1968 No‑S Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime – The coin collecting world witnessed a dramatic surge in excitement when a rare 1968 No-S Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime stunned collectors by selling for a whopping $7,500 at a recent auction. This tiny silver coin, missing the expected “S” mint mark from the San Francisco Mint, has become a treasure among numismatists due to its rarity, historical curiosity, and the mystery surrounding its origin. Mint errors like the No-S dime spark immense enthusiasm in the collector community, especially when their existence is undocumented or extremely limited. In this article, we delve into why this specific dime has gained such traction, its origin story, how to identify it, and how much value similar coins can fetch today.
What Makes the 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime So Rare?
Only a handful of these No-S mint mark dimes from 1968 are known to exist. Unlike most coins minted at the San Francisco Mint, which are stamped with an “S”, this dime slipped through without any such marking, making it incredibly valuable.
Key points about its rarity:
- Year: 1968
- Type: Roosevelt Dime (proof coin)
- Mint Error: Missing “S” mint mark
- Minted at: San Francisco (proof coins only)
- Estimated Quantity: Less than 20 known specimens
Auction Highlight: When and How It Reached $7,500
At a recent numismatic auction, a pristine 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime in Proof 68 condition drew intense bids, ultimately hammering at $7,500. This price stunned both sellers and collectors, as it exceeded previous estimates.
| Auction Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Auction House | Heritage Auctions |
| Coin Type | 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime |
| Condition | Proof 68 (PCGS graded) |
| Final Bid | $7,500 |
| Number of Bidders | 24+ |
| Date of Auction | July 2025 |
Why the Missing Mint Mark Matters So Much
The lack of an “S” mint mark is not just a design oversight — it’s a major anomaly. Proof coins are generally struck with great precision, and the presence or absence of mint marks helps identify their origins. In 1968, all proof dimes were supposed to be struck in San Francisco, meaning all should bear an “S”.
Here’s why it’s significant:
- Proof coins are carefully monitored, so an error is very rare.
- Mint marks help collectors track historical mintage.
- No-S proof dimes are unintentional and exceptionally rare.
Other Notable No‑S Mint Mark Coins in U.S. History
The 1968 No-S Dime isn’t the only coin to ever lack its mint mark. There have been a few others throughout U.S. minting history that similarly rose in value due to this error.
| Coin Type | Year | Auction Value (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Roosevelt Dime | 1968 | $7,500 |
| Roosevelt Dime | 1970 | $4,000 |
| Lincoln Cent | 1990 | $3,500 |
| Roosevelt Dime | 1983 | $2,000 |
How to Identify a 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime
If you believe you might have one of these rare coins, knowing what to look for is key. Here’s a simple breakdown.
Identification Guide for 1968 No‑S Dime
- Check the date: Must say 1968.
- Look for the mint mark location: Right side of the torch on the reverse or near the neck on the obverse.
- No “S” mark: If the space is blank, it could be rare.
- The coin should be a proof coin: mirror-like shine and sharp strike.
- Get it authenticated by PCGS or NGC to confirm.
How to Sell or Auction a Rare Coin Like This
If you own a No-S dime or any similar mint error, here are steps to help you get top dollar:
- Authenticate your coin through professional grading (e.g., PCGS).
- Contact major auction houses like Heritage or Stack’s Bowers.
- Avoid selling to random buyers or pawn shops.
- Use coin forums or collector networks for private deals.
- Promote the coin’s story and rarity in the auction listing.
How Collectors Are Responding to This Auction Record
The recent $7,500 auction has reignited interest in mint error coins, particularly proof dimes from the 1960s and 70s. Collectors are now carefully scanning their collections or searching online marketplaces for hidden treasures.
Some coin dealers reported:
- Spike in search traffic for 1968 dimes.
- Increased submissions of proof coins for grading.
- New collectors entering the hobby, curious about “No-S” errors.
FAQs of 1968 No‑S Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime
Q1. What is the 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime?
It’s a proof coin minted in San Francisco in 1968 that was mistakenly struck without the “S” mint mark.
Q2. How much is the 1968 No-S Dime worth today?
It recently sold for up to $7,500 at auction, depending on condition and certification.
Q3. How many of these No-S dimes exist?
Fewer than 20 examples are known, making it an extremely rare coin.
Q4. How do I know if I have a No-S dime?
Check your 1968 proof dimes for the absence of the “S” mint mark. A professional grading service can confirm it.
Q5. Can I sell a No-S dime myself?
Yes, but it’s best to go through reputable auction houses or get help from coin experts for proper valuation and sale.
