Could you be carrying a hidden treasure in your pocket? While most dimes are worth just ten cents, there’s one rare 1987 Roosevelt Dime that has collectors on high alert. Thanks to a rare minting error, some of these dimes have sold for as much as $85,000. Before you spend your spare change, it might be worth taking a closer look you could be sitting on a mini jackpot without even knowing it!
Why the 1987 Dime Is So Special
The Roosevelt Dime has been in circulation since 1946, featuring President Franklin D. Roosevelt on the front and a torch surrounded by olive and oak branches on the back. But in 1987, something unusual happened.
Certain 1987 dimes were accidentally struck without a mint mark, making them incredibly rare. These “No Mint Mark” dimes were intended for proof sets made for collectors, but due to a mix-up at the San Francisco Mint, a small batch was released without the “S” mint mark. This rare mistake instantly made these dimes collector gold.
What Makes It Valuable?
✅ Rare Minting Error – Missing the mint mark that should have been there.
✅ Limited Quantity – Only a handful exist, making them highly sought after.
✅ High Auction Prices – Some have fetched between $70,000 to $85,000 depending on condition.
Rare 1987 Dime Types and Their Value
| Type of 1987 Dime | Estimated Value (Good Condition) |
|---|---|
| No Mint Mark Proof Dime | $50,000 – $85,000+ |
| 1987-D Error Strikes | $500 – $5,000+ |
Not every 1987 dime is valuable, but these error types can make a huge difference in your pocket change.
How to Spot a Rare 1987 Dime
Wondering if your dime could be the valuable one? Here’s what to look for:
| Feature | What to Check |
|---|---|
| Mint Mark | Check the area near Roosevelt’s neck on the coin’s front—missing mint mark is key. |
| Shiny Surface | Proof dimes have a glossy, mirror-like finish. Regular dimes appear duller. |
| Condition | Coins with no scratches, dents, or discoloration are worth significantly more. |
Tip: Use a magnifying glass to inspect closely. The missing mint mark can be very subtle.
Where You Can Find a Rare 1987 Dime
Think you have to be a seasoned collector to find one? Think again! Here’s where beginners can start their search:
- Loose Change: Always check dimes you get back from shops, cafes, or vending machines.
- Old Coin Jars: Search through your home coin jars or piggy banks.
- Family Collections: Grandparents’ or parents’ old collections might hide these rare gems.
- Bank Coin Rolls: Buying rolls of dimes from the bank is a popular method for treasure hunters.
- Estate Sales & Flea Markets: Vintage coin collections sometimes appear in these unexpected places.
While the odds are slim, people have found valuable coins in everyday change—so it’s always worth checking!
What to Do If You Think You Found One
If you believe you’ve spotted a rare 1987 dime, here’s what to do:
- Handle Carefully: Don’t clean or scratch it handling can damage its value.
- Proper Storage: Place it in a soft pouch or a plastic coin holder.
- Get It Appraised: Visit a local coin dealer or send it to a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC.
- Research Prices: Look at recent auctions or online sales to understand its current value.
- Consider Auctions: Rare coins often fetch higher prices at auction houses specializing in numismatics.
Final Thoughts
Your change could be hiding a life-changing coin. The 1987 No Mint Mark Dime is one of the rarest errors in modern U.S. coinage, and even beginners have a shot at finding one. With potential values reaching $85,000 or more, it’s always worth a quick glance before you spend that next dime.
So next time you go through your wallet, take an extra moment you might just discover a hidden treasure that turns ten cents into thousands of dollars.