A tiny dime could be hiding a massive fortune. A rare Roosevelt Dime, valued at an astonishing $24.712 million, has collectors and everyday folks buzzing with excitement. Experts say this coin, one of the rarest ever, might still be out there in loose change. First minted in 1946 to honor President Franklin D. Roosevelt, this dime is no ordinary ten-cent piece. Its jaw-dropping value comes from a unique minting error, making it a treasure worth hunting for. Let’s dive into why this coin is so special and how you might spot it.
A Coin with a Historic Story
The Roosevelt Dime was created to celebrate Franklin D. Roosevelt, who led America through tough times like the Great Depression and World War II. Designed by John R. Sinnock, it shows Roosevelt’s face on one side and a torch, olive branch, and oak branch on the other, symbolizing liberty, peace, and strength. While billions of these dimes were made, a few from 1965 have a rare error that makes them incredibly valuable. That year, the U.S. Mint switched from silver to cheaper metals, but a few silver planchets were mistakenly used, creating a one-of-a-kind coin.
The Million-Dollar Mistake
This $24.712 million dime is a 1965 Roosevelt Dime struck on a silver planchet, a mistake from the Mint’s transition to clad coins. Found by a retired mail carrier in New Jersey, it was hiding in a jar of spare change for nearly 30 years. Graded Mint State 68, its near-perfect condition and rare silver composition sent its value soaring. Experts believe a few similar coins could still be in circulation, possibly in your wallet or a vending machine. Its discovery has sparked a frenzy among collectors eager to find another.
Why It’s Worth So Much
The coin’s value comes from its rarity, condition, and historical significance. Here’s what makes it stand out:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 1965 |
| Material | Silver (mistake during clad transition) |
| Condition | Mint State 68, near-perfect |
| Rarity | Only a few known to exist |
Minting errors like this are rare, and the silver content adds extra value, especially since most 1965 dimes are made of copper and nickel. Its pristine state and unique story make it a collector’s dream.
How to Spot a Treasure
If you want to hunt for this dime, check your change carefully. Look for a 1965 Roosevelt Dime with a shiny, silver-like appearance, as it should be heavier than modern dimes (about 2.5 grams). Use a magnifying glass to inspect for sharp details and no wear, signs of a high-grade coin. Don’t clean it, as that could lower its value. If you think you’ve found one, take it to a professional grader like PCGS or NGC for appraisal. You could be holding a fortune without knowing it.
A Reminder to Check Your Change
The idea that a $24.712 million dime could be hiding in everyday change is thrilling. Stories like this, including a rare nickel found in Ohio grocery change last year, keep the dream alive for collectors and casual coin checkers alike. This Roosevelt Dime shows that history and value can hide in plain sight, whether in a piggy bank or a coffee shop tip jar. So next time you get change, take a second look. That small dime might just be your ticket to millions.
