The coin collecting hobby can be surprisingly lucrative, with millions of dollars in value potentially circulating in everyday change. One of the most sought-after anomalies is the 1982 Roosevelt dime without a mint mark—a coin that could be worth hundreds of dollars.
The 1982 No-Mint-Mark Dime: A Unique Error
Roosevelt dimes, honoring President Franklin D. Roosevelt, typically bear a mint mark indicating where they were produced: “P” for Philadelphia, “S” for San Francisco, “D” for Denver, or “W” for West Point. However, in 1982, approximately 150,000 dimes were accidentally released from the Philadelphia Mint without this crucial letter.
This omission makes these dimes exceptionally rare. Collectors actively seek them out, and even well-preserved examples in MS66 condition can sell for around $300. Higher-graded coins, such as MS67, have fetched over $630, while a pristine MS68 specimen sold for $2,185 in 2004.
Identifying the Rare Dime
The key is to examine a 1982 Roosevelt dime closely. Look to the right of the year stamp on the coin’s obverse (front) side. Normally, a mint mark will be present. If no letter appears in that spot, you may have found a valuable error.
Origin and Circulation
The initial discovery of these No-P dimes occurred near Sandusky, Ohio, with some even distributed as change at the local Cedar Point Amusement Park. Despite their rarity, a significant number are still believed to be in circulation today. While many have sold for thousands of dollars, those found in circulation are more likely to be worth between $100 and $300—still a worthwhile find for pocket change.
Grading and Value
Coin grading services like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) and NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company) assess coin conditions on a scale from MS-60 (heavily marked) to MS-70 (flawless). The higher the grade, the greater the value.
The Hunt Continues
Coin roll hunting—the practice of systematically examining rolls of coins from banks—is a popular method for serious collectors. Given the coin’s existence in circulation, it’s worth checking spare change or requesting rolls from your local bank.
In conclusion: While the odds of finding one are low, the potential reward makes hunting for the 1982 No-P Roosevelt dime a compelling endeavor. It highlights how seemingly ordinary coins can hold hidden value, rewarding those with a keen eye and a bit of luck.
