The common ten-cent coin of the Roosevelt dime (1968) depicts the Franklin D. Roosevelt image as part of the obverse and a torch, olive, and oak branches as part of the reverse.
However, some of the 1968 dimes have become very valuable due to their scarcity. This occurs due to a minting error, where the ‘S’ mint mark indicating the coin was produced at San Francisco Mint is missing. So, the ‘No S’ dimes are valuable among coin collectors, attaining a price of up to $45,600 at auction.
Understanding the ‘No S’ Mint Mark Error
In 1968, the U.S. Mint resumed mint marks on coins after a brief period from 1965 to 1967. Such coins of proof quality were typically produced at San Francisco and carried the mint mark ‘S.
There was, however, an accident in which a small number of proof dimes were created without the ‘S’ mark. Thus came to be the extremely rare ‘No S’ version.
The exact quantity of these error coins is not known. However, it is estimated that only a few dozen exist today, making it an important find for any coin collector.
Key Features of the 1968 ‘No S’ Dime
Obverse Design: Visual representation of President Franklin D. Roosevelt as designed by Chief Engraver John R. Kinnock.
Reverse Design: Torch, olive, and oak branches, free, peaceful, and strong.
Composition: Made of copper-nickel alloy, using 75% copper and 25% nickel.
Diameter: 17.90 millimeters
Weight: 2.27 grams
Value and Rarity
The value of a 1968 ‘No S’ dime depends on its condition (grade), and coins with higher grades sell for premium prices. For example, a specimen with a PR68 grade sold for $32,200 in 2005.
In 2025, similar coins sold at auction for around $45,600, showing that they are still in demand among collectors.
Collectibility and Demand
Due to their rarity, ‘No S’ dimes are highly desirable to coin collectors. These rarely appear at auctions, and only one or two coins come to market every few years.

This rarity and high demand ensure that these coins prove to be valuable additions to any collection.
How to Identify a 1968 ‘No S’ Dime?
To identify a 1968 ‘No S’ dime, look at the obverse of the coin above the date. If the ‘S’ mint mark is missing, it may be a ‘No S’ error coin.
Note that regular commercial coins minted in Philadelphia also do not have a mint mark, but they are common and have no additional value.
Estimated value based on coin condition
Grade | Estimated Value |
---|---|
PR65 | $5,000 – $10,000 |
PR66 | $10,000 – $20,000 |
PR67 | $20,000 – $35,000 |
PR68 | $35,000 – $50,000 |
Conclusion
The 1968 ‘No S’ Roosevelt dime is a rare and valuable coin, highly prized by collectors. Its rarity and unique history make it a prized asset for coin collectors and enthusiasts.
FAQs
1. How do I know if my 1968 dime is a ‘No S’ edition?
A. Look at the obverse of the coin above the date. If there is no ‘S’ mint mark and it is a proof edition, it may be a ‘No S.’
2. Are all 1968 dimes that do not have a mint mark valuable?
A. No, only those proof dimes that were made at the San Francisco Mint but were mistakenly minted without the ‘S’ mint mark are valuable. Commercial coins from the Philadelphia Mint, which have no mint mark, are common and have no additional value.
3. How many 1968 ‘No S’ dimes exist?
A. The exact number is unknown, but it is estimated that only a few dozen are available, making these extremely rare.
4. What is the highest auction price for a 1968 ‘No S’ dime?
A. Some coins have sold at auction for as much as $45,600, depending on the condition and grade of the coin.