1968 Dime Value Guide (Roosevelt) | No S Proof Worth $48,875
1968 Roosevelt Dimes range from face value to $48,875. Business strikes: $0.10-$1,250. 1968-S proofs: $3-$1,000. Rare 1968 No S Proof: $12,500-$48,875. Full price guide.
The 1968 Roosevelt Dime is worth $0.10 (face value) to $48,875.
- Circulated business strikes: Face value only
- Uncirculated (MS-65): $5 – $8
- High-grade Full Bands (MS-68 FB): $750 – $1,250
- Standard proofs (PR-65): $3 – $5
- Top cameo proofs (PR-69 DCAM): $70 – $120+
- 1968 No S Proof (major rarity): $12,500 – $48,875
With nearly 1 billion business strikes produced, value exists only in high uncirculated grades with sharp strikes (Full Bands designation). The ultra-rare No S Proof, with just 12-14 known examples, is one of modern numismatics' most valuable errors.
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1968 Roosevelt Dime: Overview and Value Summary
The 1968 Roosevelt Dime features FDR's profile on the obverse and a torch flanked by olive and oak branches on the reverse.
The 1968 Roosevelt Dime presents one of modern numismatics' most striking paradoxes. With a combined mintage approaching one billion coins across Philadelphia and Denver mints, the business strikes are among the most common coins of the 20th century—worth face value in circulated condition. Yet this same year produced the 1968 No S Proof, an error with only 12-14 known examples, valued at nearly $50,000.
For collectors, the vast majority of 1968 dimes hold value only as extreme condition rarities. Business strikes derive worth exclusively from high uncirculated grades (MS-67+) combined with the coveted "Full Bands" (FB) or "Full Torch" (FT) designation, which denotes an exceptionally sharp strike on the reverse torch. Standard proofs from San Francisco, with a mintage exceeding 3 million, are common. Premium values require Cameo (CAM) or Deep Cameo (DCAM) contrast designations.
This guide covers identification, market values across all grades and strike types, die varieties including the famous No S error, mint errors, authentication techniques, and practical grading diagnostics. Whether you're examining pocket change or considering a five-figure proof rarity, you'll find comprehensive, source-cited information here.
How to Identify and Authenticate 1968 Roosevelt Dimes
Mint mark location on 1968 Roosevelt Dimes: directly above the '8' in the date on the obverse.
All 1968 Roosevelt Dimes share designer John R. Sinnock's standard specifications established by the Coinage Act of 1965. The coins measure 17.90 mm in diameter, weigh 2.27 grams, and feature a reeded edge. The composition is a clad "sandwich" structure: outer layers of 75% copper and 25% nickel bonded to a pure copper core, resulting in an overall composition of 91.67% copper and 8.33% nickel.
The obverse displays President Franklin D. Roosevelt's left-facing profile. Inscriptions include "LIBERTY" and "IN GOD WE TRUST," along with the date "1968." The designer's initials "JS" appear at the truncation of Roosevelt's neck. The reverse features a central torch symbolizing liberty, flanked by an olive branch (representing peace) on the left and an oak branch (representing strength) on the right. Inscriptions read "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "E PLURIBUS UNUM," and "ONE DIME."
Mint Mark Identification
The year 1968 holds special significance as the first year the U.S. Mint placed mint marks on the obverse of dimes. This change followed the 1965-1967 period when, by law, mint marks were removed from all U.S. coinage to discourage hoarding during the silver shortage.
On all 1968 Roosevelt Dimes, the mint mark appears on the obverse, in the field directly above the "8" in the date 1968. The three possibilities are:
- No Mint Mark: Indicates production at the Philadelphia Mint (designated 1968-P)
- "D" Mint Mark: Indicates production at the Denver Mint (1968-D)
- "S" Mint Mark: Indicates production at the San Francisco Mint (1968-S). All 1968-S dimes were proof strikes intended for collector sets
A fourth variety—the 1968 No S Proof—is missing the "S" mint mark due to a minting error. This is discussed in detail in the Die Varieties section.
The 'Reverse of 1968' features a sharper torch flame with two distinct incisions, introduced mid-year for proof production.
Design Variety: The "Reverse of 1968"
A subtle but important design change occurred mid-way through 1968. The U.S. Mint introduced a new reverse hub intended for use on 1968-S proof coins. This hub is known as the "Reverse of 1968" or "Proof Reverse." The most visible diagnostic is the torch flame:
- Original Reverse (1946-1968 business strikes): The flame has soft, gentle, and somewhat indistinct "folds"
- Reverse of 1968 (1968-S proofs): The flame is sharp, clear, and well-defined, characterized by "two sharp incisions" that give it a distinct, layered appearance
While this new reverse became standard for 1968-S proofs, major grading services (PCGS, NGC) do not widely differentiate between old and new reverses for 1968-S proofs, suggesting the transition was complete. The existence of this die hub is historically significant, as it was later used accidentally to create rare transitional varieties of 1969 and 1970 business strikes.
1968 Roosevelt Dime Price Guide: Market Values by Mint and Grade
The 1968 Roosevelt Dime market is defined by extreme condition rarity for business strikes and proof designation premiums. Unlike silver Roosevelt Dimes (1946-1964), which have intrinsic melt value, clad 1968 dimes have negligible metal content worth approximately $0.025—far below their $0.10 face value. This lack of intrinsic incentive for preservation led to mass circulation and wear, making high-grade survivors scarce despite enormous mintages.
Official PCGS and NGC price guides do not list retail values for most circulated grades, as these coins are considered common "commodity" items worth face value. Values synthesized here come from dealer retail lists, auction records, and grading service estimates as of late 2025.
💡 Key Value Driver
For business strikes, the Full Bands (FB) or Full Torch (FT) designation is the primary value driver. In the late 1960s, the Mint used worn hubs producing dies with "muted detail." Consequently, most dimes have weak strikes on the reverse torch. Examples with sharp detail command significant premiums—often 5-10 times the value of standard strikes in the same grade.
1968 (Philadelphia) Business Strike Values
Mintage: 424,470,400
| Grade | Standard Strike | Full Bands (FB) |
|---|---|---|
| G-4 | $0.10 | — |
| VF-20 | $0.10 | — |
| EF-40 | $0.10 | — |
| AU-50 | $0.15 – $0.35 | — |
| MS-60 | $0.50 – $1.00 | $5 – $8 |
| MS-63 | $1.50 – $2.50 | $10 – $15 |
| MS-65 | $5 – $7 | $30 – $45 |
| MS-66 | $12 – $15 | $60 – $80 |
| MS-67 | $25 – $40 | $200 – $300 |
| MS-68 | $350 – $400 | $750 – $1,250 |
1968-D (Denver) Business Strike Values
Mintage: 480,748,280
| Grade | Standard Strike | Full Bands/Torch (FB/FT) |
|---|---|---|
| G-4 | $0.10 | — |
| VF-20 | $0.10 | — |
| EF-40 | $0.10 | — |
| AU-50 | $0.15 – $0.35 | — |
| MS-60 | $0.50 – $1.00 | $4 – $6 |
| MS-63 | $4.00 – $4.50 | $10 – $15 |
| MS-65 | $6 – $8 | $25 – $35 |
| MS-66 | $15 – $20 | $40 – $50 |
| MS-67 | $40 – $45 | $75 – $100 |
| MS-68 | $165 – $750 | $400 – $750+ |
Note: Significant price divergence exists in MS-68 grade. NGC's price guide lists $165, while PCGS auction records show $750 realizations. The FB/FT designation typically doubles or triples value at all uncirculated levels.
1968-S Proof Values
The ultra-rare 1968 No S Proof Dime, with only 12-14 known examples, valued at $12,500 to $48,875.
Mintage: 3,041,506
All 1968-S dimes are proof coins struck at San Francisco for collectors. With a mintage exceeding 3 million, standard proof examples are common. Numismatic value depends exclusively on the contrast between frosted devices (Roosevelt's bust, the torch) and mirror-like fields. The market recognizes three tiers:
- Proof (PR): Standard proof with little to no frost; common and trades as bulk items
- Cameo (CAM): Exhibits some frost on devices, providing light contrast
- Deep Cameo (DCAM) / Ultra Cameo (UCAM): Deep, brilliant white frost on devices contrasting sharply with deep, clear mirrors; most desirable and rarest designation
| Grade | Standard Proof | Cameo (CAM) | Deep Cameo (DCAM) |
|---|---|---|---|
| PR-65 | $3 – $5 | $6 – $8 | $10 – $15 |
| PR-66 | $4 – $6 | $8 – $10 | $15 – $20 |
| PR-67 | $5 – $8 | $10 – $15 | $25 – $35 |
| PR-68 | $6 – $9 | $15 – $22 | $40 – $85 |
| PR-69 | $10 – $20 | $29 – $90 | $70 – $120+ |
| PR-70 | $190 – $200 | $250 – $350 | $500 – $1,000+ |
PR-70 coins are exceptionally rare in any designation, particularly DCAM. Auction prices for PR-67 and PR-68 standard proofs can be erratic; factors like attractive toning or lot inclusion may influence price more than rarity alone.
1968 No S Proof Values (Major Error)
Estimated Population: 12-14 examples
This is one of the most valuable modern coin errors—a 1968-S Proof Dime missing its "S" mint mark. The error occurred when at least one proof obverse die was sent to the coining press before receiving its "S" punch. These coins were struck, packaged into 1968 Proof Sets, and distributed to collectors. As one of the "Big Three" modern No S proof errors (alongside the 1975 No S Dime and 1990 No S Cent), values are consistently five figures.
| Grade | PCGS Guide | NGC Guide |
|---|---|---|
| PR-65 | $12,500 | $12,500 |
| PR-66 | $13,000 | $11,500 |
| PR-67 | $20,000 | — |
| PR-68 | $22,500 | $27,000 |
| PR-68 CAM | $48,875 | — |
| PR-69 | $47,500 | — |
The PR-68 CAM example represents the auction record high. See Recent Auction Results section for detailed sale history.
Grading 1968 Roosevelt Dimes: Wear Patterns and Quality Factors
Grade comparison: G-4 shows heavy wear with barely visible date, VF-20 has moderate wear, MS-65 displays full mint luster.
Grading 1968 Roosevelt Dimes requires understanding both circulation wear and strike quality. As clad coins, these dimes lack the toning characteristics of silver issues. Surface preservation, luster retention, and—critically for business strikes—the sharpness of the torch bands are the primary grading factors.
Circulated Grades (Good through About Uncirculated)
Good-4 (G-4): Heavy wear across all surfaces. Date is barely visible but readable. Roosevelt's profile is flattened with most hair detail gone. On the reverse, the torch shows as a smooth outline with no band definition. The olive and oak branches are flat with minimal leaf detail. Edge reeding is worn but still present.
Very Fine-20 (VF-20): Moderate wear, but all major design elements are clear. On the obverse, Roosevelt's hair shows partial detail, with the ear and jawline distinct. On the reverse, the torch bands are partially visible, though worn flat in the center. Some leaf details remain visible on the branches. This is the minimum grade where design features begin to separate.
Extremely Fine-40 (EF-40): Light wear on the highest points. Roosevelt's hair shows good definition with only slight wear on the highest waves. The ear is sharply defined. On the reverse, the horizontal torch bands show separation, though the very center may still be slightly flat. Leaf veins are visible on the branches. Original mint luster may be visible in protected areas.
About Uncirculated-50 (AU-50): Only the slightest trace of wear on the absolute highest points: Roosevelt's cheekbone and the hair above the ear on the obverse, and the torch flame and upper band tips on the reverse. Most original mint luster remains, typically 50% or more. This grade represents the transition to uncirculated status.
Mint State Grades (Uncirculated)
Full Bands (FB) designation requires complete separation of both upper and lower horizontal bands on the torch.
MS-60 to MS-63: No wear, but contact marks and/or scuffs are readily visible, particularly on the obverse cheek and reverse fields. Luster may be impaired or uneven. Strike quality varies; most show weakness on the torch bands. FB designation is rare but possible at MS-63.
MS-64 to MS-65: Fewer and lighter contact marks. Luster is generally full, though may show slight impairment in the fields. Strike quality becomes more important for value. MS-65 coins with average strikes (incomplete torch bands) are relatively common; those with FB designation are significantly scarcer and command 5-10× premiums.
MS-66 to MS-67: Minimal contact marks, visible only under magnification. Full, undisturbed luster across all surfaces. Eye appeal is excellent. Strike quality is critical—the vast majority of value difference between standard and FB examples occurs at these levels. An MS-67 FB coin can be worth $200-$300, while a standard MS-67 trades for $25-$40.
MS-68 and Higher: Virtually perfect surfaces with imperceptible contact marks. Full, blazing luster. Outstanding eye appeal. At this level, strike quality (FB/FT) is nearly mandatory for certification. Population reports show single-digit populations for most 1968 dimes at MS-68, making these true condition rarities despite massive original mintages.
Proof Grades (PR-65 and Higher)
Proof coins are evaluated on surface quality, mirror depth, and contrast (Cameo vs. Deep Cameo). Unlike business strikes, proofs show no wear—all surface issues are production-related or post-strike damage.
PR-65 to PR-66: Minor hairlines or surface marks visible under light. Mirrors are clear but may show slight haze. Contrast designation (CAM/DCAM) adds significant value.
PR-67 to PR-68: Minimal hairlines, typically confined to fields or visible only under magnification. Deep, clear mirrors. DCAM designation becomes critical for premium values.
PR-69 to PR-70: Perfect or near-perfect surfaces. PR-70 represents absolute perfection—no hairlines, marks, or imperfections visible under 5× magnification. Extremely rare, particularly in DCAM. PR-70 DCAM examples command $500-$1,000+.
The Full Bands / Full Torch Designation
The Full Bands (FB) designation by PCGS or Full Torch (FT) by NGC is the single most important value factor for 1968 business strikes. The standard requires "full separation on both the upper and lower set of horizontal bands" on the reverse torch. The vertical bands of the torch handle are not evaluated.
Scarcity of this designation stems directly from the minting process. In the late 1960s, the U.S. Mint was using worn-out reverse hubs, which produced dies with "muted detail." The default strike was "mushy." To achieve FB/FT, a coin needed (1) a fresh, new die, and (2) perfectly centered press pressure. This convergence was uncommon, making FB/FT-designated coins scarce regardless of the massive mintages.
⚠️ Strike vs. Wear
When examining torch bands, it's critical to distinguish between weak strike (a production issue) and wear (post-minting damage). A weak strike shows rounded, indistinct bands but retains full luster. Wear shows flat, polished metal with luster loss. Only circulation causes wear; weak strikes are "as made" and do not affect a coin's uncirculated status, though they significantly reduce value.
1968 Roosevelt Dime Die Varieties and Premium Errors
The 1968 DDO FS-101 shows clear separated doubling on 'LIBERTY', 'IN GOD WE TRUST', and the date.
While the 1968 Roosevelt Dime business strikes are common, several die varieties and mint errors create significant value opportunities. These range from cherrypicker discoveries worth $50-$100 to major rarities commanding five-figure prices.
1968 (Philadelphia) Doubled Die Obverse FS-101
Attribution: FS-101
This is a strong and desirable doubled die variety affecting the obverse. Clear, separated doubling is evident on multiple inscriptions:
- "IN GOD WE TRUST" shows distinct doubling on all letters
- "LIBERTY" displays strong separation on the letters
- The date "1968" shows doubling visible to the naked eye
The variety is distinguishable from die deterioration doubling or "shelf doubling" by its clean, complete separation across all affected areas. Professional attribution by PCGS or NGC is highly recommended, as unauthenticated examples may sell for only $35-$45, while certified coins command substantial premiums.
Market Values:
- MS-65 (Attributed): $80 – $100
- MS-67 (Attributed): $2,250
1968-D Repunched Mint Mark FS-501 (D over S)
Attribution: FS-501 (most desirable), with several other RPMs known
The 1968-D dime is known for several repunched mint mark (RPM) varieties. The most significant is the FS-501, classified as a "D over S" variety. This error likely occurred when a die originally intended for San Francisco proof production was mistakenly repunched with a "D" and sent to Denver for business strike use.
The diagnostic feature is a visible secondary mint mark (or portion thereof) beneath the primary "D" mint mark. Under magnification, portions of an "S" can be seen, particularly the curved elements.
Market Values:
- AU (D over S): Approximately $70
- MS (Various RPMs): $50 or more, depending on strength and grade
This variety has become popular among "cherrypickers"—collectors who search through rolls and bags of unsorted coins looking for valuable varieties. The premium is modest but reliable.
1968-S Proof Doubled Die Obverse FS-101 (FS-020)
Attribution: FS-101 (also cataloged as FS-020)
This variety represents one of modern numismatics' most significant "sleeper" rarities. Similar to the Philadelphia DDO, this proof issue shows clear doubling on the obverse legends "LIBERTY" and "IN GOD WE TRUST." However, unlike the Philadelphia variety, this proof DDO is extraordinarily rare.
Archival population data indicates only two known examples of the FS-101/020 DDO in proof. This rarity level exceeds even the celebrated 1968 No S Proof (which has 12-14 known examples), yet public awareness remains limited.
ℹ️ Critical Finding
Due to its extreme rarity and lack of recent public sales, no reliable market pricing is available for the 1968-S Proof DDO FS-101. Researchers and specialists note this variety as "rare and valuable." If an authenticated example were brought to a major auction, it would almost certainly command a five-figure price, potentially rivaling or exceeding the 1968 No S Proof in value. This represents a significant research opportunity for specialists.
1968 No S Proof (Major Error)
While technically a mint error rather than a die variety, the 1968 No S Proof is covered here due to its significance.
Error Type: Missing mint mark
This error occurred when at least one proof obverse die was sent to the coining press before receiving its "S" mint mark punch. These "No S" proofs were struck, packaged into 1968 Proof Sets, and distributed to collectors, where they were discovered.
Rarity: An estimated 12 to 14 examples exist, making this one of the three most famous modern "No S" errors (alongside the 1975 No S Dime and 1990 No S Cent).
Market Value: Prices are consistently in the five-figure range. The PR-68 CAM example holds the auction record at $48,875 (Heritage Auctions, September 2006). Recent sales range from $16,800 (PR-67, February 2023) to $22,325 (PR-68, September 2016). PCGS guide values range from $12,500 (PR-65) to $47,500 (PR-69).
Authentication is critical. See the Authentication section for detailed guidance on detecting altered coins.
1968 Roosevelt Dime Mint Errors and Values
Beyond die varieties, the 1968 Roosevelt Dime series includes several types of production errors. As clad coins, certain errors are more common than on earlier silver issues, particularly those related to the bonding of the copper-nickel outer layers to the copper core.
Lamination Errors
Lamination errors are among the most common errors on clad Roosevelt Dimes. These occur when a portion of the coin's outer layer (the 75% copper, 25% nickel alloy) flakes or peels away, revealing the pure copper core underneath. The cause is impurities or bonding issues in the clad metal strip during the planchet manufacturing process.
Identification: Look for areas where the silvery outer surface has peeled away, exposing reddish-copper metal beneath. The peeling may be a small flake or a large area. In some cases, the outer layer remains partially attached, creating a "peeling" appearance.
Value Range:
- Minor flake (small area): $10 – $20
- Significant peel (large area, still attached): $75 – $80
Value depends on the size, severity, and location of the lamination. Errors affecting the date or mint mark area are generally more valuable.
Off-Center Strikes
Off-center strikes occur when the planchet (coin blank) is not properly seated in the coining press, causing the dies to strike it off-center. The result is a coin with the design partially missing and a corresponding blank, unstruck area.
Identification: The design will be shifted to one side, with a crescent-shaped blank area opposite. The degree of off-center striking is measured as a percentage (e.g., 10% off-center, 50% off-center).
Value Determinants:
- Percentage Off-Center: Minor (5-10%) strikes are common and worth $5-$15. Major (40-60%) strikes are more desirable
- Date Visibility: The full date (1968) must be visible for maximum value. An off-center coin with a missing date is worth significantly less
Value Range:
- 5-10% off-center: $5 – $15
- 40-60% off-center with full date visible: $50 – $100+
Broadstrike Errors
A broadstrike occurs when the coin is struck "out of collar." The retaining collar, which forms the reeded edge and prevents the planchet from expanding during striking, is not in place. Without this constraint, the metal flows outward under the force of the strike.
Identification: A broadstrike 1968 dime will be noticeably wider than the standard 17.90 mm diameter and correspondingly thinner. Most distinctively, the edge will be plain and smooth rather than reeded. The design elements are typically complete but may appear slightly "stretched" or flattened.
Value Range: $20 – $40
Broadstrikes are a relatively common type of error for modern coinage. Value is fairly consistent across the range, with dramatic examples (very wide expansion) commanding the upper end.
💡 Error Coin Collecting Tip
When collecting mint errors, dramatic examples with clear visual impact are always more desirable than subtle ones. A 50% off-center strike is far more valuable than a 10% off-center strike, even if the actual "error" is the same production mistake. Similarly, a large lamination peel that covers half the coin is worth far more than a small flake. Consider both rarity and visual appeal when evaluating error coins.
Authentication and Detecting Altered 1968 Dimes
Genuine No S proofs have pristine, undisturbed fields. Altered coins show tooling marks, halos, or unnatural luster where the S was removed.
The primary authentication concern for 1968 Roosevelt Dimes centers on the high-value 1968 No S Proof. With values consistently in five figures, this error is a frequent target for counterfeiters and alterers. Additionally, collectors must be able to distinguish between cleaned coins, which have no numismatic value, and original, unimpaired examples.
Detecting Altered No S Proofs: The standard forgery method is to manually remove the "S" mint mark from a common 1968-S Proof. This alteration will always leave evidence. Key diagnostics include:
Tooling Marks: Examine the field above the "8" in the date under magnification (10× minimum, 20× preferred). Look for microscopic scratches, scrapes, or "halos" surrounding where the mint mark was. These are caused by the grinding, buffing, or engraving tools used to remove the "S." Even skilled forgeries typically show disruption patterns visible under proper lighting.
Unnatural Field: The area where the mint mark was removed will often appear hazy, over-polished, or have a different luster than the surrounding undisturbed mirror field. A genuine 1968 No S Proof was struck from a die that never had a mint mark—the field is pristine, with the same original mirror surface throughout.
Mirror Depth Inconsistency: Altered coins may show a subtle "depression" or "flat spot" where the mint mark was, as material was removed. Genuine examples have a perfectly consistent field contour.
⚠️ Authentication Requirement
Due to the high value and sophistication of some forgeries, authentication by a top-tier third-party grading service (PCGS or NGC) is mandatory for any 1968 No S Proof. Do not purchase a raw (ungraded) example, regardless of the seller's claims or the price discount offered. The cost of professional authentication ($50-$150) is negligible compared to the coin's value and the risk of purchasing a worthless altered coin.
Detecting Cleaned Coins: For 1968 business strikes and standard proofs, any cleaning or damage instantly removes all numismatic value, reducing the coin to its $0.10 face value (business strikes) or minimal bullion value (proofs). Signs of cleaning include:
Hairlines: These are fine, thin, often parallel scratches on the coin's surface. They're most visible on high points (Roosevelt's cheek, jaw, and hair) and in open fields. Hairlines are caused by wiping the coin with a cloth, even a soft one. They are incuse (scratched into the surface) and cross both fields and devices. Under magnification, they appear as a network of tiny scratches that disrupt the original surface.
Unnatural Luster: A cleaned clad coin will lose its original mint luster and take on a dull, hazy, or lifeless appearance. Harsh chemical cleaning (dipping) can give the coin a "blasted" or "too-bright" look that is unnatural. The surface may appear grainy or matte rather than showing the characteristic satiny luster of an uncirculated clad coin.
Polish Residue: Waxy or chalky buildup, often white or green, may be visible in crevices around the date, letters, and design elements. This residue comes from polishing compounds or cleaning chemicals that weren't fully rinsed away.
Die Polish vs. Cleaning Hairlines: It's critical to distinguish between cleaning hairlines and die polish lines. Cleaning hairlines are incuse (scratches into the coin) and cross both fields and devices randomly. Die polish lines are raised (on the coin's surface), typically confined to fields, and run in consistent directions. They're created when the die (not the coin) is polished by the Mint and are part of the manufacturing process—not a problem. Die polish lines do not indicate a cleaned coin.
Proper Storage and Preservation of 1968 Roosevelt Dimes
Proper preservation ensures your 1968 Roosevelt Dimes retain their condition and, consequently, their value. Clad coins have different care requirements than silver issues.
Storage for Business Strikes: Circulated and low-grade uncirculated examples (MS-63 and below) may be stored in standard archival-quality 2×2 cardboard-and-mylar flips or coin albums. Ensure any holders are non-PVC—polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic outgasses chemicals that cause green "PVC damage" over time, which is irreversible.
For coins graded MS-65 or higher, or any example with the FB/FT designation, professional encapsulation ("slabbing") by PCGS or NGC is recommended. The rigid plastic holder provides maximum protection against environmental damage and handling. Additionally, the third-party grade and FB/FT designation on the holder significantly enhances marketability.
Storage for Proof Strikes: Proof coins require greater care. The mirror fields are highly susceptible to environmental damage. "Haze" is a common problem—a cloudy film that forms on mirrors, caused by the outgassing of chemicals from cheap plastic holders (particularly old PVC-based flips). This haze can permanently cloud the mirrors and destroy any Cameo or Deep Cameo premium.
High-grade 1968-S proofs, especially those with CAM or DCAM designations, should only be stored in TPG slabs or high-quality, inert acrylic capsules. Never store proofs in paper envelopes, as sulfur in the paper can cause toning. Avoid touching the surfaces—handle coins only by the edges.
Environmental Conditions: Store all coins in a stable environment: low humidity (30-40% relative humidity ideal), moderate temperature (60-70°F), and away from direct sunlight. Extreme temperature fluctuations and high humidity can cause environmental damage even to encapsulated coins over decades. A safe deposit box or home safe in a climate-controlled area is ideal.
Handling: Never clean your coins. Cleaning always reduces value, often to face value. If a coin is dirty, consult a professional conservator. For handling, always hold coins by the edges, never touching the obverse or reverse faces. Even oil from your fingers can cause spotting over time.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1968 Roosevelt Dimes
How much is my 1968 Roosevelt Dime worth?
Most 1968 Roosevelt Dimes are worth face value ($0.10) in circulated condition. Uncirculated examples begin to have premium value at MS-65 ($5-$8), with the most valuable being MS-68 Full Bands specimens ($750-$1,250). Standard 1968-S proofs trade for $3-$5 in PR-65, while Deep Cameo examples at PR-69 can reach $120+. The rare 1968 No S Proof error is worth $12,500 to $48,875.
How do I identify the mint mark on a 1968 dime?
The mint mark on 1968 Roosevelt Dimes is located on the obverse (front), in the field directly above the "8" in the date 1968. No mint mark indicates Philadelphia, "D" indicates Denver, and "S" indicates San Francisco (proofs only). The year 1968 was the first year mint marks appeared on the obverse of dimes after being omitted from 1965-1967.
What is the Full Bands (FB) designation and why does it matter?
The Full Bands (FB) designation, assigned by PCGS, or Full Torch (FT) by NGC, indicates a sharply struck coin where both the upper and lower horizontal bands on the reverse torch show complete separation. Most 1968 dimes have weak strikes due to worn dies, making FB/FT examples scarce. This designation can increase a coin's value by 5-10 times in the same grade—for example, an MS-67 standard strike is worth $25-$40, while an MS-67 FB is worth $200-$300.
Is the 1968 No S Proof Dime real, and how rare is it?
Yes, the 1968 No S Proof Dime is genuine and extremely rare. Only an estimated 12-14 examples exist. This error occurred when at least one proof die was sent to the coining press without receiving its "S" mint mark punch. These coins were packaged in 1968 Proof Sets and distributed to collectors. Values range from $12,500 to $48,875, with the PR-68 Cameo holding the auction record. Authentication by PCGS or NGC is mandatory due to frequent counterfeits created by altering regular 1968-S proofs.
Should I get my 1968 dime professionally graded?
Professional grading is recommended only for coins likely to grade MS-65 or higher, coins with the Full Bands designation, all proofs with Cameo or Deep Cameo contrast, and any suspected die varieties or errors. Grading fees typically range from $20-$50 per coin, so the coin's potential value must justify the cost. Circulated examples and low-grade uncirculated coins (MS-63 and below) without special characteristics are not worth the grading expense.
What is a clad coin, and does it have melt value?
A clad coin has a "sandwich" structure: outer layers of 75% copper and 25% nickel bonded to a pure copper core. The 1968 Roosevelt Dime contains approximately 2.08 grams of copper and 0.19 grams of nickel, giving it a melt value of approximately $0.025 (2.5 cents)—far below its $0.10 face value. Unlike pre-1965 silver dimes, which have significant intrinsic value, 1968 clad dimes have negligible metal content. All value is numismatic, based on condition and strike quality.
How can I tell if my 1968 dime has been cleaned?
Signs of cleaning include hairlines (fine scratches visible under magnification, especially on Roosevelt's cheek and in the fields), unnatural luster (dull, hazy, or overly bright "blasted" appearance), and polish residue (waxy or chalky buildup in crevices). Cleaned coins lose all numismatic value beyond face value. It's important to distinguish cleaning hairlines, which are incuse (scratched in) and random, from die polish lines, which are raised, confined to fields, and run in consistent directions—die polish lines are part of the minting process and do not indicate a problem.
What are the different 1968 Roosevelt Dime varieties worth collecting?
Key collectible varieties include: (1) 1968 No S Proof (major error, $12,500-$48,875), (2) 1968 Doubled Die Obverse FS-101 (shows doubling on legends and date, $80-$2,250 depending on grade), (3) 1968-D Repunched Mint Mark FS-501 "D over S" (cherrypicker variety, $50-$70), and (4) 1968-S Proof DDO FS-101 (extremely rare with only 2 known, no established market price). Additionally, any business strike with Full Bands designation at MS-67 or higher represents a significant premium opportunity.
Recent Auction Results for 1968 No S Proof Dimes
The 1968 No S Proof Dime consistently commands five-figure prices at major auctions. The following represents documented sales from Heritage Auctions and other major houses, demonstrating the coin's sustained high value across different grades.
| Date | Grade | Price Realized | Auction House |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 2006 | PR-68 CAM | $48,875 | Heritage Auctions |
| Jul 2008 | PR-67 | $40,250 | Heritage Auctions |
| Jan 2007 | PR-67 | $37,375 | Heritage Auctions |
| Sep 2016 | PR-68 | $22,325 | Heritage Auctions |
| Jul 2015 | PR-68 | $21,150 | Heritage Auctions |
| Dec 2013 | PR-67 | $21,150 | Heritage Auctions |
| Jan 2018 | PR-68 | $18,000 | Heritage Auctions |
| Feb 2023 | PR-67 | $16,800 | Heritage Auctions |
| Jan 2014 | PR-66 | $10,575 | Heritage Auctions |
Note: The PR-68 CAM example from September 2006 represents the highest public sale price for any 1968 No S Proof. The Cameo designation adds significant premium, as most examples lack the contrast required for this designation. Price fluctuations over time reflect both the specific coin quality (eye appeal, strike characteristics) and overall market conditions for modern rarities. The consistent five-figure valuations across 17 years of auction history demonstrate sustained collector demand for this error.
Price Guide Methodology and Sources
Values presented in this guide are synthesized from multiple authoritative sources, ensuring accuracy and market relevance. Primary sources include:
Third-Party Grading Service Price Guides: PCGS CoinFacts and NGC Coin Explorer provide retail price estimates based on their extensive auction databases and dealer networks. These guides reflect actual market transactions and are updated regularly to reflect current conditions.
Auction Records: Realized prices from Heritage Auctions, Stack's Bowers Galleries, and GreatCollections provide empirical data for high-grade and rare variety coins. Auction results represent actual market prices paid by collectors.
Dealer Retail Lists: Pricing from established numismatic dealers, including L&C Coins and documented eBay sales from reputable sellers, provides insight into retail market pricing for standard issues and varieties.
Specialist Publications: References include Coin World articles on die varieties, Stack's Bowers educational resources on error coins, and numismatic research on strike characteristics and Full Bands/Full Torch designations.
Melt Value Calculations: Spot metal prices from Markets Insider (Business Insider) as of November 2025, combined with United States Mint technical specifications for weight and composition.
ℹ️ Market Fluctuation Disclaimer
Coin values fluctuate based on precious metal prices, collector demand, and market conditions. Prices listed represent market conditions as of late 2025 and should be considered estimates. For high-value coins (particularly the 1968 No S Proof and high-grade Full Bands examples), consult current auction results and dealer quotes before buying or selling. This guide is for informational purposes and does not constitute an offer to buy or sell.
