An ultra-rare 1975 “No S” proof dime recently fetched an astounding $506,250 at an online auction held on October 27, 2024. This extraordinary coin has captured the attention of collectors due to its rarity and unusual minting error, making it one of only two known examples in existence.
Originally minted by the U.S. Mint in San Francisco, the dime should have been stamped with an “S” mint mark, but it was mistakenly struck without it—a detail that elevates its value to nearly five million times its original face value of ten cents.
1975 No S Proof Dime
The 1975 “No S” proof dime, a part of the Roosevelt Dime series, is renowned for its unique error, as it lacks the San Francisco mint mark.
Usually, proof dimes minted in San Francisco are marked with an “S” on the obverse side, distinguishing them from dimes produced in other locations like Denver and Philadelphia. However, this rare dime missed the mint mark, making it exceptionally rare.
Over 2.8 million proof sets were produced in 1975, but only two dimes without the “S” mint mark have been discovered, making them a significant numismatic find. In 2019, the only other known 1975 No S proof dime sold for $456,000 at auction. Shortly after, it changed hands in a private sale for an impressive $516,000.
Background of the Auctioned Coin
The recently auctioned dime was a part of a collection owned by a family in Ohio. The current sellers inherited the coin from their brother, who had purchased it in 1978 for $18,200, equivalent to about $90,000 today.
Their parents viewed the coin as a financial safety net and kept it secure in a bank vault for over four decades. Despite its initial low purchase price, the coin’s value has grown dramatically due to its extreme rarity and the fascination it holds among coin collectors.
Comparison of Auction Results
This recent auction demonstrates the considerable value growth of the 1975 No S proof dime over the years. The table below provides a comparison of some notable U.S. coins that have achieved impressive prices at auction, showcasing how rarity and unique mint errors contribute to high valuations.
| Coin | Year Minted | Mint Location | Quantity Known | Auction Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1975 No S Proof Dime | 1975 | San Francisco | 2 | $506,250 |
| 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | Various | 5 | Up to $3 million |
| 1804 Draped Bust Dollar | 1804 | Philadelphia | 15 | Up to $4 million |
| 1943 Bronze Penny | 1943 | Philadelphia | 10–15 | Up to $1.7 million |
| 1933 Double Eagle | 1933 | Philadelphia | 13 | Up to $7.6 million |
Increasing Interest in Error Coins
Coins like the 1975 No S proof dime highlight a growing interest in coins with mint errors. Such coins are typically highly sought after because of their rarity and the unusual circumstances surrounding their creation.
With the current spotlight on the 1975 No S proof dime, collectors are reminded of the potential value of rare coins in their collections, though experts note that it is unlikely more of these dimes exist. If more examples were to be found, they would likely still be in 1975 proof sets, not circulating in pocket change.
FAQs
What makes the 1975 No S proof dime so rare?
This dime is rare because it was struck without the “S” mint mark, a significant error, and only two such examples are known to exist.
How was the 1975 No S proof dime discovered?
The coin was originally purchased in 1978, and its value was recognized over time as one of only two known dimes with this minting error.
What was the original value of the 1975 No S proof dime?
This dime originally had a face value of ten cents, but its value has increased dramatically due to its unique minting error.
Are there more 1975 No S proof dimes in circulation?
Experts believe any additional examples would likely still be in unopened 1975 proof sets rather than in circulation.
How much did the 2019 No S proof dime sell for?
In 2019, the other known 1975 No S proof dime sold for $456,000, with a subsequent private sale price of $516,000.
