The Rare 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime: A Collector’s Holy Grail

The Mysterious Missing Mintmark That Creates a $20,000+ Coin

Among Roosevelt dimes, the 1968 No-S proof stands as one of the most legendary and valuable modern U.S. coins. With only 10-15 confirmed specimens known to exist, this accidental rarity routinely sells for 20,000to20,000to45,000 at auction. Here’s everything you need to know about this numismatic treasure.

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Historical Background: How This Error Occurred

The San Francisco Mint’s Oversight

In 1968, the San Francisco Mint produced 3.2 million proof sets, all supposed to bear the “S” mintmark. However:

• A single die accidentally left the mintmark off during production
• Quality control failed to catch the error
• Most were discovered still in original proof sets years later

Why It’s So Rare

• Unlike regular-issue coins, proof coins are carefully inspected
• The mint typically destroys defective proofs immediately
• Only a tiny number escaped detection

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Identification Guide: How to Spot a Genuine 1968 No-S

Key Characteristics

1. Missing Mintmark: Smooth surface where “S” should be (above date)
2. Proof Surface: Mirror fields with frosted devices
3. Edge: Reeded (120 reeds exactly)
4. Weight: 2.27 grams (silver-clad composition)

Diagnostic Features

• Obverse (Front):
  • No trace of “S” mintmark above date
  • Frosted portrait of Roosevelt
  • Sharp details in hair and jawline
• Reverse (Back):
  • Frosted torch and olive branch
  • Clear separation in lettering

Grading Standards

Grade	Description	Value Range
PR65	Light hairlines	20,000−20,000−25,000
PR67	Nearly flawless	30,000−30,000−35,000
PR69	Perfect	40,000−40,000−45,000

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Authentication Process

Step-by-Step Verification

1. Magnification Check (10x+):
   • Look for any trace of removed mintmark
   • Verify proof surface quality
2. Weight & Composition Test:
   • Must be 2.27g (1968 dimes are silver-clad)
   • Edge should show copper-silver sandwich
3. Professional Certification:
   • Only PCGS/NGC-graded examples command premiums
   • Submission cost: 150+(worthitforpotential150+(worthitforpotential20k+ value)

Red Flags of Counterfeits

❌ Weak strike (genuine proofs are razor-sharp)
❌ Visible tool marks near mintmark area
❌ Wrong weight or edge reeding

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Market Analysis & Recent Sales

Auction Records

• $44,063: PCGS PR69 (Heritage, 2021)
• $35,250: NGC PR68 (Stack’s Bowers, 2019)
• $28,200: PCGS PR67 (Legend Rare Coin Auctions, 2020)

Investment Potential

• 5-Year Appreciation: 12% annually
• Population Growth: Only 1 new specimen discovered since 2015

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Where to Search for This Rarity

Best Hunting Grounds

1. Original 1968 Proof Sets:
   • Especially those purchased directly from mint
   • Look for sets with broken cases
2. Estate Sales:
   • Older collections assembled in late 1960s/early 1970s
3. Coin Dealer Inventories:
   • Some specialists hoard unsearched proof sets

Success Story

In 2017, a collector found one in a 10garagesaleproofset∗∗thatlatersoldfor∗∗10garagesaleproofset∗∗thatlatersoldfor∗∗32,000

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Selling Strategies for Maximum Value

Top Selling Platforms

1. Heritage Auctions: Best for PR67+ grades
2. PCGS CoinFacts Forum: Direct to specialist collectors
3. Major Coin Shows: Face-to-face with top dealers

Presentation Tips

• Always keep in original holder if found in proof set
• Get professional photography for listings
• Highlight population reports in descriptions

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Free Professional Evaluation

Think you might have a 1968 No-S dime? Email clear, cropped photos to:
📧 dimes@pennyverse.info
Subject: “1968 NO-S DIME CHECK”

We’ll provide:
✔ Free preliminary authentication
✔ Current market valuation
✔ Recommended next steps

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