1968 No S Roosevelt Dime Value: Most Valuable Error Explained
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The 1968 No S Roosevelt Dime is worth anywhere from a few cents for common versions to over $40,000 for the rare “No S” proof error. Most dimes from this year found in your pocket change are only worth their face value, but knowing how to spot the rare exception is key.
| Condition / Variety | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Common Circulated (P or D) | $0.10 |
| Uncirculated MS65 (Philadelphia) | $2 – $5 |
| 1968-S Proof Dime | $3 – $10 |
| Rare 1968 “No S” Proof Error | $15,000 – $40,000+ |
Understanding the 1968 No S Roosevelt Dime Rare Variety
If you are going through an old coin collection or perhaps a jar of change, you might be looking for a hidden treasure. To truly understand why the 1968 No S Roosevelt Dime is so famous, you first need to recognize how US Mints operated that year. In 1968, the San Francisco Mint took over the production of “Proof” coins—these are high-quality coins made specifically for collectors, featuring a mirror-like finish.
By standard practice, every proof coin struck in San Francisco should carry an “S” mint mark. However, a small number of proof dies were sent from Philadelphia without the mint mark. This resulted in a tiny batch of dimes that look like shiny proofs but are missing the “S” above the date. If you aren’t sure if your coin has the right finish, using a top coin identifier and value app can help you distinguish between a standard business strike and a rare proof.
Identifying this coin requires a keen eye. Most 1968 dimes you find in your wallet were minted in Philadelphia (no mint mark) or Denver (with a ‘D’ mark). The rare variety is essentially a Philadelphia-style coin that was minted using the high-pressure, polished process of a San Francisco proof. Collectors are constantly scouring sets to find these, as only a few dozen are known to exist. If you think you’ve found one, the CoinKnow app can provide a quick reference to comparable sales.
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Current Market Prices for 1968 Dimes
While the “No S” error is the holy grail of this series, the value of a 1968 dime usually depends on its condition and where it was minted. Most circulated dimes from 1968 are made of 75% copper and 25% nickel. Unlike dimes from 1964 and earlier, these do not contain any silver. This means their “melt value” is very low, and their worth is almost entirely tied to their numismatic (collector) value.
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For those looking at high-grade specimens, the current 1968 Roosevelt dime price data suggests that coins in Mint State (MS) 67 or higher can still fetch a premium. While a standard dime from your pocket is worth ten cents, a perfectly preserved one from a mint set might sell for $20 to $50.
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| Grade | 1968 (P) Value | 1968-D Value | 1968-S Proof |
|---|---|---|---|
| MS63 | $1 | $1 | PR63 ($3) |
| MS65 | $5 | $6 | PR65 ($7) |
| MS67 | $45 | $55 | PR69 ($30) |
How to Identify a Genuine 1968 No S Proof Dime
The most common mistake beginners make is confusing a regular Philadelphia 1968 dime with the rare “No S” proof. Here is the trick: The rare error coin is a PROOF. Proof coins have a very specific look. They feature “mirror-like” backgrounds (fields) and very sharp, frosted details on Roosevelt’s portrait. Regular dimes found in change have a duller, more satin-like finish.
Furthermore, the “No S” dime only exists in 1968 proof sets. If you find a 1968 dime in a plastic-sealed Proof Set from the US Mint and it is missing the S mint mark, you have likely hit the jackpot. If you find a greasy, scratched 1968 dime in your car’s cup holder, it is almost certainly a common Philadelphia business strike worth only ten cents.
Using professional tools like CoinKnow allows you to compare the luster of your coin against high-resolution images of known proofs. This visual comparison is the most effective way for a novice to tell the difference without paying for a professional appraisal immediately. You want to look for the “Full Bell Lines” or “Full Torch” details on the reverse, which indicate a strong strike, common in proof-quality coins.
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Value Factors for 1968 Roosevelt Dimes
When determining worth, several factors come into play beyond just the mint mark. The condition, or “grade,” is the most significant factor for 1968 dimes. Coins are graded on a scale from 1 to 70. A coin that has been circulated—meaning it was used to buy groceries—will typically grade below 50. Coins that have never been used are “Uncirculated” and grade 60 or above.
The 1968 Roosevelt dime value guide indicates that “Full Torch” (FT) or “Full Bands” (FB) designations also add value. This refers to the horizontal bands on the torch on the back of the coin. If these bands are clearly separated and not blended together, the coin is much more desirable to collectors.
| Feature | Why it Matters | Value Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Full Torch (FT) | Shows a complete, sharp strike | Adds 20-50% to price |
| Mint Luster | Shiny, original surface appearance | Essential for MS65+ grades |
| Proof Finish | Mirror backgrounds | Required for “No S” status |
Where to Find and Sell Your 1968 Dimes
If you believe you have a high-value 1968 dime, the first step is to protect it. Put it in a soft coin flip or a plastic holder to prevent scratches. Fingerprints contain oils that can damage the surface of a coin over time, potentially lowering its grade. For common 1968 dimes, you can keep them in a simple folder, but for potential “No S” errors, professional grading is required.
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Selling these coins can be done through several channels. For common uncirculated coins, eBay is a popular choice. However, for a rare 1968 No S Proof, you should contact a major auction house like Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers. These organizations specialize in rare errors and can ensure you get the maximum market value. Before doing so, check CoinKnow to see what the most recent auction results looks like for similar items.
Keep in mind that the market for rare coins fluctuates. In recent years, high-end error coins have seen a surge in interest as more people look to alternative investments. A 1968 No S dime that sold for $20,000 ten years ago might be worth double that today if it’s in a high-grade slab from PCGS or NGC.
| Market Channel | Best For |
|---|---|
| Local Coin Shop | Quick cash, common dimes |
| Online Marketplaces (eBay) | Mid-range uncirculated coins |
| Heritage Auctions | Rare No S Errors & High Grades |
FAQ
Q: Is my 1968 dime silver?
A: No, standard 1968 Roosevelt dimes are not silver. The US Mint stopped using 90% silver for dimes in 1964. All 1968 dimes are made of a copper-nickel “clad” composition.
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Q: How many 1968 No S Dimes are there?
A: It is estimated that only about 6 to 12 specimens of the 1968 No S Proof Dime have been found, though some experts believe there could be around 20 to 30 total ever made. They are exceptionally rare.
Q: I found a 1968 dime with no mint mark in my change. Is it the rare one?
A: Highly unlikely. Dimes minted in Philadelphia in 1968 did not have a mint mark by design. Unless the coin is a “Proof” (mirror-like) and came from a 1968 Proof Set, it is just a regular pocket dime worth 10 cents.
Q: What is the highest price ever paid for a 1968 No S Roosevelt Dime?
A: A 1968 No S Roosevelt Dime graded PR68 by PCGS sold for $48,875 at an auction. Prices vary based on the specific grade and current demand among high-end collectors.
