A shocking numismatic revelation has surfaced: a Roosevelt dime discovered in a child’s piggy bank recently fetched a staggering $400,000+ at auction.
This stunning find has reignited interest in modern coin errors. Here’s everything you need to know.
What Makes This Coin Exceptional
This is no ordinary dime—it’s a 1975 “proof” Roosevelt dime minted in San Francisco, distinguished by the complete absence of the “S” mint mark.
Only two examples of this mint‑mark error are known. The latest auctioned coin joined its counterpart, which sold for $456,000 in 2019
Provenance & Auction Figures
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 1975 |
| Mint | San Francisco (proof coin) |
| Error | Missing “S” mint mark |
| Rarity | Only 2 known examples |
| Previous known sale (2019) | $456,000 |
| Latest sale price | Reported over $400,000 |
| Original purchase (1978) | $18,200 as a “financial safety net” |
| Stored | Within a child’s piggy bank for decades |
Historical Context & Error Origin
In 1975, the San Francisco Mint produced over 2.8 million proof sets, each featuring six coins for around $7.
A mint error led to at least two dimes being struck without an “S” mint mark, a discovery that emerged a few years after distribution.
These rare coins are now considered gems in modern numismatics.
Why the Dime Commands Such High Value
- Extreme rarity: Only two are known to exist.
- High-grade condition: Proof coins retain sharp detail and lustre.
- Collectibility: Roosevelt dimes are popular, and error varieties draw premium prices.
- Proven pedigree: Auction history boosts authenticity and investor confidence.
The other known example achieved $456,000 in 2019. Adjusting for market trends and collector demand, the recent sale topping $400,000 reflects a consistent and rising valuation
Discovery Story
Keeping with many numismatic legends, this dime’s trajectory is remarkable:
- Found by a child in their home piggy bank.
- Held unseen for years while tucked into a coin jar.
- Eventually validated and sent to auction, lighting up the collector world with its rarity and story.
Impact on Collectors & The Market
- Renewed interest in examining change, piggy banks, and vintage proof sets.
- Educational reminder: Modern coins can hold surprising value.
- Potential for more discoveries, though any additional mis‑minted coins would also likely stem from 1975 proof sets
The recent $400,000+ sale of a 1975 Roosvelt “No‑S” dime found in a child’s piggy bank is a testament to the enduring allure of coin errors.
It proves that even everyday change can yield extraordinary value. With only two known examples, each dime is a prized artifact of modern mint history—challenging collectors and casual savers alike to look closely at their coins.
Let this remarkable find serve as a reminder: hidden treasures may lie in the most familiar places—your own piggy bank included.
FAQs
Why did removing the “S” mint mark increase value so much?
Mint marks indicate origin: Philadelphia (P), Denver (D), San Francisco (S). The missing “S” on a proof dime is an extremely rare mistake, triggering high collector demand.
How many of these error dimes are known to exist?
Only two confirmed examples—the recently sold coin and its 2019 counterpart—are documented.
Could there be more undiscovered examples?
Possibly, but only among the 1975 proof sets. The chance of finding one in general circulation is very low.