The story of a Roosevelt Dime valued at $9.8 million has captured the imagination of coin enthusiasts—yet does it hold true? While rare error Roosevelt Dimes have fetched six‑figure sums, the $9.8 million myth remains unverified.
In this article, we delve into the true history, the highest confirmed auction prices, and why the $9.8 million claim continues to circulate. Every detail and figure below reflects accurate, latest information.
Headings & Detailed Explanation
1. The Origin of the Roosevelt Dime
Introduced in 1946 to honor President Franklin D. Roosevelt, the Roosevelt Dime replaced the Mercury Dime. It was designed by John R. Sinnock, and remains in use with few changes—even as its composition shifted from 90% silver (until 1964) to copper‑nickel clad after 1965
2. What Makes a Roosevelt Dime Rare?
Most Roosevelt Dimes are common—struck in huge quantities. Rarity arises from minting errors, such as proof coins missing the mint mark, or pieces with “full torch bands” and exceptional grading. These anomalies are prized by collectors and elevated in value
3. The Confirmed Record Auction Values
The most valuable known Roosevelt Dimes include:
- 1975 “No S” proof dime (San Francisco mint error): sold for $506,250 in late 2024; its only other known twin sold for $456,000 in 2019
- 1968 “No S” proof dime: fetched about $45,600 according to provenance linked to Heritage Auctions and PCGS grading
There is no confirmed sale close to or exceeding $1 million, let alone $9.8 million.
4. The Myth of $9.8 Million Value
In mid‑2025, a viral article claimed a Roosevelt Dime in circulation might be worth $14.8 million. That value was speculative and unverified.
As of today, no Roosevelt Dime has ever sold for $9.8 million, nor is there evidence of one being appraised at that level
5. Key Facts & Verified Figures
| Attribute | Details / Value |
|---|---|
| Coin Type | Roosevelt Dime (10 c) |
| Introduced | January 1946 |
| Designer | John R. Sinnock |
| Composition (pre‑1965) | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Common Issues | Mint marks: P, D, S, W |
| Error Type | “No S” proof dime from 1975 |
| Known Examples (1975 No S) | Only 2 known specimens |
| Highest Confirmed Auction | $506,250 (2024 sale of a 1975 No S proof dime) |
| Second Example Price | $456,000 (sold in 2019) |
| Other Notable Error | 1968 “No S” proof dime sold around $45,600 |
| Claimed Myth Value | $9.8 million – no verification exists |
6. Why the Myth Persists
Sensational online stories circulated in 2025 claimed a dime was “still in circulation” and worth millions, citing rumors and vague expert speculation.
But coin‑grading authorities and major auction houses confirm only six‑figure sales. The leap to $9.8M or $14.8M reflects unsubstantiated hype, not factual evidence
Although it’s tempting to believe the tale of a Roosevelt Dime worth $9.8 million, the facts reveal otherwise. The top verified sales top out around half a million dollars.
Claims of multi‑million‑dollar valuations remain myths with no verified basis. But one thing is real: if you ever spot a 1975 proof Roosevelt Dime missing its “S” mint mark, it could be worth significant money—just not $9.8 million.
In truth, the story of the dime is fascinating enough—error coins, historic changes, and a reminder that sometimes treasures hide in plain sight, but plenty of hype outpaces reality.
FAQs
Could any Roosevelt Dime ever reach a $9.8 million sale?
Not based on current auction history. The known Roosevelts with even rare errors have never approached that figure.
What is the most valuable Roosevelt Dime sold to date?
The 1975 San Francisco proof dime missing the “S” mint mark sold for $506,250 in 2024.
How many “No S” proof dimes from 1975 exist?
Only two known specimens, making them extremely rare among proof issue errors.