This 1975 Dime Sold for $506,250 – The Rare Error That Made It a Fortune

It’s all worth a half million bucks for a freaking dime back in 1975: Just imagine – you stumble across a dime hardly bigger than a speck and suddenly you become half a million bucks richer. That’s what just happened to a 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime which went straight to the house at auction for a write-off of an incredible $506,250. If such a thing sounds unbelievable, it certainly does have an interesting minting error that went into the consideration of the value of this coin, which probably still hides in that cabinet sitting in someone’s coin collection somewhere. This guide aims to go through everything that is important to know about this extremely rare coin, how to recognize it, and what is its story, do’s and don’ts from being a beginner and insightful for professionals.

$506,250 for a 1975 Dime

The 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime proves that sometimes even the tiniest errors lead to priceless treasures. A second look on the old collections can be worthwhile whether you are a seasoned numismatist or just curious about coins. In fact, very few people have seen this: only two examples are known. However, history shows us that if a person finds a really lucky specimen, he can find just that and have a life-changing discovery.

What Is the 1975 No-S Dime?

The 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime is among the rarest modern U.S. coins. It is referred to as “No-S” because it lacks the “S” mintmark that is supposed to characterize coins struck at the San Francisco Mint. These coins were made especially for collectors as part of proof sets, which are high-quality coins produced with a mirror finish.

In a case of plain minting error-an unmarked die was used-a small number of dimes left the Mint without the identifying “S”. Only two examples have ever been authenticated, thus ranking it as one of the rarest and popularly sought modern coins.

A Brief History of U.S. Mint Errors

Mint errors have fascinated collectors for centuries. Among the more common errors are double strikes, wrong planchets (blank metal discs), off-center strikes, and missing mint marks. Other famous error coins in U.S. history include:

• The 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent,
• The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel,
• And, of course, the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime.

Mint errors are considered to be among the most exciting finds because they combine rarity with good stories, according to the American Numismatic Association.

How the 1975 No-S Dime Was Discovered?

An Ohio family bought the 1975 proof set from a coin dealer for $18,200, assuming it to be special, way back in 1978. It was consigned to a bank vault, where its next generations inherited it and authenticated through PCGS as a legitimate 1975 No-S proof dime.

The coin was auctioned by GreatCollections in October 2024, selling for $506,250 in a hotly contested bidding, setting the world record for this type of coin.

How to Spot a $506,250 for a 1975 Dime?

If you have old proof sets lying in a drawer, then here is a lucid step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Locate a 1975 Proof Set

Search for unopened (or uncirculated) or mint condition 1975 U.S. Proof Sets. They normally come in some hard plastic cases provided by the Mint.

Step 2: Inspect the Dime

Using a good magnifying glass, check the dime closely:

• It should have a mirror finish background and frosted raised features.
• It must not have an “S” mint mark above the year.

Step 3: Check the Proof Status

A standard Philadelphia dime from 1975 is also mint-mark free but does not have the mirror-like proof finish.

Step 4: Authenticate the Coin

• If you believe you have one: Submit it to either one of the two grading bodies PCGS or NGC.
• These reputable grading companies will ascertain the authenticity and condition of your coin, grade it in a tier that ultimately determines its value.

Common Mistakes To Avoid While Searching

• Believing that every no mint-mark dime is rare: Regular Philadelphia dimes minus mint marks are quite common.
• Damaging: Proper handling should include handling coins by the edges, and always where possible, using gloves.
• Disregarding professional grading: Acknowledgment by a revered grader holds importance while selling at top prices.

Investment Potential of the 1975 No-S Dime

Rare coins acquire the edge of excitement in investment. Experts project that if another 1975 No-S Dime ever surfaces, it may sell for even higher than $506,250. As rare mint errors have grown in demand among affluent collectors looking for something special, the competition will remain fierce.

The Professional Numismatists Guild asserts that rare U.S. coins have in the past demonstrated excellent growth in value over the long term when compared to other collectibles.

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Jennifer