A Small Coin With a Big Story
A rumor making the rounds in coin circles has people checking their change again: a rare Roosevelt dime tied to a major mint error could be worth more than $2 million, and some believe examples might still be undiscovered in collections or old proof sets. The buzz is rooted in the famous 1975 “No S” proof Roosevelt dime, a San Francisco–made proof coin missing the “S” mint mark that has twice set record prices and remains one of the most coveted modern U.S. rarities. Only two confirmed examples exist, but experts say more could theoretically surface, likely from sealed 1975 proof sets—not daily pocket change.
Why This Dime Is So Valuable
In 1975, the San Francisco Mint struck millions of proof coins for collectors, all supposed to carry an “S” mint mark near the date—but a tiny batch of proof dimes left the mint without it, creating a modern rarity. These errors are not regular Philadelphia no-mint-mark dimes; they are mirror-like proof strikes with frosted devices that were never meant for circulation. One example sold for $456,000 in 2019 and reportedly changed hands days later for $516,000, while another set a fresh record in October 2024 at $506,250, underlining intense global demand for the type.
Could One Be in Circulation?
Most specialists say any undiscovered piece is far more likely to be hiding in an unopened 1975 proof set than rattling around in change, given these were San Francisco proofs shipped to collectors and not struck for everyday use. Still, the possibility of a long-forgotten proof coin slipping into the wild through estate sales, mixed lots, or household moves keeps the legend alive—and keeps people checking their jars and drawers.
How to Check Your Dimes
Look specifically at the date: 1975 is key for this error.
- Check the mint mark area near the date: a true rarity is a 1975 proof dime with no “S” at all.
- Confirm proof characteristics: sharp, mirrored fields and frosted designs distinguish proofs from business strikes.
- Avoid confusion: most 1975 dimes without a mint mark are standard Philadelphia circulation coins and are not the valuable error.
- If a 1975 dime looks prooflike and lacks the “S,” seek professional authentication immediately from a top grading service.
Recent Sales That Fueled the Frenzy
Publicity around a family-held 1975 “No S” proof dime consigned to auction and then selling for just over half a million dollars in late 2024 helped reignite the hunt, with auctioneers fielding worldwide interest and calling the coin a “grail” of modern numismatics. The story underscores that while only two are confirmed, the discovery of another example—especially in an intact proof set—would be a headline event.
Key Facts About the 1975 “No S” Proof Dime
The $2.1 million figure reflects the upper edge of speculation for a once-in-a-generation find, but the documented market shows these coins already command around half a million dollars—and could go higher if another surfaces in prime condition. For anyone with old proof sets or inherited collections, a careful check of 1975 dimes could be worth life-changing money, provided the coin is a true San Francisco proof with no “S” and is authenticated by experts.
