The regular Roosevelt dime has an image of Franklin D. Roosevelt on the front and a torch with olive and oak branches on the back and is 10-cent coins minted in 1968.
However, certain dimes minted in 1968 are among the rarest due to a minting error-the absence of the ‘S’ mint mark, the sign of coinage at the San Francisco Mint.
These ‘No S’ dimes are highly desired by collectors; some have sold for upwards of $45,600 in auctions.
Understanding the Error of No S Mint Mark:
In 1968, American Mint placed marks once again after a partial absence between 1965 to 1967. Proof coins manufactured in San Francisco were supposed to carry an S mintmark.
However, a few proof dimes were inadvertently struck without this mintmark, creating the rare No S variety.
The exact number of error coins is unknown; however, the estimate suggests that only a few dozen were made, making them a true numismatic delight.
The ‘No S’ Dime of 1968 is known for certain remarkable traits:
- The obverse design: A portrait of President Franklin D. Roosevelt designed by Chief Engraver John R. Sinnock.
- The reverse design: A torch flanked by olive and oak branches depicting liberty, each representing an aspect of this model-denoms. term: peace strength.
- Composition: A copper-nickel clad, comprising 75% copper and 25% nickel over a pure copper core.
- Diameter: 17.90 millimeters
- Weight: 2.27 grams.
Value and Uniqueness:
A 1968 “No S” dime is valued according to its grade, with the finest examples selling for big bucks. For instance, an original PR68 sold for $32,200 in 2005.
In 2025, very much the same coins were sold at auctions for about $45,600. Still a strong selling point among collectors.
Collectibility and Demand:
The ‘No S’ dimes are coin collector’s delight when it comes to extreme scarcity. They rarely turn up in auctions; certain years record only one or two coins to hit the market.
And hence this rarity constitutes a strong demand and therefore keeps these coins as valuable contributors to any collection.
Identify a 1968 ‘No S’ Dime:
With the help of the obverse side of the coin just over the date, you will be able to determine whether your dime is a 1968 ‘No S’ after finding that it does not carry the ‘S’ mintmark.
It is important to note that Philadelphia business strike coins also do not carry mintmarks, but these are common, and their value is more than negligible.
Value Estimates Based on Coin Condition
| Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| PR65 | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| PR66 | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| PR67 | $20,000 – $35,000 |
| PR68 | $35,000 – $50,000 |
To summarize, the ‘No S’ Roosevelt Dime of 1968 is a rare and valuable coin that has all the collectors and numismatists sitting up and taking notice. Its scarcity and unique history have made it a coveted item among enthusiasts.
Almost $20,000 has been collected for the dimes under examination, so collectors find the 1968 ‘No Mint Mark’ Roosevelt Dime quite fascinating as a rarity.
For collectors and others who love to look at pocket change for things of interest, this coin is worth taking note of. The coin is highly valued owing to a minting error and therefore considered very collectible.
Be sure to get your coins recognized to establish their actual worth before selling them, trading them, or contemplating adding them to your collection. Keep watch for those mints—maybe a fortune lies between your fingers!
FAQS:
How can I tell if my 1968 dime really is ‘No S’?
First, you check the obverse of a coin and see above the date. If there is no ‘S’, that could indicate a No-S variety; however, make sure the coin is a proof, as a business strike from Philadelphia would not indicate a mint mark either
Are all the 1968 dimes that do not hold a mint mark valuable?
In fact, no; criminals sprout from the clutches of the mint of San Francisco only with the absence of an ‘S’ mint mark. A normal business strike from Philadelphia without a mint mark is common and will not fetch any value above the face value.
How many of the 1968 ‘No S’ dimes are known to exist?
It is unknown, although estimates put it at a few dozen, making it extremely rare.
What is the highest price paid at auction for a 1968 ‘No S’?
Prices of some examples have gone as high as the $45,600 level at auction depending on condition and grade.