In a remarkable turn of events, a 1965 Roosevelt Dime discovered in a circulated coin roll has made headlines by selling for an astonishing $12,600 at auction.
This unexpected windfall has captured the attention of numismatists and casual collectors alike, highlighting the hidden treasures that may reside in everyday pocket change.
The Significance of the 1965 Roosevelt Dime
The year 1965 marked a pivotal change in U.S. coinage. Due to rising silver prices, the U.S. Mint transitioned from producing dimes with 90% silver content to a copper-nickel clad composition.
However, during this transition, some dimes were mistakenly struck on leftover silver planchets, creating rare and valuable error coins.
Notable 1965 Roosevelt Dime Error: Struck on Silver Planchet
One such error coin, a 1965 Roosevelt Dime struck on a 90% silver planchet, recently surfaced and garnered significant attention.
Weighing approximately 2.5 grams, this coin was authenticated and graded AU-55 by NGC, ultimately selling for $12,600 at auction.
Identifying a 1965 Silver Roosevelt Dime
To determine if a 1965 Roosevelt Dime is struck on a silver planchet, consider the following characteristics:
- Weight: Silver dimes weigh around 2.5 grams, whereas clad dimes weigh approximately 2.27 grams.
- Edge: Silver dimes have a solid silver edge, while clad dimes display a copper-colored stripe along the edge.
- Sound: Silver coins produce a distinctive ringing sound when dropped, unlike the duller sound of clad coins.
Auction Records for 1965 Roosevelt Dimes
| Coin Description | Grade | Auction Price | Auction Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1965 Dime on 90% Silver Planchet | AU-55 | $12,600 | March 2024 |
| 1965 Dime Full Bands (FB) | MS-68 | $3,819 | 2013 |
| 1965 Dime Special Mint Set (SMS) SP68 CAM | SP-68 | $2,585 | 2014 |
| 1965 Dime Full Torch (FT) | MS-69 | $1,528 | 2017 |
Tips for Collectors
If you’re interested in discovering valuable coins in circulation, consider the following tips:
- Check Coin Rolls: Purchase rolls of coins from banks and examine each coin carefully.
- Use a Scale: A precise scale can help identify coins with unusual weights, indicating potential errors.
- Inspect Edges: Look for coins with solid silver edges, as this may indicate a silver planchet.
- Seek Professional Appraisal: If you believe you’ve found a rare coin, consult a professional grading service for authentication.
The discovery of a 1965 Roosevelt Dime struck on a silver planchet serves as a thrilling reminder that valuable treasures can still be found in everyday change.
With a keen eye and a bit of knowledge, collectors and enthusiasts alike have the opportunity to uncover hidden gems that hold both historical significance and substantial monetary value.
FAQs
Why are some 1965 Roosevelt Dimes valuable?
Due to a transitional error during the switch from silver to clad coinage, some 1965 dimes were mistakenly struck on silver planchets, making them rare and valuable.
How can I tell if my 1965 dime is silver?
Check the coin’s weight (silver dimes weigh about 2.5 grams), examine the edge for a solid silver color, and listen for a distinctive ringing sound when dropped.
What is the significance of “Full Bands” on a Roosevelt Dime?
“Full Bands” refers to the distinct horizontal lines on the torch’s bands on the reverse side of the dime. Coins with this feature are often more desirable to collectors.
Where can I get my coin authenticated?
Professional grading services like NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company) and PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) offer authentication and grading services for coins.