Roosevelt Dime

Country of Origin: United States

Year of Issue: 1946-1964 (Silver series)

Denomination: 10 Cents (One Dime)

Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper

Roosevelt Dime

Brief Description

A small silver-colored coin featuring the profile of Franklin D. Roosevelt and symbols of peace and liberty on the reverse.

Historical Significance

Introduced in 1946 shortly after Roosevelt's death, honoring his leadership during WWII and his support for the March of Dimes. This silver version was replaced by copper-nickel clad in 1965.

Estimated Value

$1.80-$2.50 for common circulated dates (mostly metal value); $15-$50+ for high-grade Uncirculated or Key Dates.

Care Instructions

Do not clean or polish the coin, as this damages the surface and reduces collector value. Store in an acid-free holder or 'flip' to prevent environmental tarnishing.

Mint Mark

Typical: 'S' (San Francisco), 'D' (Denver), or No Mint Mark (Philadelphia), found at the base of the torch.

Mintage & Rarity

Generally common with mintages in the tens or hundreds of millions. 1949-S, 1950-S, and 1955 are lower mintage dates.

Weight & Diameter

2.50 grams / 17.9 mm

Edge

Reeded (118 reeds)

Apparent Grade

Very Good to Fine (appears heavily circulated with significant wear on high points and darkening of the silver/toning).

Obverse (Front)

Profile of President Franklin D. Roosevelt facing left. Inscriptions: 'LIBERTY', 'IN GOD WE TRUST', and the date. Designer: John R. Sinnock.

Reverse (Back)

A torch symbolising liberty, flanked by an olive branch (peace) and an oak branch (victory/strength). Inscriptions: 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', and 'ONE DIME'.

What Drives This Coin's Value

The primary factor for circulated Roosevelt dimes is the spot price of silver. For collectors, the presence of 'Full Torch' (FT) lines on the reverse significantly increases value in Mint State.

Similar Coins

Post-1964 Clad Roosevelt Dimes (which have a copper core visible on the edge and no silver content).

Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags

Check the edge for a copper stripe; if silver, the edge should be solid white/silver. Verify weight (2.5g) to ensure it is not a silver-plated clad coin.

Notable Varieties & Errors

1964-D Doubled Die Reverse, various 'clipped planchet' errors, and 'Full Torch' (FT) designations on high-grade specimens.

Created At: 2026-06-13T16:57:42.948984