1970-S Roosevelt Dime Value: Is Your Proof Coin Worth Money?
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The 1970-S Roosevelt Dime is worth anywhere from $2 in typical proof condition to over $2,000 for rare “No S” error varieties. For most everyday Americans, finding one of these shiny coins in a collection or an old mint set is an exciting introduction to the world of numismatics.
| Condition/Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Proof-65 (Common) | $2.00 – $5.00 |
| Proof-69 Deep Cameo | $25.00 – $40.00 |
| Proof-70 Deep Cameo | $350.00 – $600.00 |
| 1970 “No S” Error | $1,000.00 – $2,500.00+ |
Identifying the 1970-S Roosevelt Dime in Your Collection
If you have recently stumbled upon a shiny dime dated 1970 with an “S” mint mark, you are looking at a Proof coin produced at the San Francisco Mint. Unlike the dimes you find in your pocket change, these were struck specifically for collectors and were originally sold in plastic-encased Proof Sets. Using a top coin identifier and value app can help you confirm the strike type and ensure you aren’t mistaking a polished business strike for a true proof.
The 1970-S Roosevelt Dime is unique because the San Francisco Mint produced over 2.6 million of these coins, but only for collectors. Because they were never intended for circulation, most of them remain in excellent condition. However, if you find one that looks dull or scratched, it likely escaped its original packaging and spent time in the “wild.” While these circulated proofs aren’t worth a fortune, they are still a piece of history.
If you are unsure whether your coin is a valuable rarity or a common collectible, the CoinKnow app can provide an instant scan and identification. Simply take a clear photo of both sides of the coin. The app uses advanced image recognition to help you determine if your dime has the high-contrast “Cameo” finish that collectors crave.
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
Identify It & Know Its Real Value — Free Download
The “No S” Error: The Holy Grail of 1970 Dimes
The most important thing to look for when searching through 1970 dimes is the absence of a mint mark. While millions of dimes were made in Philadelphia without a mint mark, those were meant for circulation and are only worth face value. The real treasure is the 1970-S Proof Dime that was accidentally struck without the “S” mint mark. This error occurred when a die intended for Philadelphia was mistakenly used for proof production in San Francisco.
According to the latest 1970-S “No S” dime auction records, these coins are incredibly scarce, with only a few hundred known to exist. If you find a proof-like dime with no mint mark in a 1970 Mint Set, you could be sitting on a coin worth thousands of dollars. It is vital to distinguish between a standard Philadelphia business strike and this proof error.
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
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The CoinKnow app is an excellent tool for comparing your coin against known error types. It allows you to see high-resolution images of the “No S” variety so you can spot the mirror-like background fields that define a proof coin. Authentic “No S” errors are almost exclusively found within the original 1970 United States Proof Sets.
| Variety Type | Mintage | Rarity Scale |
|---|---|---|
| Standard 1970-S Proof | 2,632,810 | Common |
| 1970 “No S” Proof Error | Estimated 500-1,000 | Extremely Rare |
Grading and the Impact of Deep Cameo Finishes
For the standard 1970-S Proof Dime, value is determined almost entirely by its grade and the “Cameo” effect. In the early 1970s, the minting process didn’t always produce the stark white frosted portraits on jet-black mirror backgrounds that we see today. Coins that exhibit this heavy contrast are known as “Deep Cameo” (DCAM) or “Ultra Cameo.”
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
Identify It & Know Its Real Value — Free Download
When checking the current market value for 1970-S dimes, you will notice a massive price jump between a standard Proof-69 and a Proof-70. A Proof-70 grade represents a perfect coin with no visible flaws even under 5x magnification. Because these are so difficult to find, registry set collectors will pay a premium to own the finest known examples.
If your coin has a hazy or “milky” appearance, this is known as milk spotting. Unfortunately, this can lower the grade and the value of your 1970-S dime. To keep your coins in top condition, always handle them by the edges and store them in a cool, dry place inside acid-free holders.
1970-S Roosevelt Dime Price Reference Table
To help you understand what your coin might be worth at a local coin shop or online auction, we have compiled a price guide based on actual market sales. Keep in mind that “raw” or uncertified coins usually sell for less than those graded by professional services like PCGS or NGC.
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| Grade | Standard Proof Value | Cameo (CAM) Value | Deep Cameo (DCAM) Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| PR-65 | $2.50 | $4.00 | $7.00 |
| PR-67 | $5.00 | $10.00 | $18.00 |
| PR-68 | $8.00 | $15.00 | $25.00 |
| PR-69 | $15.00 | $22.00 | $45.00 |
Why the Mint Mark Location Matters for 1970 Dimes
During the 1970s, the mint mark was placed just above the date on the obverse (front) of the Roosevelt Dime. If you are examining a 1970 dime, you will see either a blank space above the date, a small “D,” or a small “S.” Understanding these locations is key to identifying which branch of the U.S. Mint produced your coin and how many were made.
The Denver Mint (D) produced over 345 million dimes for circulation in 1970, while the Philadelphia Mint produced over 75 million. These are extremely common and, unless they are in pristine “Mint State” condition, they are generally only worth their face value of ten cents. The San Francisco Mint (S) was solely responsible for the Proof versions, which is why the “S” mark is a sign of a collectible coin.
If you are just starting out with coin collecting, using CoinKnow can teach you how to spot these tiny mint marks easily. The app’s educational resources often highlight where to look for mint marks on different denominations, helping you transform from a casual observer into a knowledgeable collector.
How to Sell Your 1970-S Roosevelt Dime
If you discover that you have a valuable 1970-S dime, especially the “No S” error, your next step should be professional authentication. Large auction houses and serious collectors rarely buy high-value error coins without a certificate from a grading service like PCGS or NGC. This protects both the buyer and the seller.
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
Identify It & Know Its Real Value — Free Download
For more common 1970-S proof dimes, selling online through platforms like eBay or at a local coin show is often the best route. Because the shipping cost can sometimes outweigh the value of a $5 coin, many collectors choose to sell them in “lots” or groups. This makes it more attractive for buyers who are looking to fill gaps in their Roosevelt Dime albums.
Before you sell, make sure to check recent “Sold” listings rather than “Asking” prices. This gives you a realistic idea of what people are actually willing to pay. A 1970-S dime is a beautiful example of American coinage, and whether it’s worth $2 or $2,000, it remains a fascinating piece of the San Francisco Mint’s legacy.
| Selling Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Local Coin Shop | Instant cash, professional advice. | Lower payout than retail. |
| Online Auctions | Reaches global collectors. | Fees and shipping costs. |
| Heritage Auctions | Best for high-value errors. | Long process, high commissions. |
FAQ
Q: Is a 1970 dime made of silver?
A: No, the 1970-S Roosevelt Dime is not made of silver. The U.S. Mint stopped using 90% silver for dimes in 1964. The 1970-S dime is composed of a copper-nickel clad composition (a pure copper core bonded to outer layers of copper-nickel).
Q: How can I tell if my 1970 dime is a “No S” proof error or just a regular Philadelphia dime?
A: The easiest way to tell is by looking at the finish. A regular Philadelphia dime will have a matte or satin finish with “flat” details. A Proof “No S” error will have a mirror-like background, sharply defined strikes, and extra-sharp rims.
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
Identify It & Know Its Real Value — Free Download
Q: Are there any other 1970 dime errors to look for?
A: Yes, besides the “No S” error, you can look for doubled dies (where the lettering or date appears doubled), off-center strikes, or “clipped planchet” errors where a piece of the coin is missing.
Q: Where should I look for the mint mark on a 1970-S dime?
A: On a 1970 Roosevelt Dime, the “S” mint mark is located on the obverse (front) of the coin, just above the date on the right side of Roosevelt’s neck.
Q: Can I find a 1970-S dime in my spare change?
A: It is rare, but possible. Occasionally, someone will break open a proof set and spend the coins. These are called “impaired proofs.” They are still worth slightly more than ten cents to a collector, though they lose value due to wear and scratches.
