A simple dime from your pocket change could be worth a fortune. One rare error coin—the 1982 Roosevelt Dime with no mint mark—has captured the attention of collectors and investors alike. Valued at up to $385,000, this coin is one of the most valuable modern-day mint errors ever discovered. Here’s how to find out if you’re holding this hidden treasure.
What Makes the 1982 Dime So Valuable?
In 1982, most Roosevelt Dimes were produced at the Philadelphia (P) or Denver (D) Mint, each bearing its respective mint mark above the date on the obverse side. However, a rare batch of dimes struck at the Philadelphia Mint was accidentally released without the “P” mint mark—a key printing error that makes them extremely valuable today.
This mistake is significant because starting in 1980, the U.S. Mint began adding the “P” mint mark to Philadelphia dimes. So, any 1982 dime missing a mint mark isn’t just old—it’s a verified error coin.
How Did the No Mint Mark Error Happen?
The error occurred during the U.S. Mint’s transitional phase in the early 1980s. One of the dies used at the Philadelphia Mint was accidentally left without the required “P” mark. A limited number of dimes struck with this die made it into circulation before the error was discovered and corrected.
Where to Check on the Coin
Flip your 1982 Roosevelt Dime to the obverse side—the side with President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s profile. Look just above the date. If there’s no mint mark at all, and the year is 1982, you may be holding one of the rarest modern error coins.
Remember: Only the 1982 Philadelphia dimes without the mint mark are valuable. A 1982 Denver dime (marked “D”) without a mint mark is not a recognized error.
How Rare Is the 1982 No Mint Mark Dime?
According to leading grading companies like PCGS and NGC, fewer than 10 certified examples of the 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime exist. Their rarity, combined with a fascinating backstory, has turned them into some of the most desirable coins in U.S. numismatic history.
In fact, one pristine example reportedly sold for over $385,000 in a private auction. That’s more than most luxury cars—just for a ten-cent coin!
Tips for Identifying a 1982 No Mint Mark Dime
- Check the date: The coin must be from 1982.
- Inspect the mint mark area: There should be no “P” or “D” at all.
- Examine the condition: Coins in uncirculated or near-mint condition are far more valuable.
- Avoid confusion: Dimes from 1965 to 1967 were also issued without mint marks, but that was standard for the time—not an error.
What to Do If You Think You Found One
If you come across a 1982 dime with no mint mark, here’s how to proceed:
- Do not clean the coin — cleaning can lower its value.
- Handle it carefully — always hold coins by the edges to avoid damage.
- Place it in a protective holder — use a soft plastic coin flip or sleeve.
- Contact a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC for authentication and value assessment.
Why It Might Still Be in Circulation
Because only a small batch of the 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dimes made it into public circulation, and many people never look closely at their change, there’s still a chance these coins are sitting in piggy banks, change jars, or coin rolls unnoticed. With so few known to exist, even a circulated version could fetch thousands.
Final Thoughts: A Dime That Could Change Your Life
The 1982 Roosevelt Dime with no mint mark proves that treasures don’t always come in big packages. With just a little awareness, you might stumble upon a coin worth hundreds of thousands of dollars in your everyday change.
So next time you receive a dime, take a moment to examine it. A small mistake by the U.S. Mint could mean a life-changing payday for you.
FAQs
Q: What is the 1982 No Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime worth today?
A: Depending on condition, it can be worth anywhere from a few thousand dollars to over $385,000.
Q: How many 1982 No-P dimes exist?
A: Fewer than 10 verified examples are known to grading agencies like PCGS and NGC.
Q: Can a worn dime still be valuable?
A: Yes, but coins in uncirculated or near-mint condition usually fetch much higher prices.
Q: How can I verify if my dime is authentic?
A: Contact a certified coin grading service such as PCGS or NGC for professional authentication and grading.