The 1968 No S Dime stands as one of the most captivating errors in the history of U.S. coinage. This anomaly, where a proof dime was struck without the usual “S” mintmark from the San Francisco Mint, has become a highly coveted piece among coin collectors. With its intriguing history and scarcity, some of these coins have been sold for upwards of $40,800, making them a prized possession for those who are fortunate enough to own one.
Understanding Mintmarks and Their Importance
Mintmarks are small letters or symbols on coins that signify the location where they were minted. In 1968, the U.S. Mint reintroduced mintmarks after a three-year period (1965-1967) when they were omitted to curb coin hoarding during a national coin shortage.
For proof coins struck at the San Francisco Mint, the “S” mintmark was used to distinguish them. However, due to a rare minting mistake, a small number of 1968 proof dimes were released without this “S,” creating the famous 1968 No S Dime.
The Rarity and Value of the 1968 No S Dime
What makes the 1968 No S Dime especially valuable is its extreme rarity. Experts believe there are only around two dozen known examples in existence, making it an incredibly scarce find. This rarity, combined with its unique backstory, has driven up the coin’s market value. Depending on its condition and demand, some of these dimes have sold for as much as $40,800 at auction.
How to Identify a 1968 No S Dime
If you think you may have a 1968 No S Dime, it’s important to know how to identify one. Here are the key features to look for:
- Proof Finish: The 1968 No S Dime, like all proof coins, has a shiny, mirror-like surface resulting from multiple strikes on specially prepared planchets.
- Absence of the “S” Mintmark: Unlike other 1968 proof dimes from the San Francisco Mint, this error coin lacks the “S” mintmark beneath the date.
- Sharp, Detailed Design: The design of these dimes is crisp and finely detailed, characteristic of proof coins.
Remember, regular 1968 dimes minted in Philadelphia do not have a mintmark but are not proof coins and do not carry the same value as the No S variety.
Auction Prices for the 1968 No S Dime
The 1968 No S Dime has become a notable item at auctions over the years. In 1997, a Proof-68 example fetched around $6,000. By 2005, that same grade sold for an impressive $32,200. As more of these coins have been found, their value has slightly adjusted, but the typical range for a 1968 No S Dime today is between $15,000 and $25,000, depending on the coin’s grade and condition.
Comparing the 1968 No S Dime with Other Rare No S Proof Coins
The 1968 No S Dime is part of a small but fascinating group of U.S. coins minted without their expected mintmarks. Here’s how it compares to other well-known No S proof coins in terms of rarity and value:
| Coin Type | Year | Estimated Quantity | Approximate Value Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| No S Roosevelt Dime | 1968 | ~24 | $15,000 – $25,000 |
| No S Roosevelt Dime | 1970 | Limited | Significant |
| No S Jefferson Nickel | 1971 | ~200 | Substantial |
| No S Roosevelt Dime | 1975 | 2 | Extremely High |
| No S Eisenhower Dollar | 1976 | Unique | Exceptionally High |
| No S Lincoln Cent | 1990 | Limited | Considerable |
How to Authenticate a 1968 No S Dime
If you think you have a 1968 No S Dime, here are steps you should take to confirm its authenticity:
- Examine the Coin’s Finish: Look for the shiny, mirror-like surface typical of proof coins.
- Verify the Absence of the Mintmark: Ensure there is no “S” mintmark beneath the date on the obverse side.
- Consult a Professional: To be certain, take the coin to a reputable grading service, such as the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC), for authentication and valuation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the 1968 No S Dime valuable?
Its value lies in its rarity, with only a few dozen examples believed to exist. This makes it a highly sought-after collector’s item.
How can I tell if my 1968 dime is a No S proof?
Look for a mirror-like finish and ensure that the “S” mintmark is missing. Regular 1968 dimes without a mintmark are from the Philadelphia Mint, but they are not proof coins and are not worth the same as the No S variety.
What should I do if I find a 1968 No S Dime?
If you believe you have one of these rare coins, it is essential to have it authenticated by a professional grading service to determine its authenticity and value.
Conclusion
The 1968 No S Dime is more than just a rare coin—it’s a piece of U.S. minting history. Its rarity, coupled with the fascinating story behind its creation, has made it one of the most desirable and valuable coins in the world of numismatics. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just beginning to explore the world of coins, understanding and identifying the 1968 No S Dime could lead you to a highly valuable discovery.