It might be easy to overlook a dime from 1970, but collectors know some of these coins are worth a small fortune. What’s behind their surprising value? A combination of mint errors, unique varieties, condition grading, and more. This guide has curated the factors that make certain 1970 Roosevelt dimes prized additions. Read on to see them all.
A Surprising Piece of History
The Roosevelt dime may seem ordinary, but it has an unexpected story. Released during a period of change in U.S. coinage, it reflects a shift from silver to copper-nickel coins. Its design and history make it a fascinating piece that reflects the era’s economic and political shifts.
Why Roosevelt is on the Dime
Franklin D. Roosevelt appears on the dime as a tribute to his work in founding the March of Dimes. This organization fought polio, a disease he personally battled. After Roosevelt’s passing in 1945, the U.S. Mint honored his legacy by replacing the Mercury dime with one bearing his likeness.
An Alloy That Made a Mark
Unlike older ones, this dime is not made of silver. Instead, it’s 75% copper and 25% nickel, which helped lower costs. While the switch to these materials made the coin common in everyday circulation, the right combination of rarity and condition can still make certain ones worth a lot more.
Three Mints, One Year
In 1970, three U.S. mints produced Roosevelt dimes: Denver, Philadelphia, and San Francisco. Denver and Philadelphia’s coins went straight into circulation, while San Francisco minted special proof coins for collectors. Each mint left its unique mark on these dimes, some rarer than others.
Denver’s Massive Minting
Denver’s mint churned out over 754 million dimes, flooding the market with these coins. But don’t let that huge number fool you—some of the dimes from this batch, especially in mint condition, can fetch surprising prices. Collectors are particularly keen on those with fully visible design details.
Philadelphia’s No-Mintmark Coins
Philadelphia’s dimes came without any mintmark, producing 345 million in total. While they’re the second-most common from 1970, their value lies in condition. The rarer high-grade examples, especially those rated MS-65 or higher, can bring in significantly higher prices than their circulated counterparts.
San Francisco’s Sleek Proof Coins
San Francisco minted special-proof dimes designed for collectors, producing just over 2.6 million. These coins have a striking, mirror-like finish and are more valuable due to their scarcity. Proof dimes graded PR-68 or higher are particularly sought after and can sell for impressive amounts at auction.
The Legendary No-S Proof Dime
The No-S Proof dime is one of the rarest errors from 1970. San Francisco mistakenly omitted the “S” mintmark on a small number of proof dimes—only about 2,200 exist. These rare coins can get thousands of dollars in pristine condition, making them a major prize for collectors.
The Thrill of Error Coins
Ordinarily, minting errors lower the quality of a coin, but for collectors, these mistakes are goldmines. Off-center strikes, double dies, and wrong-planchet errors from this year hold special value. Depending on their rarity and uniqueness, these flawed dimes can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Grading Coins for Top Value
Coins are graded using the Sheldon Scale, a 70-point system created in 1949 by Dr. William Sheldon. This scale ranges from Poor (P-1) to Perfect Uncirculated (MS-70). Coins graded MS-65 or higher indicate excellent condition, featuring sharp details and little to no wear, which can greatly increase the coin’s overall value.
Grading Beyond Numbers: The Power of Eye Appeal
Eye appeal can dramatically affect a coin’s desirability, even within the same grade. Coins with bright luster, clear details, and minimal imperfections tend to attract collectors more. A coin with great visual appeal can command a higher price and is more likely to stand out to buyers.
What Makes Full Bands Special?
A dime with clear “Full Bands” on the torch’s design is highly prized by collectors. This detail indicates that the coin’s design is sharp and well-struck. Full Band coins can significantly increase a dime’s value, often selling for several hundred dollars more than standard issues.
Debunking Common Myths
Not every dime from 1970 is a jackpot. Most circulated coins are worth only a little more than face value. However, rare varieties, high-grade coins, and those with errors are where the real money lies. Knowing what to look for can help separate the common from the valuable.
Auction Prices That Surprise
Some coins from this year have sold for stunning amounts at auction. A rare No-S Proof dime went for over $6,000 at a Heritage auction in 2004. Other high-grade or error coins have also sold for thousands, proving that these dimes can be worth much more than pocket change.
Proof vs. Circulation: What’s the Difference?
Proof coins and circulation coins are worlds apart in quality. Proof dimes are struck with extreme precision, creating a polished, mirror-like finish that collectors love. Circulation dimes, made for everyday use, lack this finish and often show signs of wear. Naturally, the proof becomes more valuable.
The Strange Case of the Wrong Planchet
One of the rarest errors from 1970 involved a dime struck on the wrong planchet. This error happened when a dime was accidentally struck on a smaller Philippine one-cent planchet. This rare find sold for over $4,000, making it one of the most expensive mistakes in dime history.
The Range of Collector Prices
Prices for these dimes can vary dramatically. Circulated coins are generally only worth a few cents over their face value, while high-grade or error coins can sell for hundreds or even thousands. The condition and rarity of the coin are the two most significant factors in determining its worth.
Why the 1970 Dime Stands Out
Despite being over 50 years old, these dimes remain popular among collectors. Their appeal lies in the combination of error coins, high-grade examples, and rare proofs. Even today, collectors continue to search for these special dimes, making them a permanent part of numismatic history.
The Long-Term Investment Potential
High-grade or error coins from this year may see their value increase over time. Numismatists suggest that as demand for rare coins grows, the market value of well-preserved examples could rise. Holding onto a pristine 1970 dime might turn out to be a smart long-term investment.
Where to Buy and Sell Your 1970 Dime
Looking to buy or sell one of these valuable dimes? Online platforms like eBay and Etsy are great places to start, but certified coin dealers and auction houses are your best bet for serious transactions. Make sure to have your coin graded to ensure you get the best possible price.
