The 1970 No S Roosevelt Dime is worth anywhere from $500 in lower proof grades to over $2,000 for specimens in pristine condition. This rare United States coin is a treasure hunter’s dream, primarily because it was created by a minting error that left off the essential “S” mint mark.
The Rare Error That Makes the 1970 No S Dime Valuable
If you have a collection of old coins from a relative or found a shiny dime in a proof set, you might be holding a small fortune. Most dimes produced at the San Francisco Mint carry a small “S” above the date, but a tiny fraction of the 1970 proof sets were released without this mark. Detecting these errors is exactly why many collectors use a top coin identifier app to scan their change before spending it.
This specific error occurred because the Philadelphia Mint, which typically doesn’t use mint marks, sent a die to San Francisco that was missing the “S” punch. The workers at the San Francisco Mint didn’t notice the mistake immediately, and several hundred (estimates suggest around 2,000 to 2,200) were struck and packaged into 1970 Proof Sets. Because these were issued in official government packaging, many families have them sitting in closets without realizing their true worth. If you aren’t sure what you have, downloading the CoinHix app can help you distinguish between a common circulation coin and a rare proof error.
How to Identify a Genuine 1970 No S Proof Dime
Identification is the most critical step for any amateur coin collector. First, you must understand that this coin is a “Proof.” Proof coins are not meant for general circulation; they are specially struck for collectors and usually have a mirror-like, shiny background with frosted details. If you find a 1970 dime in your pocket change that lacks a mint mark, it is likely just a common dime from Philadelphia worth exactly ten cents.
To be the valuable “No S” variety, the coin must have been broken out of a 1970-S Proof Set or still be inside one. The surfaces should be exceptionally smooth, almost like a mirror. Authentic specimens are highly sought after by professionals who track 1970 No S dime auction records and prices. Before you take it to a dealer, using CoinHix can provide a quick visual comparison to ensure your coin matches the characteristics of a high-value proof.
Current Market Value and Price Comparison Table
The value of a 1970 No S Roosevelt Dime depends heavily on its “grade,” which refers to its physical condition and the quality of its mirror finish. Professional graders use a 70-point scale. A “Proof 68” might sell for a few hundred dollars, while a perfect “Proof 70” is an incredibly rare find that can fetch high four-figure sums at specialized auctions.
Prices fluctuate based on market demand, but the scarcity of this error keeps the floor relatively high compared to other modern coins. Collectors often consult dedicated price guides to see the latest 1970 dime value trends and minting varieties.
| Condition / Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| PR65 (Proof – Light Scratches) | $450 – $600 |
| PR67 (Proof – Near Perfect) | $750 – $950 |
| PR69 (Proof – Virtually Flawless) | $1,200 – $1,800 |
| PR70 (Proof – Absolute Perfection) | $2,500+ |
Why Condition Matters for Roosevelt Dimes
In the world of numismatics, the difference between a $100 coin and a $1,000 coin is often invisible to the naked eye. For the 1970 No S Dime, collectors look for “Cameo” or “Deep Cameo” (DCAM) designations. A Deep Cameo coin has a heavy frost on Roosevelt’s portrait that contrasts sharply against a deep, dark, mirror-like field. These are the most desirable versions of the error.
Even a tiny fingerprint can lower the value of a proof coin significantly because the oils from your skin can “eat” into the delicate finish. If you suspect you have found one, handle it only by the edges or wear lint-free cotton gloves. Many collectors use CoinHix to keep a digital inventory of their finds, ensuring they have high-resolution photos for insurance purposes before sending the physical coin off for professional grading.
Common Scams and False No S Dimes
The most common mistake people make is confusing a standard Philadelphia 1970 dime with the rare San Francisco error. In 1970, the Philadelphia Mint produced over 345 million dimes. None of these coins have a mint mark, and they are only worth their face value of ten cents if they have been circulated.
The real 1970 No S Dime is only found in “Proof” format. If the coin is dull, scratched, or looks like the change in your pocket, it is not the rare error. Be wary of sellers on auction sites trying to pass off regular business strikes as the “No S” variety. Using a reliable tool to verify the strike type is essential for any modern collector. Always look for that reflective, glass-like background that characterizes a proof strike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can I tell if my 1970 dime is a proof?
A: Proof coins have a very shiny, mirror-like finish and sharp details. They were sold in plastic sets by the Mint and were not meant to be spent in stores. If the coin looks like a normal, matte-finished dime, it is a business strike from Philadelphia.
Q: Where was the 1970 No S dime supposed to be minted?
A: It was minted in San Francisco. Normally, all coins from that mint carry an “S” mint mark. The 1970 No S is an error because the mint mark was accidentally left off the die.
Q: Are there other “No S” dimes I should look for?
A: Yes! The Roosevelt dime series has several famous “No S” years, including 1968, 1975, and 1983. The 1975 No S is the rarest of them all, with only two known to exist.
Q: Is it worth getting my 1970 dime professionally graded?
A: If you are certain it is a proof coin without a mint mark, then yes. Professional grading by companies like PCGS or NGC is necessary to authenticate the coin and secure its maximum market value.
Q: Can I still find these in the wild?
A: While it is extremely rare to find a proof coin in circulation, it does happen when someone accidentally spends a coin collection. However, your best chance of finding one is by checking old “1970-S” proof sets.
