1979 Roosevelt Dime Value Guide: P, D, S Mint Marks
1979 Roosevelt Dimes range from face value ($0.10) to $8,000+ for rare errors. Business strikes with Full Bands designation and Type 2 proofs command premiums.
The 1979 Roosevelt Dime is worth $0.10 to $8,000+ depending on condition, strike quality, and error status.
- Circulated: Face value only ($0.10) – extremely common
- Uncirculated (MS-65): $7.50 – $10.00
- High grades: $40 – $110 (MS-67/MS-68)
- Full Bands designation: $100 – $2,650+ (conditional rarity)
- 1979-S Proof Type 2: $30 – $50 (PR-70 DCAM)
- Major errors: $7,000 – $8,000 (wrong planchet)
With over 706 million business strikes produced, value lies in pristine condition, sharp strikes, or dramatic mint errors.
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1979 Roosevelt Dime: Overview and Value
Standard 1979 Roosevelt Dime design by John R. Sinnock
The 1979 Roosevelt Dime represents a high-mintage modern issue from three U.S. Mint facilities. Most circulated examples hold only face value due to their extreme abundance—over 706 million business strikes combined. However, specific high-grade specimens with exceptional strike quality (Full Bands designation) and rare proof varieties (Type 2 "Clear S") command significant premiums. The series also includes valuable major mint errors.
This guide covers authentication, grading standards, mint mark varieties, conditional rarities, error coins, and current market values based on November 2025 price data from PCGS, NGC, and documented auction results.
How to Identify Your 1979 Roosevelt Dime
All 1979 dimes share the same design by John R. Sinnock. The obverse features a left-facing bust of President Franklin D. Roosevelt with "LIBERTY" to the left, "IN GOD WE TRUST" under the chin, and the date "1979" at the lower right. Sinnock's initials "JS" appear at the truncation of Roosevelt's neck.
The reverse displays a central torch (representing liberty) flanked by an olive branch (peace) on the left and an oak branch (strength) on the right, with the motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM" inscribed horizontally across the field.
Mint mark appears directly above the '9' in 1979
The mint mark location is on the obverse, directly above the "9" in the date "1979":
- No mint mark: Philadelphia Mint (315,440,000 minted)
- "D" mint mark: Denver Mint (390,921,184 minted)
- "S" mint mark: San Francisco Mint, proof strikes only (3,677,175 minted)
All 1979 dimes are clad composition—an outer layer of 75% Copper and 25% Nickel bonded to a pure Copper core. These coins contain no silver and have negligible melt value (approximately 2.55 cents based on November 2025 metal prices). The coin weighs 2.27 grams with a diameter of 17.90 mm and features a reeded edge.
1979 Roosevelt Dime Price Guide by Mint and Grade
Market values for 1979 dimes depend entirely on preservation state (grade), strike quality, and—for proofs—mint mark type. Circulated examples are worth face value only. The following prices reflect November 2025 market data from NGC, PCGS, and verified auction results.
1979 (P) Philadelphia Business Strike
With a mintage exceeding 315 million, the 1979 Philadelphia dime is extremely common. Circulated examples trade at face value in commercial transactions. Value emerges only in high mint state grades.
| Grade | Retail Value |
|---|---|
| AU-50 | $0.35 |
| MS-63 | $4.00 |
| MS-64 | $6.00 |
| MS-65 | $10.00 |
| MS-66 | $15.00 |
| MS-67 | $31.00 – $85.00 |
(Source: NGC Price Guide, November 2025)
1979-P Full Bands (FB) Variety: PCGS recognizes a Full Bands designation for sharply struck specimens showing complete separation on the reverse torch bands. However, no reliable pricing from major grading services or recent auction records is available, suggesting this variety either lacks demand or is so rare it seldom appears on the market.
1979-D Denver Business Strike
The Denver issue, with nearly 391 million struck, follows a similar value pattern to Philadelphia coins but is slightly more available in gem grades.
| Grade | Retail Value |
|---|---|
| AU-50 | $0.35 |
| MS-63 | $2.50 |
| MS-64 | $4.50 |
| MS-65 | $7.50 |
| MS-66 | $15.00 |
| MS-67 | $40.00 |
| MS-68 | $110.00 |
(Source: NGC Price Guide, November 2025)
1979-D Full Bands (FB) — Key Conditional Rarity
This is the primary collectible focus for 1979 business strikes. The vast mintage was generally weakly struck, making fully-banded examples scarce and highly sought after. However, PCGS Price Guide values appear significantly outdated compared to recent auction results.
| Grade | PCGS Guide Price | Recent Auction Result |
|---|---|---|
| MS-63 FB | $12.00 | — |
| MS-64 FB | $20.00 | — |
| MS-65 FB | $100.00 | — |
| MS-66 FB | $525.00 | $384 (Heritage, Oct 2020) |
| MS-67 FB | $2,650.00 | $306 (Heritage, Dec 2014) |
(Source: PCGS Price Guide & Auction Data, November 2025)
⚠️ Pricing Discrepancy
The 800%+ divergence between the PCGS guide price ($2,650) and the most recent auction result ($306) for MS-67 FB suggests the guide reflects obsolete data. Current market value appears to be in the $300-$400 range for this grade.
1979-S San Francisco Proof Strikes
The 1979-S proof dime was struck exclusively for collector sets with a total mintage of 3,677,175. These coins feature mirror-like fields and frosted devices. A mid-year transition in mint mark punches creates two distinct varieties:
Type 1 ("Filled S"): The earlier punch produces a blob-like, poorly defined "S" that appears filled in. This variety is very common, even in perfect PR-70 DCAM grade.
| Grade | Base Proof | Cameo (CAM) | Deep Cameo (DCAM) |
|---|---|---|---|
| PR-68 | $7.00 | $9.00 – $12.00 | $10.00 – $20.00 |
| PR-69 | $10.00 | $12.00 – $16.00 | $15.00 – $20.00 |
| PR-70 | $15.00 | $20.00 – $25.00 | $15.00 – $25.00 |
(Source: PCGS/NGC Price Guides, November 2025)
Type 2 ("Clear S"): The improved punch creates a sharp, distinct, hollow "S" with a clear flat top. This variety is slightly scarcer than Type 1 (population reports: ~9,735 Type 2 vs ~12,258 Type 1 certified across PCGS and NGC). Value concentrates almost entirely in the perfect PR-70 DCAM grade.
| Grade | Base Proof | Cameo (CAM) | Deep Cameo (DCAM) |
|---|---|---|---|
| PR-68 | $7.00 | $10.00 – $15.00 | $12.00 – $20.00 |
| PR-69 | $10.00 | $15.00 – $18.00 | $15.00 – $20.00 |
| PR-70 | $15.00 | $20.00 – $30.00 | $30.00 – $50.00 |
(Source: PCGS Price Guide, auction data, November 2025)
ℹ️ Historical Price Correction
The 1979-S Type 2 PR-70 DCAM experienced a market bubble in the early 2000s, with auction records showing sales of $300-$426. The market has since corrected to current levels of $30-$50. The NGC Price Guide still lists an outdated value of $100.00, while the PCGS guide reflects the accurate current market at $32.00.
Grading Your 1979 Roosevelt Dime
Understanding grade is essential for determining a 1979 dime's value. The Sheldon Scale (1-70) measures a coin's state of preservation, with higher numbers indicating better condition. For modern clad dimes, focus concentrates on Mint State (MS-60 through MS-70) and Proof (PR-60 through PR-70) grades.
Grade progression from MS-63 to MS-67 showing increasing luster quality
MS-63 (Choice Uncirculated): Light contact marks visible under magnification. Luster may be slightly impaired. Strike is adequate. This represents the minimum grade where numismatic value begins for common-date Roosevelt dimes.
MS-65 (Gem Uncirculated): Few small contact marks, none in prime focal areas. Strong luster with minimal impairment. Well-struck design elements. This grade offers good value for type collectors.
MS-67 (Superb Gem): Virtually mark-free surfaces with only the most minute imperfections visible under magnification. Exceptional luster. Full, sharp strike. This grade commands significant premiums, especially for Full Bands specimens.
MS-68 and higher: Near-perfect to perfect surfaces. These coins are extremely scarce for 1979 business strikes and represent condition census specimens.
Full Bands designation shows complete horizontal band separation on reverse torch
For business strikes, the Full Bands (FB) or Full Torch (FT) designation is critical. This certification indicates exceptional strike quality:
- PCGS "Full Bands" (FB): Requires full separation of the upper and lower horizontal bands of the torch with no significant cuts or marks across these bands.
- NGC "Full Torch" (FT): Requires both pairs of horizontal bands to show full separation AND the vertical lines of the torch must be defined. The NGC standard is arguably stricter.
A coin may qualify for FB but not FT, or vice versa, depending on where a small mark or weakness appears. The vast majority of 1979 business strikes were weakly struck, making FB/FT examples significant conditional rarities that can command 10-20x premiums over standard strikes.
For proof strikes, grading emphasizes surface quality and contrast:
PR-69 (Near-Perfect Proof): Virtually flawless surfaces with only the most minute imperfections. Full mirror-like fields and frosted devices. This grade represents the typical "top" grade for most proof coins.
PR-70 (Perfect Proof): Absolute perfection under 5x magnification. No visible imperfections of any kind. This grade is achievable for modern proofs but still represents a small percentage of submissions.
Deep Cameo (DCAM) shows stronger frosted devices and mirrored fields than standard Cameo
Proof designations add value:
- Cameo (CAM): Light to moderate frosting on devices with mirror-like fields. Modest premium over base proof.
- Deep Cameo (DCAM): Heavy, complete frosting on devices with deeply mirrored fields. Strong visual contrast. Significant premium, especially in PR-70.
Authentication and Problem Coins
The 1979 Roosevelt Dime is not a target for counterfeiting due to its low individual value. The primary authentication concerns involve alterations where common coins are modified to resemble rarer varieties. Be alert for added mint marks—a "D" or "S" may be glued onto a Philadelphia coin. Under magnification, added mint marks show inconsistent depth, tool marks, or adhesive residue. Similarly, a Type 1 "Filled S" proof may be carved out with a tool to resemble the more valuable Type 2 "Clear S." Such alterations leave non-Mint-made tool marks and an incorrect shape that differs from genuine Type 2 specimens.
The most critical authentication issue is identifying problem coins—those that have been cleaned, damaged, or otherwise impaired. It is a cardinal rule of numismatics not to clean coins. Cleaning destroys the coin's original surface and its numismatic value. A cleaned coin is a "problem coin" and cannot be assigned a standard numerical grade by PCGS or NGC. All values in this guide are for problem-free coins.
Key warning signs of cleaned or damaged clad coins include hairlines (fine, parallel scratches, often in a circular motion from being wiped with a cloth), unnatural luster (a "dipped" or "stripped" appearance where the coin is shiny but the luster is flat and "dead"), and residue (caked-in polish or grime at the edges of design elements). If you suspect a coin has been cleaned or damaged, it should only be purchased at a significant discount from problem-free values, and professional grading services will typically decline to certify such coins or will assign a "Details" grade noting the impairment.
For high-value specimens—particularly 1979-D Full Bands coins, 1979-S Type 2 proofs in PR-70 DCAM, or any major mint error—certification by PCGS or NGC is essential before purchase. Third-party grading provides authentication, grade verification, and encapsulation that protects the coin and facilitates resale. For common circulated coins or low-grade mint state examples worth under $20, certification costs exceed the coin's value and are not economically justified.
Preserving Your 1979 Roosevelt Dime
Proper storage is critical for maintaining numismatic value. Handle coins only by their reeded edges, never touching the obverse or reverse surfaces. Use soft, lint-free cotton gloves to prevent oils from your skin from damaging the coin's surface. For uncirculated and proof coins, hard plastic capsules provide ideal protection. For circulated coins, acid-free cardboard 2x2 holders are acceptable.
Never use soft, flexible plastic flips or holders that contain PVC (polyvinyl chloride). Over time, PVC breaks down and leaches onto the coin, leaving a sticky, damaging "green slime" that permanently ruins the surface. Only use inert, archival-quality materials specifically designed for coin storage. Store coins in a cool, dry, dark place with stable temperature and humidity (ideal conditions: 18-23°C and 45-55% relative humidity). Avoid attics, basements, and storage near heat sources. Do not talk directly over coins, as micro-droplets of saliva can cause spots.
For proof coins in their original U.S. Mint packaging, the sealed environment typically provides adequate short-term protection. However, long-term storage requires re-housing in proper archival holders. If you notice toning or spotting developing on a proof coin, do not attempt to clean it—consult a professional conservation service. For certified coins in PCGS or NGC slabs, the encapsulation provides excellent protection as long as the holder remains intact. Store slabs upright or flat, never on edge where stress could crack the holder.
Die Varieties and Mint Mark Types
While many years in the Roosevelt dime series feature collectible die varieties such as doubled dies (DDO/DDR) or repunched mint marks (RPM), a comprehensive review of authoritative variety databases including NGC VarietyPlus and PCGS CoinFacts shows no major, widely-recognized DDO, DDR, or RPM varieties for 1979 business strike dimes. Minor listings may appear on specialist websites or in online marketplaces, but these are not recognized for attribution by top-tier grading services and do not carry established market premiums. Many such claims represent misidentifications of worthless machine doubling (strike doubling) rather than true hub doubling (die varieties).
Type 1 'Filled S' (left) vs Type 2 'Clear S' (right) mint mark varieties
The significant variety for 1979 dimes is the proof mint mark type:
1979-S Type 1 vs Type 2 Proof Varieties
In mid-1979, the San Francisco Mint transitioned from an older mint mark punch (Type 1) to an improved design (Type 2). This change affected all denominations in the 1979 proof set.
Type 1 "Filled S": The earlier punch, used since 1974, produces a blob-like "S" that is poorly defined and appears filled in. The serifs are thick and the interior space is minimal or closed.
Type 2 "Clear S": The new punch creates a sharp, distinct "S" that is hollow and has a clear, flat top. The serifs are well-defined and the interior space is open and properly proportioned.
Distinguishing between the two types requires magnification but is straightforward with a loupe or microscope. Combined population reports from PCGS and NGC show approximately 12,258 Type 1 dimes certified versus 9,735 Type 2 dimes, confirming the Type 2 is slightly scarcer. However, the value premium concentrates almost entirely in the perfect PR-70 Deep Cameo grade. In PR-69 DCAM, both types trade at similar levels ($15-$20).
1979 Roosevelt Dime Mint Errors
While standard 1979 dimes are common, major mint errors are rare and valuable. Error values depend on the type and severity of the error, whether the date and mint mark remain visible, and the coin's overall condition. The following values are based on auction results for certified, problem-free error coins.
Off-center strike showing 40-60% displacement with visible blank planchet area
Off-Center Strikes
An off-center strike occurs when the coin is not properly centered during the strike, leaving a portion of the planchet blank. Value depends heavily on the percentage off-center and whether the date and mint mark are visible:
- 10-20% off-center: $20 – $40
- 40-60% off-center (date visible): $50 – $150. Auction records show a 1979 5% off-center in AU grade sold for $65, and an undated 55% off-center MS-64 dime sold for $145.
Broadstrikes
A broadstrike occurs when the coin is struck without the retaining collar, causing the metal to "spread." The resulting coin is wider than normal and has a plain, un-reeded edge. Value range: $30 – $75.
Clipped planchet error showing curved or straight clip from blank punching process
Clipped Planchets
A clipped planchet shows a "bite" missing from the coin, resulting from an error in punching the blanks from metal strips. Value depends on clip size:
- Minor clip (5-10%): $10 – $30
- Major clip (20-30%): $50 – $125. Supporting data includes a 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar with a 33% clip that sold for $129.25.
Missing Clad Layer
This error occurs when one side of the coin is missing the 75% Copper / 25% Nickel outer layer, exposing the pure copper core. The affected side appears reddish-brown and the coin will be slightly underweight. Value range: $20 – $75.
Wrong Planchet Strikes
This is one of the most dramatic and valuable error types, where a dime die strikes a planchet intended for a different denomination. A 1979 Roosevelt Dime struck on a 1-cent (penny) planchet is a significant rarity. While no specific auction record for this exact combination is cited in the source material, comparable wrong planchet errors provide valuation guidance:
- 1999-D Dime on Cent Planchet (MS-64 PCGS): $7,500
- 1979-S Susan B. Anthony Dollar on Cent Planchet (MS-64 PCGS): $7,475
- 1959-D Half Dollar on Cent Planchet (AU-58 ANACS): $7,590
Based on this consistent market data, a certified 1979 Roosevelt Dime struck on a 1-cent planchet would command an estimated value of $7,000 – $8,000.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is my 1979 Roosevelt Dime worth?
Circulated 1979 dimes are worth face value only ($0.10) due to their extreme abundance. Uncirculated examples in MS-65 grade are worth $7.50-$10.00. High-grade specimens (MS-67+) or those with Full Bands designation can be worth $40-$2,650+. The 1979-S Type 2 proof in PR-70 Deep Cameo trades at $30-$50. Major errors can reach $7,000-$8,000.
How do I identify the mint mark on a 1979 dime?
Look on the obverse (front) of the coin, directly above the "9" in the date "1979." No mint mark indicates Philadelphia, "D" indicates Denver, and "S" indicates San Francisco (proof strikes only). Use a magnifying glass or loupe for clear identification.
Does the 1979 Roosevelt Dime contain silver?
No. All 1979 dimes are clad composition with an outer layer of 75% Copper and 25% Nickel bonded to a pure Copper core. They contain no silver. The melt value is approximately 2.55 cents based on November 2025 metal prices, making intrinsic metal value negligible.
What is the difference between 1979-S Type 1 and Type 2 proofs?
The difference is in the mint mark style. Type 1 has a blob-like, poorly defined "S" that appears filled in (used earlier in 1979). Type 2 has a sharp, distinct, hollow "S" with a clear flat top (introduced mid-year). Type 2 is slightly scarcer and commands a premium in perfect PR-70 Deep Cameo grade ($30-$50 vs $15-$25 for Type 1).
What are Full Bands on a Roosevelt Dime?
Full Bands (FB) is a designation awarded by PCGS to dimes showing complete separation of the horizontal bands on the reverse torch with no significant marks across them. NGC uses "Full Torch" (FT) which additionally requires visible vertical torch lines. This designation indicates exceptional strike quality and commands significant premiums—a 1979-D FB can be worth 10-20 times more than a standard strike of the same grade.
Should I get my 1979 dime professionally graded?
Grading is justified only for coins worth significantly more than grading fees (typically $20-$50 per coin). Consider professional grading for: 1979-D coins you believe are Full Bands, 1979-S Type 2 proofs in apparent PR-69+ condition, high-grade business strikes (MS-67+), or any major mint errors. For common circulated coins or low-grade mint state examples, grading costs exceed the coin's value.
Are there any valuable doubled die varieties for 1979 dimes?
No. Major variety databases from NGC and PCGS show no widely-recognized doubled die obverse (DDO), doubled die reverse (DDR), or repunched mint mark (RPM) varieties for 1979 business strikes. Some minor listings appear on secondary markets, but these are not recognized by top-tier grading services and typically represent worthless machine doubling rather than collectible die varieties.
How should I store my 1979 Roosevelt Dimes?
Use hard plastic capsules for uncirculated and proof coins, or acid-free cardboard 2x2 holders for circulated examples. Never use soft PVC-containing flips, which leach damaging chemicals onto coins. Store in a cool, dry, dark place with stable temperature (18-23°C) and humidity (45-55%). Handle only by edges, use gloves, and never clean coins as this destroys numismatic value.
What makes a 1979-D dime more valuable than a 1979 Philadelphia dime?
Neither mint's business strikes carry significant premiums in standard grades—both are extremely common. However, the 1979-D is the primary focus for Full Bands collectors because weakly struck examples are abundant, making sharply struck FB specimens notable conditional rarities. The 1979-P Full Bands designation exists but has no established market, suggesting extreme rarity or lack of collector interest.
Can I find valuable 1979 dimes in pocket change?
Extremely unlikely. With 706+ million business strikes produced, worn circulated examples are worth only face value. The valuable items are high-grade uncirculated coins (which never entered circulation), Full Bands specimens (requiring expert identification), or major mint errors (extraordinarily rare). For pocket change hunting, focus on pre-1965 silver dimes or obvious major errors, not 1979 Roosevelt dimes.
Pricing Methodology and Sources
Values in this guide reflect November 2025 market data compiled from multiple authoritative sources. Base pricing for business strikes derives from the NGC Price Guide and PCGS CoinFacts. Proof values reflect data from NGC, PCGS, and CoinWeek analysis. Auction results are from PCGS Auction Prices Realized and Heritage Auctions archives. Mintage data comes from official U.S. Mint records.
The coin market is subject to fluctuations based on precious metal prices, collector demand, and economic conditions. Prices represent retail values for problem-free, accurately graded coins. Dealer buy prices are typically 30-50% below retail. Auction results for unique specimens (exceptional toning, top population grades) may exceed typical retail ranges. Certified coins in PCGS or NGC holders typically command premiums over raw (uncertified) coins of the same grade due to authentication and grading guarantees.
