
Q: Is the 1982-P Roosevelt Dime made of silver?
A: No, 1982-P Roosevelt Dimes are not silver. They are made of a clad composition consisting of 75% copper and 25% nickel over a pure copper core. The last circulating silver dimes were minted in 1964.
Q: How can I tell if my 1982 dime is a “No P” error?
A: Look at the area just above the date. A normal Philadelphia dime will have a “P,” and a Denver dime will have a “D.” If the area is completely smooth and blank, and there is no evidence of the letter being scratched off, you likely have the rare “No P” error.
Q: What is the highest price ever paid for a 1982-P dime?
A: High-grade examples in MS68 with Full Bands have sold at auction for over $1,500. However, these are exceptionally rare and usually requires professional grading to achieve such prices.
Q: Does the mint mark ‘P’ mean it’s worth more?
A: Generally, no. Most 1982 dimes from Philadelphia have the ‘P’. Its value is determined more by its condition (state of preservation) and whether it has “Full Bands” on the reverse torch rather than the mint mark itself.
