1973 Dime Value Guide: Worth $0.15 to $7,050+
1973 Roosevelt Dime values range from face value to $7,050+ for perfect PR-70 DCAM proofs. Learn grading, Full Bands designation, error values, and authentication.
The 1973 Roosevelt Dime is worth $0.15 to $7,050+ depending on mint mark, grade, and strike designation.
- Circulated (1973-P, 1973-D): Face value to $0.35
- Uncirculated base strike:$1 – $80
- Uncirculated Full Bands:$7 – $525
- Proof (1973-S):$5 – $20
- Top specimen (PR-70 DCAM):$650 – $7,050+
- Major proof errors:$1,980 – $3,840
With combined mintages exceeding 770 million coins, the 1973 dime is a classic condition rarity where value concentrates in high grades with Full Bands designation for business strikes or PR-70 Deep Cameo for proofs.
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1973 Roosevelt Dime Overview
The 1973 Roosevelt Dime features John R. Sinnock's design with Roosevelt's profile and the iconic torch flanked by olive and oak branches.
The 1973 Roosevelt Dime represents the modern clad coinage era, consisting of three distinct issues: the Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D), and San Francisco proof (S). With production volumes exceeding 770 million business strikes, these coins remain abundant in circulation today. However, the 1973 dime serves as an important lesson in "condition rarity"—where overwhelming mintages mean that virtually all collectible value concentrates in the highest grades and special strike designations.
Business strikes from Philadelphia and Denver are worth face value in circulated condition, but uncirculated examples with the coveted "Full Bands" designation command significant premiums ranging from $7 to $525. The San Francisco proof issue follows a similar pattern: common grades trade for $5 to $20, while perfect PR-70 Deep Cameo specimens have achieved auction prices up to $7,050.
This comprehensive guide examines the precise grading criteria that separate common coins from valuable specimens, explores the critical Full Bands designation, documents significant mint errors including spectacular proof strike errors valued at $1,980 to $3,840, and provides authentication guidance to protect collectors from cleaned or problem coins that destroy numismatic value.
How to Identify Your 1973 Roosevelt Dime
Mint marks on 1973 Roosevelt Dimes appear on the obverse directly above the final digit '3' in the date. Philadelphia issues have no mint mark.
Design Features
The obverse features the left-facing profile of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, with inscriptions reading "LIBERTY," "IN GOD WE TRUST," and the date "1973." The designer's initials "JS" (John R. Sinnock) appear on the truncation of Roosevelt's neck, just below the profile. This design has remained unchanged since the Roosevelt dime's introduction in 1946.
The reverse displays a central torch symbolizing liberty, flanked by an olive branch on the left (representing peace) and an oak branch on the right (symbolizing strength and independence). The inscriptions read "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "E PLURIBUS UNUM," and "ONE DIME." The coin's edge features 118 reeds.
Mint Mark Identification
The 1973 dime series pre-dates the 1980 introduction of the "P" mint mark for Philadelphia dimes. Mint marks appear on the obverse, located directly above the final digit "3" in the date 1973:
- No mint mark: Philadelphia strike. A blank space appears above the date where Denver and San Francisco coins display their mint marks.
- D mint mark: Denver strike. A small "D" appears directly above the "3."
- S mint mark: San Francisco proof strike. A small "S" appears in the same location as the Denver mint mark.
Strike Type Distinction
Business strikes from Philadelphia and Denver were produced for general circulation using a single strike under high pressure. These coins exhibit standard mint luster with uniform texture across both devices (design elements) and fields (background).
The 1973-S was struck exclusively as a proof coin for collectors, produced using specially polished planchets and dies with multiple strikes. Proof coins display exceptionally sharp details, squared-off rims, and (in the case of Cameo and Deep Cameo designations) frosted devices that contrast dramatically with highly reflective, mirror-like fields. These coins were never released into circulation and were sold only in special collector sets.
1973 Roosevelt Dime Price Guide
The 1973 Roosevelt Dime market demonstrates extreme value concentration in specific grade and designation combinations. For business strikes, the overwhelming majority of surviving coins hold no numismatic premium, with the entire collectible market focused on high-grade Mint State specimens displaying the "Full Bands" strike designation. For proof strikes, common grades through PR-69 Deep Cameo trade as commodity items, while perfect PR-70 Deep Cameo specimens command exceptional prices.
⚠️ Auction Record Anomalies
Researchers should note that documented auction records of $1,020 (1973-P MS-62) and $1,200 (1973-D MS-67) are significant outliers inconsistent with established market values. These prices almost certainly represent major mint errors (such as wrong planchet strikes) that were not properly attributed on certification labels. Standard specimens in these grades are worth $1 to $70.
1973 (P) Philadelphia Business Strike
With a mintage of 315,670,000 coins, the Philadelphia strike is extremely common. Circulated examples carry no numismatic premium. The following table documents values for certified uncirculated coins without the Full Bands designation:
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| Circulated (G-AU) | $0.15 – $0.35 |
| MS-63 | $1.00 – $5.00 |
| MS-64 | $6.00 |
| MS-65 | $7.00 – $8.00 |
| MS-66 | $20.00 |
| MS-67 | $80.00 |
Source: NGC Price Guide (November 2025), APMEX (November 2025)
1973 (P) Full Bands Designation
The Full Bands (FB) designation, awarded by PCGS, represents the primary value driver for 1973 Philadelphia dimes. This designation is given to uncirculated coins displaying a sharp, complete strike, specifically identified by clear separation of both the upper and lower horizontal bands on the reverse torch. NGC uses the equivalent designation "Full Torch" (FT), which requires the same band separation plus fully defined vertical torch lines—a stricter standard.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| MS-63 FB/FT | No public pricing |
| MS-64 FB/FT | No public pricing |
| MS-65 FB/FT | $20.00 – $30.00 |
| MS-66 FB/FT | $40.00 – $60.00 |
| MS-67 FB/FT | $427.00 |
Source: PCGS CoinFacts, Heritage Auctions. The MS-67 FB auction record of $427 sold December 2014.
1973-D Denver Business Strike
The 1973-D is the most common issue of the entire series, with a mintage exceeding 455 million coins. Like its Philadelphia counterpart, it represents a pure condition rarity with circulated examples worth face value only.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| Circulated (G-AU) | $0.15 – $0.35 |
| MS-63 | $5.00 |
| MS-64 | $6.00 |
| MS-65 | $7.00 – $10.00 |
| MS-66 | $15.00 – $20.00 |
| MS-67 | $70.00 |
Source: NGC Price Guide (November 2025), APMEX (November 2025)
1973-D Full Bands Designation
The 1973-D Full Bands represents the primary collectible for Denver dimes. While scarcer than base strikes in Gem condition, these coins remain readily available to collectors through certified coin dealers.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| MS-63 FB/FT | $7.00 |
| MS-64 FB/FT | $10.00 – $12.00 |
| MS-65 FB/FT | $20.00 – $25.00 |
| MS-66 FB/FT | $65.00 |
| MS-67 FB/FT | $400.00 |
| MS-67+ FB/FT | $525.00 |
Source: PCGS Auction Prices (2014-2020). The PCGS auction record for MS-67 FB was $400 (September 2020).
Full Bands (FB) designation requires complete separation of both upper and lower horizontal bands on the torch. This sharp strike significantly increases value.
1973-S Standard Proof
The 1973-S Roosevelt Dime was produced exclusively in proof format for collectors, with 2,760,339 coins struck. Standard proof strikes may lack the heavy frosted contrast between devices and fields characteristic of Cameo and Deep Cameo designations.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| PR-67 | $5.00 – $7.50 |
| PR-68 | $13.00 – $15.00 |
| PR-69 | $17.00 |
| PR-70 | No public pricing |
Source: NGC Price Guide (October 2014), NGC Census/Auction Data (2012-2014)
1973-S Cameo Proof
Cameo designation is awarded to coins exhibiting light to moderate frosted finish on the devices (Roosevelt's portrait, the torch), contrasting with mirrored fields.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| PR-67 CAM | $5.25 |
| PR-68 CAM | $20.00 |
| PR-69 CAM | No reliable data |
| PR-70 CAM | No public pricing |
Source: NGC Price Guide (October 2014)
Business strikes (left) have uniform satin luster across devices and fields. Proof strikes (right) feature frosted devices contrasting with mirror-like fields.
1973-S Deep Cameo/Ultra Cameo Proof
Deep Cameo (DCAM) represents the premier designation for proof coins, awarded to specimens displaying strong, frosty "snow-white" finish on devices that sharply contrast with deep, liquid-like mirrored fields. Examples up to PR-69 Deep Cameo are abundant due to excellent quality control during production. Market value concentrates almost exclusively in the perfect PR-70 grade.
| Grade | Value |
|---|---|
| PR-67 DCAM | $6.00 – $10.00 |
| PR-68 DCAM | $10.00 – $15.00 |
| PR-69 DCAM | $14.00 – $20.00 |
| PR-70 DCAM | $650 – $950+ |
Source: PCGS Price Guide, Heritage Auctions (2014-2020), NGC Price Guide (2014)
The PR-70 DCAM represents the key "chase" coin for 1973-S collectors. The PCGS Price Guide values it at $950. The all-time high auction record reached $7,050(Heritage Auctions, January 2014). More recent auction results from 2017-2020 range from $646 to $940.
Cameo proofs (left) show moderate frost on devices. Deep Cameo (right) exhibits strong snow-white frost creating dramatic contrast with liquid-like mirrored fields.
Grading Your 1973 Roosevelt Dime
Accurate grading is essential for determining a 1973 Roosevelt Dime's value, as the difference between adjacent grades can represent multiples of value—particularly for coins approaching the critical Full Bands or Deep Cameo designations. The 70-point Sheldon Scale provides the standard grading framework, with Roosevelt dimes typically evaluated from Good (G-4) through Perfect Uncirculated (MS-70) for business strikes and Proof-60 through Proof-70 for San Francisco issues.
Grade comparison: circulated (left) shows moderate wear on high points, MS-65 (center) displays original luster with minor contact marks, MS-67 (right) exhibits exceptional eye appeal.
Circulated Grades (G-4 through AU-58)
For 1973 dimes, circulated grades hold minimal collector interest due to the enormous surviving population. Good (G-4) specimens show heavy wear with Roosevelt's hair details largely merged and date barely visible. Very Fine (VF-20) examples retain moderate detail in Roosevelt's hair with clear separation of major features. About Uncirculated (AU-58) coins display slight wear on the highest points of Roosevelt's cheek and hair, with most original mint luster remaining in protected areas. All circulated grades trade at or near face value.
Mint State Grades: Base Strike
Mint State grading for 1973 Roosevelt Dimes focuses on surface preservation, strike quality, and eye appeal. MS-63 (Choice Uncirculated) specimens retain full mint luster but show noticeable contact marks on prominent areas including Roosevelt's cheek and the torch. These marks are visible to the naked eye and may include several moderate abrasions.
MS-65 (Gem Uncirculated) coins display significantly fewer marks, with only minor contact marks acceptable on secondary areas. The original mint luster must be strong and unimpaired. Roosevelt's cheek should be relatively clean, with most marks concentrated in less prominent areas.
MS-67 (Superb Gem) represents exceptional preservation. At this level, coins should be virtually mark-free under magnification, with only the most minor imperfections acceptable. The luster must be exceptional, and overall eye appeal becomes a critical factor. For base strike 1973 dimes without Full Bands, this grade represents the practical ceiling for value, as specimens rarely achieve MS-68 or higher due to production characteristics.
Full Bands Designation: Critical Diagnostics
The Full Bands designation transforms a common 1973 dime into a significant numismatic item. PCGS defines Full Bands (FB) as requiring "full separation of the upper and lower horizontal bands of the torch on the reverse" with "no significant cuts or marks across the horizontal bands." This standard focuses exclusively on the horizontal torch bands.
NGC's Full Torch (FT) designation applies a stricter standard, requiring everything PCGS demands plus fully defined vertical torch lines showing complete separation. Consequently, an NGC-certified FT coin represents a technically superior strike compared to a PCGS FB coin of the same numerical grade.
When examining a coin for Full Bands qualification, focus on the two pairs of horizontal bands on the torch. The upper pair must show clear separation across their entire length, not merging at any point. The lower pair requires the same complete separation. Any weakness, even slight merging at the bands' center, disqualifies the coin. For Full Torch designation, additionally verify that the vertical torch lines show sharp, complete definition without mushiness or merging.
Proof Grades
Proof grading for 1973-S dimes uses the Proof-60 through Proof-70 scale. PR-67 specimens may show light hairlines or minor contact marks visible under magnification. PR-68 coins display minimal imperfections, typically only one or two tiny marks in non-focal areas. PR-69 represents near-perfection, with only the most minute imperfections detectable under strong magnification.
PR-70 requires absolute perfection—no marks, hairlines, or imperfections of any kind visible under 5x magnification. For 1973-S Deep Cameo proofs, this perfect grade represents the entire premium market, as PR-69 DCAM coins trade as commodity items in the $15 to $20 range.
Strike Quality vs. Surface Preservation
A critical distinction exists between strike quality and surface preservation. A coin may achieve MS-67 based on exceptional surface preservation (few marks, strong luster) but fail to qualify for Full Bands due to incomplete strike. Conversely, a coin may display perfect Full Bands strike but only achieve MS-64 due to numerous contact marks on the surfaces. The highest values accrue to coins combining exceptional strike (FB/FT) with exceptional preservation (MS-66 or MS-67).
1973 Roosevelt Dime Die Varieties
The 1973 Roosevelt Dime series is considered a "quiet" year in terms of dramatic, valuable die varieties. Unlike other years featuring major doubled dies or significant repunched mint marks, 1973 examples documented by CONECA (Combined Organizations of Numismatic Error Collectors of America) and cataloged by Variety Vista represent minor variations that command minimal premiums in the marketplace.
Major third-party grading services including PCGS and NGC do not assign separate variety attributions or premium valuations for these minor 1973 varieties. This stands in contrast to valuable doubled die varieties from other years that receive distinct catalog numbers and trade for substantial multiples of normal values.
1973 (P) Doubled Die Obverse
The Philadelphia issue features a cataloged doubled die obverse (DDO) documented by CONECA and Variety Vista. The diagnostics describe "light spread on IN GOD WE TRUST and LIBERTY." This doubling is extremely subtle and requires magnification to detect. The spreading appears as slight thickness or a shadow effect on the letters rather than clear separate images.
No reliable public pricing data exists for this variety, and no significant auction records have been documented. Any premium over base coin values remains nominal and speculative. Collectors should verify this variety through Variety Vista's diagnostic images before purchasing coins attributed as 1973-P DDO.
1973-D Repunched Mint Mark
Multiple minor repunched mint mark (RPM) varieties exist for the Denver issue, where the "D" mint mark shows evidence of being punched into the die more than once in slightly different positions. These RPMs appear as slight doubling or spreading of the mint mark under magnification.
CONECA has cataloged several 1973-D RPM varieties through Variety Vista documentation. However, like the Philadelphia doubled die, these varieties receive no distinct recognition or premium valuation from major grading services. Market value remains essentially equivalent to base strike coins of the same grade. Reference materials are available at Variety Vista's 1973-D variety page.
1973-S Doubled Die Obverse
The San Francisco proof issue includes a cataloged doubled die obverse documented by CONECA and listed on Variety Vista. No specific diagnostic details or reliable pricing information is available in primary reference sources. This variety appears to be even more minor than the Philadelphia and Denver examples, with no documented auction sales or market data. Additional information may be found at Variety Vista's 1973-S variety documentation.
💡 Collector Perspective
For collectors building 1973 Roosevelt Dime sets, pursuing these minor die varieties offers limited value potential. The primary collectible focus for 1973 should remain high-grade Full Bands business strikes and perfect PR-70 Deep Cameo proofs, which offer both stronger market demand and clearer valuation.
1973 Roosevelt Dime Mint Errors
While 1973 represents a quiet year for die varieties, it stands out as a strong year for collectible mint errors. The value of error coins depends on severity, visual appeal, error type rarity, and—critically for 1973—whether the error occurred on a business strike or the collector-only proof strike. Proof strike errors command substantial premiums due to their rarity.
Common Business Strike Errors
Several error types appear with relative frequency on 1973 business strikes, commanding modest premiums suitable for entry-level error collectors.
Off-Center Strikes occur when the planchet is improperly positioned in the striking chamber, resulting in blank planchet area visible on the finished coin. Value increases based on the percentage off-center while still retaining a full date. A 10-15% off-center strike with clear date and mint mark typically sells for $10 to $25. As the percentage increases (20-30% off-center), values rise to $25 to $50. Coins struck more than 50% off-center lose the date and carry unpredictable values.
Off-center strike error showing approximately 15% blank planchet area. Value increases with higher percentages while retaining full date.
Broadstrikes result when the retaining collar die fails to contain the planchet during striking, causing the coin to flatten and spread outward beyond its normal diameter. These errors are visually distinctive but common enough that values remain modest at $5 to $10 for typical examples.
Missing Clad Layer errors occur when one of the outer cupro-nickel layers fails to bond properly to the copper core during planchet preparation. The finished coin displays a distinct copper-red color on one side (the exposed core) while the opposite side shows normal silver-colored cladding. These errors trade consistently around $20 for 1973 examples.
Clashed Dies (minor) result when the obverse and reverse dies strike each other without a planchet between them, transferring partial design elements to the opposing die. Roosevelt's profile may appear faintly on the reverse die, or torch elements may transfer to the obverse die. Minor clashes are common and add minimal value—a 1973-D with minor die clash characteristics sells for approximately $10 to $15.
Major Proof Strike Errors
The highest values for 1973 Roosevelt Dimes concentrate in major, dramatic errors that occurred on San Francisco proof strikes. The combination of collector-only proof production with significant error types creates substantial rarity and value.
1973-S Proof Struck on Liberia 10 Cent Planchet: This represents a spectacular wrong planchet error where a proof 1973-S dime die struck a planchet intended for a 10-cent coin from Liberia. The San Francisco Mint produced coins for various foreign governments during this period, and planchet mix-ups occasionally occurred. The error is immediately identifiable by the planchet's different weight, diameter, or composition compared to standard Roosevelt dime planchets. An example graded PR-65 achieved an auction price of $1,980.
1973-S Proof Triple Struck with Clashed Dies: This compounded error combines three separate error types: (1) the dies had previously clashed without a planchet between them, (2) a planchet was then struck three separate times with shifting between strikes, creating overlapping images, and (3) all occurred during proof production using specially prepared planchets and dies. The resulting coin displays spectacular visual appeal with multiple overlapping design impressions plus evidence of the previous die clash. An example graded PR-68 Ultra Cameo (NGC) sold for $3,840.
ℹ️ Authentication Note
Major mint errors should always be authenticated by reputable third-party grading services (PCGS, NGC, ANACS) before purchase. Post-mint damage can occasionally mimic legitimate errors, and professional authentication protects buyers from costly mistakes. Error authentication also requires specific expertise beyond standard coin grading.
Authentication & Problem Coins
For any 1973 Roosevelt Dime to possess numismatic value beyond face value, it must be "problem-free"—meaning free from post-mint damage, improper cleaning, or other alterations that destroy collector appeal. Given the enormous mintages and correspondingly low values for common-grade examples, the primary authentication concern centers on higher-grade specimens, particularly those approaching Full Bands designation or proof coins in PR-69 and PR-70 grades.
Improper cleaning leaves telltale hairline scratches and deadened luster. Cleaned coins receive 'Details' grades and lose significant collector value.
Improper cleaning represents the most common problem affecting collectible 1973 dimes. Well-intentioned owners frequently clean coins using abrasive polishes, acid solutions, or simple household products, causing irreversible damage that immediately disqualifies the coin from straight numerical grading. Identifying cleaning requires careful examination under proper lighting.
Hairlines serve as the primary diagnostic for cleaning. These fine, parallel scratches appear across the coin's surface, often in circular patterns corresponding to rubbing with a cloth or tissue. Under magnification or angled lighting, cleaned coins display networks of these microscopic scratches that differ distinctly from normal handling marks. Handling marks appear random and isolated, while cleaning hairlines form consistent patterns across large surface areas.
Impaired luster provides additional evidence of cleaning. Original mint luster on uncirculated clad coins displays a characteristic "cartwheel" effect—rotating the coin under light creates flowing bands of luster across the surface. Cleaned coins lose this natural luster, appearing "deadened" or "lifeless" even if they retain surface shine. Acid-dipped coins may appear unnaturally bright or "white" but lack the organic quality of original mint luster.
Unnatural color serves as another warning sign. Clad Roosevelt dimes that have been chemically cleaned often develop dull, washed-out gray appearance or take on hazy, cloudy toning that differs from natural environmental toning. The cupro-nickel outer layers are particularly susceptible to chemical reactions that alter surface color in unnatural ways.
Third-party grading services return cleaned coins in "Details" holders with problem designations such as "AU Details - Cleaned" or "MS-64 Details - Improperly Cleaned." These holders acknowledge the coin's grade based purely on wear but note that problems prevent assignment of a standard numerical grade. Details-grade coins are avoided by serious collectors and trade at unpredictable, heavily discounted prices—often no more than face value regardless of the details grade.
For 1973 dimes valued at more than $50, professional third-party certification through PCGS, NGC, or ANACS provides essential authentication. This is particularly critical for Full Bands business strikes and proof coins graded PR-69 or higher, where the difference between genuine and problem coins represents hundreds or thousands of dollars in value. Certification fees (typically $20 to $35 per coin for standard service) represent sound investment for protecting against costly authentication mistakes.
Counterfeit 1973 Roosevelt Dimes remain relatively uncommon due to low individual coin values, but collectors should remain aware of cast counterfeits that occasionally appear in the marketplace. Genuine coins display sharp, precise design details throughout, while cast counterfeits show softness and lack of crispness from the casting process. Weight verification using a precision scale (genuine weight: 2.27 grams) provides additional authentication, as counterfeit planchets rarely match exact specifications.
Preservation & Storage
Proper storage represents essential protection for maintaining the numismatic value of collectible-grade 1973 Roosevelt Dimes. While cupro-nickel clad composition proves more stable than silver or copper, incorrect storage materials or environmental conditions can still cause irreversible damage that destroys collector value.
Handling protocol serves as the first line of preservation defense. All uncirculated and proof coins should be handled exclusively by their edges, never touching the obverse or reverse surfaces. Cotton gloves provide recommended protection, though clean hands prove adequate for brief handling if fingers never contact coin surfaces. Natural skin oils contain acids and salts that etch into metal surfaces over time, creating permanent fingerprint marks that disqualify coins from high grades.
Storage holder selection requires careful attention to materials. The primary goal centers on protecting coins from airborne contaminants, particularly those that cause corrosion or toning. Soft, flexible vinyl "flips" must be avoided completely—these contain PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), which breaks down over time and leaches green, oily plasticizers directly onto coin surfaces. PVC damage manifests as sticky green residue that etches into the metal, causing permanent damage even after professional conservation attempts.
Recommended archival-safe holders include hard plastic capsules such as Air-Tite brand holders, which seal coins between rigid plastic layers using inert materials. Two-by-two cardboard holders with Mylar (polyester) windows provide cost-effective protection for moderate-value coins, though these require storage in protective boxes to prevent crushing. The sonically-sealed holders ("slabs") used by third-party grading services offer optimal protection, combining inert plastic construction with tamper-evident sealing that guarantees authenticity.
Environmental conditions strongly influence long-term preservation. Coins should be stored in cool, dry, stable environments with controlled humidity below 50%. High humidity accelerates corrosion on cupro-nickel clad coins, potentially causing dark spotting or uneven toning that reduces grade and value. A home safe equipped with desiccant packets (silica gel) provides ideal storage for valuable specimens. Safe deposit boxes at financial institutions offer professional-grade environmental control, though accessibility becomes limited to banking hours.
Temperature stability matters as much as absolute temperature. Fluctuating temperatures cause expansion and contraction cycles that can stress holder materials and accelerate chemical reactions on coin surfaces. Storage areas should avoid locations near heating vents, windows with direct sunlight exposure, or basements subject to seasonal temperature swings. Maintaining consistent room temperature year-round provides optimal preservation conditions.
Light exposure should be minimized for all stored coins. While dramatic light damage remains uncommon on modern clad coins compared to silver issues, prolonged exposure to bright light—particularly ultraviolet light from sunlight or fluorescent fixtures—can alter surface characteristics and potentially affect cameo contrast on proof specimens. Storage in opaque boxes or cases protects against unnecessary light exposure during long-term holding.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is my 1973 Roosevelt Dime worth?
Most 1973 Roosevelt Dimes found in circulation are worth face value (10 cents). Collectible value begins with uncirculated specimens: base strike coins in MS-65 grade trade for $7 to $10, while coins displaying the critical "Full Bands" designation range from $20 to $525 depending on grade. Proof coins (1973-S) trade from $5 to $20 in common grades, with perfect PR-70 Deep Cameo specimens reaching $650 to $7,050+ at auction.
How do I identify the mint mark on a 1973 dime?
The mint mark appears on the obverse (front) of 1973 Roosevelt Dimes, located directly above the final digit "3" in the date 1973. Philadelphia coins display no mint mark (blank space). Denver issues show a small "D" mint mark. San Francisco proofs display a small "S" mint mark in the same location. Use magnification for positive identification, as mint marks measure only 1-2 millimeters.
What is the Full Bands designation and why does it matter?
Full Bands (FB) designation recognizes business strike Roosevelt Dimes with exceptionally sharp strikes, specifically displaying complete separation of both the upper and lower horizontal bands on the reverse torch. This designation transforms common coins into significant collectibles—a 1973-D in MS-65 base strike trades for $7 to $10, while the same grade with Full Bands designation commands $20 to $25. NGC uses the stricter "Full Torch" (FT) designation requiring both band separation and fully defined vertical torch lines.
Should I get my 1973 dime professionally graded?
Professional grading through PCGS, NGC, or ANACS makes economic sense for coins valued above $50 raw. This threshold applies to business strikes in MS-66 or higher with potential Full Bands designation, and proof coins in PR-69 or PR-70 grades. Certification fees typically range from $20 to $35 per coin, providing authentication, precise grade determination, and protective encapsulation that enhances marketability. Circulated coins and common uncirculated grades do not justify certification costs.
What is the difference between a 1973 business strike and 1973-S proof?
Business strikes (1973-P and 1973-D) were produced for general circulation using single strikes under standard pressure, resulting in uniform satin luster across surfaces. The 1973-S was struck exclusively as a proof coin for collectors using specially polished planchets and dies with multiple strikes, creating frosted devices (design elements) that contrast with mirror-like fields. Proof coins display squared-off rims and exceptional sharpness but were never released into circulation.
Are there any valuable errors on 1973 Roosevelt Dimes?
Common business strike errors (off-center strikes, broadstrikes, missing clad layer) trade for $5 to $50 depending on severity. The most valuable 1973 errors are major proof strike errors: a 1973-S proof struck on a Liberia 10-cent planchet sold for $1,980, and a 1973-S proof triple struck with clashed dies achieved $3,840. These spectacular proof errors combine rarity with dramatic visual appeal.
How can I tell if my 1973 dime has been cleaned?
Cleaned coins display characteristic hairline scratches visible under magnification or angled lighting—fine, parallel lines often in circular patterns from polishing. Impaired or "deadened" luster serves as another warning sign, as cleaned coins lose their original cartwheel effect. Unnaturally bright or "white" appearance, particularly on older coins, suggests acid dipping. Third-party grading services return cleaned coins in "Details" holders, acknowledging problems prevent standard numerical grades.
What is the melt value of a 1973 Roosevelt Dime?
The intrinsic metal value of a 1973 clad dime is approximately $0.03 based on late 2025 copper and nickel spot prices. The coin contains 2.08 grams copper and 0.19 grams nickel from its cupro-nickel clad composition (75% copper, 25% nickel outer layers bonded to pure copper core). This melt value remains well below the 10-cent face value, meaning all 1973 dime value derives from numismatic demand rather than intrinsic metal content.
Why do some 1973-S proofs sell for thousands while others sell for $10?
The 1973-S proof market demonstrates extreme grade sensitivity. The 2.76 million mintage combined with excellent quality control created abundance through PR-69 Deep Cameo grade, where specimens trade as commodity items for $15 to $20. Market value concentrates exclusively in the perfect PR-70 Deep Cameo grade, which requires absolute perfection under 5x magnification—no marks, hairlines, or imperfections permitted. This rarity drives PR-70 DCAM values to $650 to $7,050+.
What is the best way to store my collectible 1973 dimes?
Store coins in archival-safe holders using inert materials: hard plastic capsules (Air-Tite brand), 2×2 cardboard holders with Mylar windows, or third-party grading service slabs. Avoid PVC-containing vinyl flips that leach damaging plasticizers. Maintain storage environment at stable room temperature with humidity below 50%—use desiccant packets (silica gel) in safes or storage boxes. Handle coins only by edges using cotton gloves, and minimize light exposure by storing in opaque containers.
Price Guide Methodology
This 1973 Roosevelt Dime price guide synthesizes data from multiple authoritative numismatic sources to provide accurate, current market valuations. Primary sources include the NGC Price Guide (November 2025), PCGS Price Guide and CoinFacts database, APMEX retail pricing (November 2025), and documented auction results from Heritage Auctions spanning 2014 through 2020.
Price ranges reflect actual retail market conditions where collectors purchase coins from reputable dealers, not theoretical wholesale or dealer-to-dealer pricing. For grades and designations with limited recent auction activity, pricing represents conservative estimates based on comparable issues and relative scarcity data from population reports.
Several significant data anomalies required careful evaluation. Documented auction records of $1,020 for a 1973-P MS-62 and $1,200 for a 1973-D MS-67 represent clear outliers inconsistent with established market values by factors of 10 to 100. These prices almost certainly represent major mint errors not properly attributed on certification labels. An NGC Price Guide entry listing a 1973-S PR-69 Cameo at $1,350 conflicts dramatically with all other market data and appears to be a data entry error.
Variety attributions and diagnostics derive from Variety Vista's comprehensive Roosevelt Dime variety database and CONECA documentation. Reference materials for grading standards and designation criteria include official PCGS and NGC grading guides.
⚠️ Market Fluctuation Notice
Coin market values fluctuate based on precious metal spot prices (for silver coins), collector demand cycles, and overall economic conditions. Prices in this guide represent market conditions as of late 2025. For current real-time pricing, consult major dealer price guides and recent auction results. Particularly volatile are modern coins in perfect grades (MS-70, PR-70), where population changes from new submissions can significantly impact values.
A note on images: To help illustrate coin diagnostics and rare varieties — especially complex errors that are difficult to describe in text alone — this guide uses AI-generated images. All written values, diagnostics, and variety attributions have been manually reviewed against the cited sources above. While our editorial team works to ensure every image is accurate and helpful, AI-generated illustrations may occasionally misrepresent fine details. If you spot any discrepancy between an image and its written description, please contact us or leave a comment below — we review all feedback and correct errors promptly. Numismatic knowledge is a community effort, and your input helps us build a more accurate resource for everyone.
