In a world where coins are often overlooked as mere pocket change, one rare Roosevelt dime from 1965 is creating a nationwide buzz. Estimated to be worth $8.9 million, this specific dime is reportedly still in circulation — meaning it could be sitting in a coin jar, resting in a cash drawer, or even tucked away in someone’s wallet right now.
The Dime That Defied the Mint
In 1965, the U.S. Mint made a historic change: it eliminated silver from circulating dimes, shifting to a clad composition of copper and nickel due to rising silver prices. However, a few dimes that year were accidentally struck on leftover 90% silver planchets from 1964 — a mistake that turned a few ordinary-looking dimes into multimillion-dollar collectibles.
These silver 1965 Roosevelt dimes are extraordinarily rare. Only a handful have ever been verified, and each time one surfaces, it sends shockwaves through the numismatic community.
What Makes This Dime Worth $8.9 Million?
It’s not just rarity — it’s the error and timing that drives the value. Here’s why this coin is so valuable:
- Off-Metal Strike: The 1965 dime was supposed to be copper-nickel clad, but a few were struck using 1964 silver planchets.
- Transitional Error: Coinage transitions are a magnet for collector interest, especially when minting mistakes occur during the switch.
- Authenticity & Condition: The few known examples were authenticated by top grading services like PCGS or NGC and were in exceptional condition.
- Market Demand: With interest in rare error coins skyrocketing, verified 1965 silver dimes have crossed multi-million dollar values at private sales and auctions.
How to Identify a Rare 1965 Silver Dime
Spotting the difference between the valuable version and an ordinary dime can be tricky — but not impossible. Here’s what you should check:
1. Date
- Confirm the coin reads “1965” below Roosevelt’s neck on the obverse side.
2. Rim Inspection
- Clad dimes will have a distinct copper-colored edge.
- Silver dimes will appear uniformly silver around the edge — no orange or copper stripe.
3. Weight
- Use a digital scale.
- Clad dime: ~2.27 grams
- Silver dime: ~2.50 grams
If your 1965 dime is closer to 2.5 grams, you may be holding silver.
4. Sound Test
- Silver dimes produce a high-pitched “ring” when dropped on a hard surface, unlike the duller “clank” of clad coins.
5. Professional Appraisal
- If you suspect you have one, don’t clean the coin. Have it graded and authenticated by PCGS, NGC, or ANACS.
Still in Circulation? Yes, Really.
With billions of dimes minted and many in active use for decades, rare coins like this can remain unnoticed for years — especially when they closely resemble common versions. A few verified silver 1965 dimes have been found in circulation, in coin rolls, and even from change at vending machines.
Why Collectors Are Searching Now
With rare coins gaining media attention and market demand surging, more people are checking their coins — especially older change from the 1960s and earlier. Experts believe a few more silver 1965 dimes are still out there, just waiting to be discovered.
Also, read: Kennedy Half Dollar Valued at $14.2 Million, Still in Circulation Surprises Family in Ohio
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Final Words
That humble Roosevelt dime in your change jar might not just be worth ten cents. In rare cases, it could be worth nearly $9 million. All it takes is a sharp eye, a little curiosity, and maybe — just maybe — some luck.
Before you toss your coins aside, take a second look. The next great coin discovery could literally be in your pocket.
