The $8.9 Million Roosevelt Dime That Could Be Hiding in Your Pocket
In a world where small change is often overlooked, one particular Roosevelt dime from 1965 is sparking national excitement. Estimated to be worth a staggering $8.9 million, this rare coin might still be quietly circulating — possibly resting in a cash drawer, coin jar, or even tucked into someone’s wallet.
A Minting Mistake Turned Millionaire
In 1965, the U.S. Mint made a key change by switching from 90% silver dimes to a copper-nickel clad version to save on production costs. However, a few dimes that year were mistakenly struck on leftover silver blanks from 1964. These rare transitional error coins are now worth millions due to their uniqueness.
Only a very limited number of these silver 1965 dimes have been confirmed, and their discovery always causes a stir in the world of coin collecting.
Why Is This Dime So Valuable?
The immense value of this dime comes from a mix of factors:
- Minting Error: Meant to be copper-nickel, some 1965 dimes were accidentally minted using 1964 silver blanks.
- Transitional Rarity: Mistakes made during design or metal changes are extremely collectible.
- Condition & Authentication: Top grading services like NGC and PCGS have confirmed a few in excellent condition.
- Market Craze: As demand for rare coins rises, private collectors and auctions are paying top dollar for authenticated examples.
How to Spot a Rare 1965 Silver Dime
1. Check the Date
Make sure it says “1965” on the obverse side under Roosevelt’s portrait.
2. Inspect the Edge
Modern dimes have a copper-colored rim. Silver ones will appear solid silver with no copper stripe.
3. Weigh the Coin
Use a precise digital scale:
- Regular clad dime: ~2.27 grams
- Rare silver dime: ~2.50 grams
4. Listen to the Sound
Drop the coin on a hard surface. Silver dimes ring with a clear, high tone, unlike the dull sound of clad coins.
5. Get a Professional Evaluation
Don’t clean the coin — send it to PCGS, NGC, or ANACS for authentication and grading.
Still Circulating? Believe It
Despite their rarity, a few silver 1965 dimes have surfaced in circulation — found in pocket change, vending machines, and rolled coins. Since they look nearly identical to regular dimes, they often go unnoticed.
Why the Surge in Interest?
With growing media coverage and rising coin values, collectors are now examining their change more closely. Many believe additional silver 1965 dimes are still out there, just waiting to be found.
Final Thought
Your next great discovery might already be in your pocket. A regular-looking dime could secretly be worth nearly $9 million. So before you dismiss your loose change, give it a closer look. That small coin could change your life.
FAQs
Q1: How many 1965 silver dimes are known to exist?
Only a few verified examples have been discovered, making this transitional error coin extremely rare and valuable.
Q2: Can I find a 1965 silver dime in circulation today?
Yes, though rare, a few have been found in circulation, especially in coin rolls or everyday pocket change.
Q3: Should I clean a 1965 silver dime if I think I found one?
No. Cleaning can reduce the coin’s value. Always have it professionally graded and authenticated first.
Q4: What’s the best way to check if my 1965 dime is silver?
Weigh it on a digital scale — silver dimes weigh around 2.50 grams and have no copper edge.