The Roosevelt Dime, a small coin honoring President Franklin D. Roosevelt, has been in pockets since 1946. Named for the president who helped fight polio through the March of Dimes, this coin is a piece of American history. While most dimes are worth just 10 cents, some from the 1990s are rare and can fetch big bucks. Whether you’re digging through spare change or starting a coin collection, here’s a simple guide to 1990s Roosevelt Dimes that could make you rich.
Why Roosevelt Dimes Matter
Roosevelt Dimes were designed by John R. Sinnock and first minted after FDR’s death in 1945. They replaced the Mercury Dime and became a lasting tribute to Roosevelt’s work against polio. By the 1990s, these dimes were made of copper and nickel, not silver, so their melt value is low about $0.02. But certain 1990s dimes stand out due to rare features or minting errors, making them worth much more to collectors. The key is knowing which ones to look for.
The Star of the 1990s: 1996-W Dime
The 1996-W Roosevelt Dime is the big one to watch for. Minted at West Point to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Roosevelt Dime, it was only included in special 1996 Mint Sets, not regular circulation. This makes it the rarest dime of the decade, with just 1.46 million made. In top condition (MS-69 grade), it can sell for up to $425. If you find one in your change, it’s likely from a broken-up Mint Set, and it could be worth a nice chunk of cash.
Other Valuable 1990s Dimes
Most 1990s dimes are common, but a few have special traits that boost their value. For example, dimes with a “Full Bands” (FB) or “Full Torch” (FT) designation where the horizontal lines on the torch on the back are sharp and clear are prized by collectors. A 1999-D dime in MS-69 FB condition sold for $2,150 in 2009. Error coins, like those with off-center strikes or missing clad layers, can also be valuable. For instance, a 1990-P dime with a broadstrike error (misshapen due to minting issues) might fetch $5-$10, while one missing its nickel layer could be worth about $20.
Common 1990s Dimes and Their Values
Most 1990s Roosevelt Dimes are worth face value (10 cents) unless they’re in mint condition or have errors. Here’s a quick look at some key years and their top values in MS-65 grade, based on auction data:
| Year | Mint Mark | Max Value (MS-65) |
|---|---|---|
| 1990 | P or D | $5.25 |
| 1991 | P | $5.75 |
| 1993 | D | $5.25 |
| 1996 | W | $27.50 |
| 1999 | P or D | $4.60 |
Proof coins from San Francisco (marked with an “S”) are usually worth less unless they have errors, like missing mint marks. Always check for the “Full Bands” feature, as it can significantly increase a coin’s value.
How to Spot a Valuable Dime
To find a valuable 1990s Roosevelt Dime, start by checking the date and mint mark (a tiny letter like P, D, or W near the date). Look for errors like off-center designs, clipped edges, or a coppery look (indicating a missing nickel layer). A magnifying glass can help you spot the “Full Bands” on the torch. If you think you’ve got a rare one, get it appraised by a professional service like PCGS or NGC. Websites like eBay or Vcoins are great for selling, but auction houses are best for high-value coins. Happy hunting—your next dime could be a hidden treasure!
