U.S. Dime Errors & Varieties Guide (1916–2026)
Complete guide to U.S. dime errors across Mercury (1916–1945) and Roosevelt (1946–present) series. Identify 1916-D key dates, 1942/1 overdates, 1975 No S proofs, 1982 No P, 1965 silver transitionals, and more — with diagnostics and values.
U.S. dime errors range from $20 (missing clad layers) to over $500,000 for the rarest proof specimens. The denomination's 1965 silver-to-clad transition and hand-punched mintmark era create multiple high-value error vectors across two major series.
- 🏆 Top Trophy: 1975 No S Roosevelt Proof Dime — $500,000+ (only 2 known)
- 🔍 Best Findable: Roosevelt Dime Missing Clad Layer — $20–$50 depending on condition
- ⚡ First Check: Weigh it — silver dimes (pre-1965) weigh 2.50g; clad dimes weigh 2.27g. A 1965 dime at 2.50g is a jackpot transitional error.
- ⚠️ Common Trap: Dryer coins with thickened, rounded rims are routinely mistaken for broadstrikes — they are not. A broadstrike is larger in diameter; a dryer coin is smaller.
The U.S. dime spans two celebrated series — the Winged Liberty Head (Mercury) dime of 1916–1945 and the Roosevelt dime of 1946 to present — producing some of numismatics' most coveted errors. The denomination's small 17.91mm planchet allows striking anomalies to evade quality control more readily than larger coins, while the historic 1965 silver-to-clad metallurgical transition created an entire class of high-value errors that can only be confirmed with a precise digital scale. This guide covers every documented error type across both series: silver-era overdates and doubled dies, transitional wrong-planchet strikes, missing mintmark proofs, and clad-era planchet defects. For standard year-by-year values, see our Mercury Dime Value Guide and Roosevelt Dime Value Guide. Error identification begins with metallurgy — master the two weight standards below and you will already outpace the majority of collectors searching for dime errors.
How to Identify U.S. Dime Errors
Dime error triage follows a strict four-step protocol. Complete each step in sequence before moving to the next. Most coins are eliminated in step one or two, saving significant time.
Side-by-side comparison of a silver Mercury dime, silver Roosevelt dime, and clad Roosevelt dime showing edge appearance and key identification features.
Required Tools
A digital pocket scale accurate to 0.01g is the single most important tool for dime error hunting. You will also need a 10x loupe or magnifier, good raking light (a desk lamp angled at about 30 degrees works well), and a non-magnetic surface for handling.
Step 1: Era Sort — Which Dime Do You Have?
| Era | Series | Composition | Weight | Edge Appearance | Key Errors to Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Silver (1916–1945) | Mercury Dime | 90% Silver, 10% Copper | 2.50g | Solid silver, no stripe | Overdates, Micro S, key dates |
| Silver (1946–1964) | Roosevelt Dime | 90% Silver, 10% Copper | 2.50g | Solid silver, no stripe | DDR, RPMs, transitional |
| Clad (1965–Present) | Roosevelt Dime | Cu-Ni Clad over Copper Core | 2.27g | Brown copper stripe visible | No S proofs, No P, missing clad |
Step 2: Weight Check — The Rosetta Stone
Weight verification chart for U.S. dimes showing standard weights, tolerance ranges, and what anomalous readings indicate.
Place the coin on your digital scale. Compare to the table below. A deviation outside the tolerance range is a signal to investigate further — it does not automatically confirm an error, but it demands the next steps.
| Coin Type | Standard Weight | Normal Tolerance | Anomalous Reading | Possible Explanation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Silver Dime (pre-1965) | 2.50g | 2.40g–2.60g | ~2.27g | Struck on clad planchet (rare) |
| Clad Dime (1965+) | 2.27g | 2.15g–2.38g | ~2.50g | Struck on silver planchet (1965 only) |
| Clad Dime (1965+) | 2.27g | 2.15g–2.38g | ~1.85g | Missing clad layer |
| Clad Dime (1965+) | 2.27g | 2.15g–2.38g | <2.0g | Missing clad layer or acid damage |
Step 3: Edge and Surface Check
Examine the edge. A genuine silver dime displays a uniformly silver-white edge with no stripe. A clad dime shows a visible brown copper stripe at the core. A smooth, striate-free edge on a coin with normal or reduced diameter indicates dryer damage (see PMD section below). A smooth edge with a larger diameter suggests a broadstrike error.
Step 4: Magnetism and Date/Mintmark Check
Standard U.S. dimes — both silver and clad — are non-magnetic. A magnetic dime is a steel novelty, counterfeit, or, in extremely rare cases, struck on a foreign steel planchet. Once composition is confirmed, focus on the date and mintmark. Is it a 1965 (weigh for silver)? A 1982 (check for P)? A 1975 proof (check for S)? The specific year-and-mintmark combinations listed in each era section below are your primary targets.
💡 What to Do Next
Silver dimes (1916–1964): proceed to the Mercury Dime section or Silver Roosevelt section. Clad dimes (1965–present): go to the Clad Roosevelt section. If something looks wrong on the surface — doubling, discoloration, thin areas — read the PMD filter section first before drawing any conclusions.
Common Dime Damage That Looks Like Errors (But Isn't)
Post-mint damage (PMD) constitutes the vast majority of "discovery" claims in the dime error community. Before attributing a coin's unusual appearance to a mint anomaly, methodically apply the four PMD filters below. Each one describes the physics of how the damage occurs, what it looks like, and — critically — how it differs from the genuine error it resembles.
⚠️ The #1 Rule
If it looks too dramatic to be real, it probably isn't. Genuine mint errors have consistent, repeatable characteristics traceable to a specific mechanical failure. Post-mint damage is random and almost always shows evidence of external force: scratches, heat discoloration, compression artifacts, or chemically etched surfaces.
PMD Filter 1: The Dryer Coin (vs. Broadstrike)
Left: Genuine broadstrike dime showing expanded diameter and flat, non-existent rim. Right: Dryer-coin PMD showing compressed diameter and abnormally thickened, rounded rim. Red markers highlight the diagnostic diameter difference.
Mechanism: When a dime is trapped between a rotating clothes dryer drum and its stationary housing, the coin is subjected to continuous rolling heat and pressure. The edge repeatedly impacts the drum walls, upsetting metal upward and inward and creating a thick, rounded rim. The document describes this as one of the most pervasive PMD types affecting dimes. Learn more at Adventures in CRH: Dryer Coins.
Diagnostic profile: The rim appears unusually high and broad — often described as resembling a bezel or pie-crust edge. Surface details are polished and mushy from heat and friction. The coin may feel slightly oily or have a dull sheen.
The key differentiator — diameter: This is absolute. A dryer coin has a smaller diameter and a thicker rim (metal compressed inward). A genuine broadstrike error has a larger diameter and a thinner or absent rim (metal flowed outward without collar restraint). Measure the coin. A standard dime is 17.91mm. A broadstrike dime will exceed this; a dryer coin will be smaller.
PMD Filter 2: Acid / Chemical Damage (vs. Missing Clad Layer or Thin Planchet)
Left: Genuine missing clad layer error showing sharp struck details and abrupt copper/nickel color boundary. Right: Acid-damaged dime showing gradient corrosion, pitted surface texture, and mushy, skeletal lettering. Yellow arrows mark the diagnostic surface texture difference.
Mechanism: Dimes recovered from the ground, fountains, or industrial environments can be chemically leached. In clad coins, the alloy may be attacked uniformly or the copper core may be more reactive in acidic environments. Full details on the chemistry of acid-damaged coins are documented at Error-Ref.com: Acid Shrunk Coins.
Diagnostic profile: The coin is noticeably thinner than standard and weighs significantly less than tolerance. Design features appear blurry or melted; lettering becomes thin and skeletal. Under 10x–20x magnification, the metal shows microscopic cratering and granularity, unlike the flow lines on a correctly struck coin.
The key differentiator: A genuine missing clad layer error will show a stark, abrupt color transition between copper and nickel surfaces with sharp struck details on both sides (though slightly weak due to reduced thickness). Acid damage affects the entire surface or large patches with a gradient of corrosion, and the color is a dull earthy brown or gray — not the bright red of freshly exposed copper. The APMEX Learn center provides a practical guide: APMEX: My Dime Is Thin and Lightweight — Is It an Error?
PMD Filter 3: Heat Damage (vs. Improper Annealing Error)
Mechanism (PMD): A coin exposed to a house fire, blowtorch, or campfire oxidizes rapidly. The clad layers may bubble or separate from expanding trapped gases, and the metal discolors to charcoal black or dull red. Coin World's technical analysis of this distinction is archived at Coin World: Excessive Heat and Edge Damage.
Mechanism (Error — Improper Annealing): This genuine error occurs during the planchet preparation phase. If planchets remain too long in the annealing furnace or if the oxygen-reduction atmosphere fails, copper atoms migrate to the surface, creating a copper wash or black sintered layer that is then struck into the coin. Full documentation at Error-Ref.com: Improper Annealing.
The key differentiator: Genuine sintered planchets retain a smooth, hard surface with mint luster still visible underneath the discoloration. The coin will ring normally when dropped. Fire-damaged coins are dull, brittle, and porous, often warped. A thud sound when the coin is dropped — indicating compromised structural integrity — or discoloration that flakes off to reveal damage beneath, confirms PMD.
PMD Filter 4: Spooning and Ring Making
Mechanism: The edge of the dime is tapped repeatedly with a spoon or hammer — the first step in crafting a coin ring. This destroys the edge reeding completely.
The key differentiator: No minting process creates a thick, smooth rim with a reduced diameter. If all 118 reeds are missing and the rim is massively flared and wide, it is deliberate alteration. Genuine broadstrikes lack reeding but do not have a reduced diameter.
PMD Filter 5: Machine Doubling (vs. Hub Doubled Die)
Left: Genuine hub-doubled die showing rounded, raised secondary image with notched letter serifs — both images in full relief. Right: Machine doubling (PMD) showing flat, shelf-like secondary image with reduced device width. Red circles highlight the serif notching diagnostic on genuine doubling.
Machine doubling** is not a valuable error. It occurs during the strike when the die bounces slightly, smearing the design into the coin's surface. The result is a flat, shelf-like secondary image that reduces the width of the devices. This is extremely common and adds no premium value.
Hub doubling (DDO/DDR) is a die-level error created during the die-making process when the die shifts between hub impressions. The diagnostic is rounded, notched secondary images on letter serifs and numerals, both images fully in relief. Under magnification, look for split serifs at the corners of letters and numerals. The doubling should have the same three-dimensional raised quality as the primary image — not a flat shelf.
Mercury Dime Errors & Varieties (1916–1945)
The Mercury dime, designed by Adolph A. Weinman, is widely considered one of the most beautiful in U.S. coinage and contains some of the most significant pre-clad rarities. The series spans 30 years and three mints. Hand-punched mintmarks on individual working dies created the overdate and repunched mintmark possibilities that define this series' error landscape. For an overview of Mercury Dime values, see the Mercury Dime Value Guide. Key date authentication guidance is available from PCGS: Six Classic Mercury Dime Key Dates and Rarities.
Trophy Errors: High-Value Mercury Dime Targets
| Year & Mint | Variety / Error | Primary Diagnostic | Approx. Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1916 D | Key Date (Low Mintage) | D on reverse between ONE and branch; 264,000 mintage | $650+ (G4) → $20,000+ (high grade) |
| 1942 (P) | 1942/1 Overdate | Diagonal serif of '1' protrudes from left of '2'; vertical bar bisects '2' | $400+ circ → $2,000+ MS |
| 1942 D | 1942/1-D Overdate | Same overdate diagnostics as Philadelphia issue; D mintmark present | $400+ circ → five figures MS |
| 1945 S | Micro S Mintmark | S mintmark significantly smaller than standard; compact, appears as a blob | $20 circ → $100+ MS |
1916-D Mercury Dime (Key Date)
1916-D Mercury dime reverse showing the 'D' mintmark location between 'E' in ONE and the olive branch. Red circle marks the mintmark field. Inset shows a counterfeit mintmark for comparison.
The 1916-D is the lowest-mintage coin in the Mercury dime series at 264,000 pieces, all struck at the Denver Mint. It is technically a key date rather than a mint error, but its extreme rarity and high counterfeit rate place it in every serious error and variety discussion. The D mintmark appears on the reverse, positioned between the 'E' in ONE and the olive branch.
Counterfeit alert: Because of its high value, many 1916-D dimes are counterfeits made by adding a 'D' mintmark to an authentic 1916 Philadelphia coin. Authentication requires checking the specific position of the mintmark relative to the branch and the precise shape of the 'D' punch. Third-party grading by PCGS or NGC is essential for any 1916-D. Full authentication guidance is published at Gainesville Coins: Key Date Mercury Dimes.
Values: Even in poor condition (G-4), a genuine example commands $650–$800. High-grade specimens can exceed $20,000.
1942/1 Overdate (Philadelphia and Denver)
Close-up of the 1942/1 Mercury dime date showing the diagonal serif of the '1' protruding from the left side of the '2', and the vertical bar of the '1' bisecting the lower curve of the '2'. Red circles highlight both diagnostic features.
The 1942/1 overdate is a major variety for the Mercury series. A die intended for 1941 production received an additional hub impression from a 1942 hub (or vice versa), impressing a secondary date image onto the existing die.
Diagnostics: The diagonal serif of the '1' is clearly visible protruding from the left side of the '2'. The vertical bar of the '1' is also visible bisecting the '2'. Both features must be present and distinct for a confident attribution.
Values: A circulated example can fetch $400–$600. Mint State examples reach five figures. The Philadelphia issue is generally more valuable in lower grades.
PCGS CoinFacts lists the 1942/1 variety at PCGS CoinFacts: 1942/1 10C. Market auction data is tracked at PriceCharting: 1942/1 Mercury Dime.
For all 1942 dime errors and varieties, see 1942 Dime Errors.
1945-S Micro S Mintmark
Side-by-side comparison of 1945-S normal mintmark (left) versus 1945-S Micro S mintmark (right). Yellow arrow points to the noticeably smaller, compact 'S' punch on the Micro S variety. Both shown at 10x magnification.
In 1945, the San Francisco Mint used a mintmark punch that was significantly smaller than the standard 1945 'S' punch — believed to be a punch associated with earlier Philippine coinage or an older, smaller punch applied in error.
Diagnostics: The Micro S is compact and often appears as a blob rather than a defined, serifed letter. When compared side by side with a normal 1945-S dime under magnification, the size difference is immediately apparent. The NGC Coin Explorer documents this variety at NGC: 1945-S Micro S Mercury Dime.
Values: A circulated 1945-S Micro S trades for approximately $20, versus a standard 1945-S. In Mint State, the Micro S commands $100+. By contrast, the 1945-P in MS-65 is a $30 coin while an MS-65 Full Bands specimen reaches $10,000+ — making strike quality critical for this date.
For all 1945 dime errors, see 1945 Dime Errors.
ℹ️ Full Bands (FB) Designation — A Critical Mercury Dime Value Driver
The Full Bands designation is not an error, but it dramatically affects Mercury dime values. The central horizontal bands holding the rods of the fasces on the reverse must be fully separated with a complete split line and no bridging of metal. Certain years — notably 1945 — used worn hubs that made full strikes nearly impossible, turning Full Band coins into extreme rarities. Always check strike quality before buying or selling any Mercury dime in Mint State.
Findable Errors: Mercury Dime Cherrypicker's List
Beyond the major varieties, Mercury dimes offer accessible cherrypicking opportunities for collectors working on a budget. Repunched mintmarks (RPMs) exist across the series wherever hand-punched mintmarks required multiple applications. Die cracks and cuds are found in late-die-state coins from the 1940s. Lamination errors — planchet flaws where layers of metal separate — appear sporadically across all years and are collectible in Choice or better grades. These are found in raw dealer bins and at coin shows, often unattributed and priced at bullion or slight premium.
Common Traps: Mercury Dime Era
No mintmark ≠ error: Philadelphia Mint dimes carried no mintmark throughout the Mercury series. A 1942 dime without a mintmark is a normal Philadelphia coin, not an error. Only Denver (D) and San Francisco (S) coins carried mintmarks on the reverse. Wear vs. weak strike: Many Mercury dimes — especially 1940s Philadelphia issues — are notoriously weakly struck. A coin showing mushy details at the bands and torch may simply be a weak strike rather than a circulated coin. Check the high points (hair above the ear, torch base) for actual wear evidence before assigning a grade.
For standard Mercury Dime values by year, see our Mercury Dime Value Guide.
Silver Roosevelt Dime Errors (1946–1964)
The early Roosevelt dime shares its 90% silver composition with the Mercury series, meaning the same weight standard (2.50g) applies for authentication. The most significant cataloged error in this era is the 1964-D Doubled Die Reverse, complemented by a well-documented population of repunched mintmarks across the 1946–1964 span. For a comprehensive value reference, see the Roosevelt Dime Value Guide and PCGS's summary at PCGS: 5 Roosevelt Dimes Collectors Should Look For.
Trophy Errors: Silver Roosevelt Dime Targets
| Year & Mint | Variety / Error | Primary Diagnostic | Approx. Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 D | Doubled Die Reverse (FS-805) | Wide, distinct doubling on 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' and 'ONE DIME' | $100+ (AU) → $300–$500 MS |
1964-D Doubled Die Reverse (FS-805)
Close-up of the 1964-D Roosevelt dime reverse showing doubled die doubling on 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' and 'ONE DIME.' Red circles mark the doubling separation points. Inset shows a normal 1964-D reverse for comparison.
The 1964-D Doubled Die Reverse (FS-805) is the premier cataloged variety in the silver Roosevelt series. The doubling is described as wide and distinct — not the flat, shelf-like appearance of machine doubling. This is a die-level error created during die manufacture, making it a repeatable variety found on every coin struck by the affected die.
Diagnostics: Strong, distinct doubling is visible on the reverse legends 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' and 'ONE DIME.' The separation is wide enough to be identifiable under a 10x loupe without strain. The doubled elements should show a rounded, raised secondary image — not a flat smear. Confirm this is not machine doubling by checking that both the primary and secondary images are fully in relief.
Values: Circulated examples bring $50+; AU specimens command $100+. Mint State examples reach $300–$500, with a premium for coins also carrying the Full Torch designation.
For all 1964 dime errors and varieties, see 1964 Dime Errors.
Findable Errors: 1964-D Repunched Mintmarks (RPMs)
The 1964-D RPM series is one of the most extensively cataloged in the Roosevelt denomination. Because mintmarks were still hand-punched into working dies through 1989, the 1964-D date — with its high mintage and careful study by the variety community — has yielded varieties RPM-001 through RPM-010. After 1990, the mintmark was incorporated directly into the master hub, making RPMs impossible on modern Roosevelt dimes. The full RPM catalog for 1964-D is documented at Variety Vista: 1964-D Roosevelt Dime RPMs. These trade at a premium over common date values, though they are less valuable than the major DDR variety.
Lamination errors and minor planchet flaws are findable across the silver Roosevelt era. Because these coins are still occasionally found in old rolls and estate collections, cherrypicking opportunities remain viable.
Common Traps: Silver Roosevelt Era
No mintmark = Philadelphia (not an error): Philadelphia dimes carried no mintmark from 1946 through 1979. A 1964 Roosevelt dime without a mintmark is completely normal. The absence of a mintmark becomes significant only starting with 1980 (when the P was added) — a situation discussed in detail in the Clad Era section below. Full Torch matters: As with Mercury Full Bands, the Full Torch (FT) designation significantly affects silver Roosevelt values. Confirm strike quality before valuing any Mint State silver Roosevelt.
For standard Silver Roosevelt Dime values, see our Roosevelt Dime Value Guide.
Clad Roosevelt Dime Errors (1965–Present)
The 1965 clad transition is the defining event in Roosevelt dime error collecting. It created the most valuable transitional wrong-planchet error in the series and established an entirely new error vector — missing clad layers — that did not exist during the silver era. The clad era also produced the legendary No S proof errors and the widely sought 1982 No P variety. The full picture of clad-era targets is outlined in Bullion Exchanges: The 1965 Roosevelt Dime.
Trophy Errors: Clad Roosevelt Dime Targets
| Year & Mint | Variety / Error | Primary Diagnostic | Approx. Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1965 | Silver Transitional Error | Weight: 2.50g (not 2.27g); solid silver edge | $3,000–$9,000 |
| 1975No S | No S Proof (Only 2 Known) | Mirror proof surfaces; no 'S' mintmark; found in Proof Sets | $500,000+ |
| 1968No S | No S Proof | Mirror proof surfaces; no 'S' mintmark; found in Proof Sets | $20,000+ |
| 1982 No P | No P (Strong Strike) | No 'P' mintmark on obverse; 1982 date; strong field details | $100+ circ → $250–$300 MS; $800–$1,000MS-67 |
| 1983No S | No S Proof | Mirror proof surfaces; no 'S' mintmark; found in Proof Sets | $1,500+ |
| 1970No S | No S Proof | Mirror proof surfaces; no 'S' mintmark; found in Proof Sets | See PCGS for current estimates |
1965 Silver Transitional Error
1965 Roosevelt dime transitional silver error: full coin image with weight readout showing 2.50g on a digital scale. Inset shows edge comparison — solid silver edge (error) versus copper-stripe edge (normal clad). Red arrow marks the distinguishing edge detail.
In 1965, the U.S. Mint transitioned from 90% silver planchets to copper-nickel clad planchets. During this changeover, a small number of 1965-dated dies were paired with silver planchets that had been produced for 1964-dated coins, creating the 1965 Silver Transitional Error.
The only reliable identification method is weight. Visually, the obverse and reverse of a 1965 Silver Transitional are indistinguishable from a standard 1965 clad dime. The edge provides a secondary clue — a transitional silver dime will show a solid silver-white edge without the characteristic copper stripe of a clad coin — but weight is definitive. A 1965 dime weighing 2.50g is a silver transitional error. A 1965 dime weighing 2.27g is a standard clad coin worth face value.
The reverse transitional also exists: A 1964 dime struck on a clad planchet (weighing 2.27g instead of 2.50g) is equally rare and equally valuable.
Values:$3,000–$9,000 depending on grade. Third-party grading by PCGS or NGC is strongly recommended for any suspected transitional, as the weight claim must be verifiable and the coin sealed in a tamper-evident holder.
For all 1965 dime errors, see 1965 Dime Errors.
No S Proof Dimes (1968, 1970, 1975, 1983)
1975 No S Roosevelt Proof dime showing mirror-finish proof surfaces and the absence of the 'S' mintmark on the obverse below Roosevelt's portrait. Red circle marks the empty mintmark field. Inset shows a normal 1975-S proof for comparison.
The No S proof dimes are among the most dramatic errors in all of modern U.S. numismatics. Proof coins are struck at the San Francisco Mint with mirror-finish dies and polished planchets, and they are intended to carry the 'S' mintmark. These errors occurred when a working die was sent from Philadelphia — where dies are manufactured — to San Francisco without receiving the 'S' punch.
Search strategy: No S proofs are found in Proof Sets, not normally in pocket change (though broken-up proof sets do occasionally enter circulation). If you encounter a dime with mirror-like, cameo-contrast proof surfaces from 1968, 1970, 1975, or 1983 that lacks any mintmark, verify it immediately with a loupe.
- 1975 No S: Only two examples are known to exist. Value estimates exceed $500,000.
- 1968 No S: The first of the series to be identified. Value: $20,000+.
- 1983 No S: More examples known but still rare. Value: $1,500+.
- 1970 No S: Part of the same series; consult current PCGS and NGC population reports for valuations.
For all 1975 dime errors, see 1975 Dime Errors. For 1968 dime errors, see 1968 Dime Errors. For 1983 dime errors, see 1983 Dime Errors.
1982 No P Roosevelt Dime
1982 Roosevelt dime obverse showing the area below Roosevelt's portrait where the 'P' mintmark should appear. Red circle marks the empty field confirming the No P error. Inset shows a normal 1982-P dime with the 'P' mintmark visible for comparison.
In 1980, the Philadelphia Mint began adding a 'P' mintmark to Roosevelt dimes — the first time in the series that Philadelphia coins bore any mintmark. In 1982, a working die was prepared without the 'P' punch being applied, likely due to a lapse in the die preparation shop.
Critical context: A Roosevelt dime dated before 1980 without a mintmark is completely normal (Philadelphia issues never carried a mark through 1979). Only a 1982 dime without a 'P' mintmark is the error. Do not confuse a standard 1979-P-era coin with this variety.
Varieties: Two strike qualities are documented — a Strong Strike variety (the majority of the known population, showing full detail) and a Weak Strike variety (mushy details, likely from a different or late-die-state die). The Strong Strike is generally preferred by collectors.
Values: Circulated examples command $100+. Mint State examples trade in the range of $150–$300. In MS-67, realized prices of $800–$1,000 have been documented in recent years, driven by Registry Set competition. The CoinWeek reference guide covers the variety in depth: CoinWeek: 1982-P Roosevelt Dime — A Collector's Guide.
For all 1982 dime errors, see 1982 Dime Errors.
Findable Errors: Clad Roosevelt Dime Cherrypicker's List
Missing Clad Layer ($20–$50): These occur when the nickel-copper outer strip fails to bond to the copper core during rolling. A coin punched from delaminated strip will be copper on one side and silver on the other. Weight diagnostic: a dime missing one clad layer weighs approximately 1.8g–2.0g — noticeably below the 2.27g standard. Obverse missing clad layers are generally more desirable. Third-party grading guidance for this error type is at PCGS CoinFacts: Errors.
Clipped Planchets: Curved, straight, and ragged clip types exist across the clad Roosevelt series. Authenticate with the Blakesley Effect — the rim opposite the clip should be weak or absent. A sharp, full rim directly opposite the supposed clip indicates PMD (post-mint cutting).
Broadstrikes: Missing-collar errors produce a coin with a diameter larger than 17.91mm, a flat or absent rim, and no reeding. Design is fully present and centered. Do not confuse with dryer coins (smaller diameter).
Off-Center Strikes: Only a portion of the design is struck; the remainder is blank planchet. Minor examples (10–20% off-center) trade for $5–$20. Values escalate significantly with higher percentage off-center and with the date fully visible in the struck area.
1996-W Roosevelt Dime ($15–$30): Not an error, but a limited-issue coin struck at the West Point Mint for the 1996 Uncirculated Mint Set, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Roosevelt design. With a mintage of 1.457 million — extremely low for a modern coin — it is frequently cherry-picked unattributed from dealer bins. The 'W' mintmark is the only diagnostic needed. Full context at PCGS: The Scarce 1996-W Roosevelt Dime.
For all 1996 dime errors and varieties, see 1996 Dime Errors.
Common Traps: Clad Era
The pre-1980 no-P trap: The single most common error-claim mistake in the Roosevelt series. Any Roosevelt dime dated 1979 or earlier without a mintmark is a normal Philadelphia issue. The absence of a 'P' is only significant starting in 1980, and the error is only known for the specific 1982 date. Proof surfaces ≠ error: A shiny, reflective dime is not automatically a No S proof. Modern proofs are easily distinguishable by their cameo contrast and sharp, mirrored fields. If your proof-like coin is dated after 1983 and has an S mintmark, it is a standard proof. No S errors are confirmed only for 1968, 1970, 1975, and 1983.
For standard Roosevelt Dime values by year, see our Roosevelt Dime Value Guide.
U.S. Dime Error FAQs
How do I know if my dime has a valuable error?
Start with the four-step triage protocol: sort by era (silver vs. clad), weigh it precisely on a digital scale, check the edge appearance (solid silver vs. copper stripe vs. smooth), and examine the date and mintmark under magnification. The vast majority of anomalous-looking dimes are post-mint damage — dryer coins, acid corrosion, and machine doubling account for nearly all discoveries. Weight is the single most decisive tool: it will immediately confirm or eliminate transitional wrong-planchet errors and missing clad layer errors, which are among the most valuable finds.
What is the most valuable dime error ever found?
The 1975 No S Roosevelt Proof Dime is the most valuable documented dime error, with value estimates exceeding $500,000. Only two examples are known to exist, both discovered in 1975 Proof Sets. The error occurred when a proof die was sent to the San Francisco Mint without the 'S' mintmark punch being applied. The 1968 No S Proof is the next most valuable, at $20,000+. For non-proof errors in the circulation series, the 1965 Silver Transitional Error — a 1965-dated dime struck on a 90% silver planchet — commands $3,000–$9,000.
How do I tell if my dime is silver?
Three methods, in order of reliability: First, weigh it — a silver dime weighs 2.50 grams; a clad dime weighs 2.27 grams. Any dime dated 1964 or earlier should weigh 2.50g. Second, check the edge — a silver dime has a solid white/silver edge with no stripe; a clad dime shows a brown copper stripe at the core when viewed edge-on. Third, check the date — all dimes dated 1964 or earlier are 90% silver. All dimes dated 1965 or later are clad, except for the extremely rare 1965 Silver Transitional Error.
What is the 1982 No P dime and how would I find one?
In 1980 the Philadelphia Mint added a 'P' mintmark to its Roosevelt dimes. In 1982, one working die was prepared without receiving the 'P' punch, producing coins that look like pre-1980 Philadelphia dimes but are dated 1982. Finding one today requires examining 1982 dimes — date roll hunting or checking coin shop bins — and confirming the absence of the 'P' below the portrait on the obverse. Most examples have already been pulled from circulation over the decades. In Mint State, the strong-strike variety commands $150–$300; in MS-67, realized prices of $800–$1,000 have been documented.
What's the difference between a hub doubled die and machine doubling?
Hub doubling (DDO or DDR) is a valuable die-level error created when the die shifts between hub impressions during manufacture, producing a secondary image impressed into the die itself. The result on the coin is a rounded, raised secondary image with notched letter serifs — both images fully in relief. Every coin struck by that die carries the same doubling. Machine doubling is post-strike PMD with no collector premium: the die bounces slightly during the strike, smearing the surface into a flat, shelf-like secondary impression that reduces the width of the devices. Under magnification, the flat, wispy nature of machine doubling is distinct from the bold, three-dimensional appearance of hub doubling.
Is a Roosevelt dime with no mintmark an error?
It depends on the year. Philadelphia Mint Roosevelt dimes carried no mintmark from 1946 through 1979. Any Roosevelt dime dated 1979 or earlier without a mintmark is completely normal. Starting in 1980, the Philadelphia Mint added a 'P' mintmark. A Roosevelt dime dated 1980 or later without any mintmark warrants investigation — specifically, a 1982 dime without a 'P' is the documented No P error. Coins from 1965 through 1967 also carry no mintmark regardless of mint, as the Mint temporarily suppressed all mintmarks during the clad transition.
What is the Full Torch (FT) or Full Bands (FB) designation, and why does it matter?
Full Torch (FT, used by NGC) and Full Bands (FB, used by PCGS) designations indicate that a Roosevelt dime or Mercury dime was struck with enough pressure to fully separate the horizontal bands of the torch or fasces on the reverse. Weakly struck coins — common in many years and mint facilities — show bridging between these bands. Coins with full separation command significant premiums, sometimes 10x or more over non-designated examples of the same date. For Mercury dimes, the 1945-P is a textbook example: MS-65 without Full Bands is approximately $30; MS-65 FB is a $10,000+ rarity.
Where are No S proof dimes found?
No S proof dimes are found in original Proof Sets from the relevant years (1968, 1970, 1975, 1983). They are not normally found in pocket change because proof coins are only distributed in sets. However, proof sets are sometimes broken up and individual coins enter the marketplace or, rarely, circulation. If you encounter a dime with mirror-like, cameo-contrast surfaces from one of these years and no mintmark is visible, examine it carefully and have it authenticated by PCGS or NGC. The 1975 No S is so rare that both known examples were discovered in sealed 1975 Proof Sets.
What is a clipped planchet error and how do I confirm it's genuine?
A clipped planchet error occurs when the blanking punch overlaps a previously punched hole or the strip edge, cutting out a planchet with a curved, straight, or ragged section missing. The critical authentication tool is the Blakesley Effect: because metal cannot flow to fill the rim in the area opposite the clip during striking, the rim on the opposite side of the coin will be weak or absent. If a dime appears to have a clip but has a sharp, fully defined rim directly opposite the missing section, it was cut after minting (PMD) and has no collector premium.
Should I get my error dime graded by PCGS or NGC?
For any dime error with an estimated value above approximately $100, third-party grading is strongly recommended. This is especially true for: (1) suspected 1965 Silver Transitional errors — the grading service will weigh the coin and seal the certified weight in the holder; (2) any No S proof — authentication requires expert examination of proof surfaces and die characteristics; (3) 1916-D dimes — the high counterfeit rate makes raw attribution unreliable. For lower-value errors like minor off-centers or missing clad layers, the grading fee may not be economical unless the coin grades exceptionally high.
Methodology & Sources
All diagnostic criteria, specifications, valuations, and auction records in this guide are sourced directly from the references below. No values, rarity claims, or diagnostic descriptions have been added beyond what these sources state explicitly. Third-party authentication by PCGS CoinFacts and NGC Coin Explorer is recommended for any coin valued above $100.
- PCGS: Six Classic Mercury Dime Key Dates and Rarities
- PCGS: 5 Roosevelt Dimes Collectors Should Look For
- PCGS: The Scarce 1996-W Roosevelt Dime
- PriceCharting: 1942/1 Mercury Dime
- Variety Vista: 1964-D Roosevelt Dime RPMs
- CoinWeek: 1982-P Roosevelt Dime Collector's Guide
- Error-Ref.com: Acid Shrunk Coins
- Error-Ref.com: Improper Annealing
- Coin World: Excessive Heat and Edge Damage
- Bullion Exchanges: 1965 Roosevelt Dime
- APMEX Learn: My Dime Is Thin and Lightweight
- Gainesville Coins: Key Date Mercury Dimes
- Adventures in CRH: Dryer Coins — What Are They?
- U.S. Mint: Dime
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.
