The 1975 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime is an extraordinary rarity in the world of numismatics. This coin is notable for its missing “S” mintmark, which is typically found on dimes minted at the San Francisco Mint. With only two known examples in existence, it is an exceptional find. In 2024, one of these dimes was sold for an astounding $506,250, setting a new precedent for the value of coins with minting errors.
1894-S Barber Dime: A Legendary Treasure
The 1894-S Barber Dime is one of the most coveted coins in U.S. numismatics. Out of the 24 dimes originally minted, only nine remain, making this coin incredibly rare. Known for its intricate design and historical importance, the 1894-S Barber Dime fetched over $1.9 million in 2007, cementing its place among the most valuable coins ever produced in the U.S.
1913 Liberty Nickel: A Mysterious Minting
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is a numismatic enigma. Due to its unauthorized production, only five of these nickels were ever minted, making them exceedingly rare. The scarcity and mysterious history surrounding these coins have made them highly valuable, with auction prices reaching as high as $3.7 million. These coins are considered one of the crown jewels of U.S. coinage.
1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel: A Rare Overdate Error
The 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel is prized for its overdate error, where a 1917 die was used to mint the 1918 coins. This results in two overlapping dates on the coin, making it a highly sought-after piece among collectors. High-grade specimens of this nickel have been sold for as much as $350,750, thanks to its unique minting flaw and historical significance.
1937-D Three-Legged Nickel: A Quirky Error
The 1937-D Buffalo Nickel is known for its distinctive error—one of its legs is missing due to excessive die polishing. This three-legged design has made the coin a favorite among collectors, with examples in top condition selling for as much as $99,875. Its odd, yet captivating imperfection adds to the charm of this rare coin.
1968 No-S Proof Dime: A Rare Minting Mistake
The 1968 No-S Proof Roosevelt Dime is another rare coin distinguished by its missing “S” mintmark. Fewer than 20 examples are known to exist, making it an exceptionally rare find. Depending on its condition, this coin has sold for over $20,000, further proving its value among numismatics enthusiasts.
1942/1 Mercury Dime: A Fascinating Overdate Error
The 1942/1 Mercury Dime is notable for its overdate error, where elements from both 1941 and 1942 are visible on the coin. This overdate is highly prized by collectors, with well-preserved specimens selling for over $100,000. The combination of two years’ worth of design features makes it one of the most sought-after dimes in the history of U.S. coinage.
Overview of These Remarkable Coins
| Coin | Description | Auction Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1975 No-S Proof Dime | Missing “S” mint mark; only two known | $506,250 |
| 1894-S Barber Dime | Only nine surviving; extremely rare | Over $1.9 million |
| 1913 Liberty Nickel | Unauthorized minting; five specimens | Up to $3.7 million |
| 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel | Overdate error; two overlapping dates | $350,750 |
| 1937-D Three-Legged Nickel | Missing front leg due to die polishing | $99,875 |
| 1968 No-S Proof Dime | Missing “S” mint mark; fewer than 20 known | Over $20,000 |
| 1942/1 Mercury Dime | Overdate error combining two years’ elements | Over $100,000 |
These rare dimes and nickels are not just coins—they are priceless pieces of history. Their rarity, the fascinating stories behind their minting, and their unique errors contribute to their immense value. For collectors, these coins represent both a challenge and an opportunity to own a true piece of numismatic history.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes the 1975 No-S Proof Dime so valuable?
The 1975 No-S Proof Dime is extremely valuable due to its rarity—only two known examples exist—and the missing “S” mintmark, which typically denotes production at the San Francisco Mint.
How can I identify a 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel?
To identify the 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel, look for the buffalo’s missing front leg on the reverse side of the coin. If the leg is absent, you may have discovered this rare variation.
Are coins with minting errors always valuable?
Not all minting errors result in valuable coins, but significant errors, such as overdates or missing mint marks, are often highly sought after and can drive up the coin’s price due to their scarcity and uniqueness.