Coin Spotlight: Roosevelt Silver Dimes
Whether you currently own Roosevelt dimes and are looking to sell them, or would like to add them to your collection, it is essential to know the coin prices and values. Below are some facts related to these coins, as well as advice for collecting and selling them.
Origins of The Silver Roosevelt Dime
This dime was created in honor of Franklin Delano Roosevelt, President of the United States who captured four elections and played a key role in helping the nation win World War 2 while recovering from the Great Depression through his New Deal policies. He played a key role in the development of American liberalism and aside from Abraham Lincoln and George Washington is considered one of the greatest presidents in history. In 1945 he succumbed to cerebral hemorrhage, and due to the work he performed on behalf of the March of Dimes the U.S. Mint chose to honor him by minting this coin.
John R. Sinnock was responsible for the design of the dime, both on the reverse and obverse side. Variations of the design are still in usage today. The coin remains popular and well recognized among investors, with pre 1964 editions being the most esteemed. Roosevelt’s image can be seen on the obverse side, where it is facing to the left. Two inscriptions can be seen, one of which says “In God We Trust” while the other says “Liberty.” The coin’s reverse side displays a torch with an olive branch that can be seen to the left. An oak branch is visible to the right, and both branches symbolize strength and peace.
Collection And Circulation Analysis
The U.S. Mint has continued minting Roosevelt dimes which are widely circulated. However, the difference between these contemporary coins and the original issues is the metals that are used in them. Prior to 1964, each of the Roosevelt dimes was struck using 90 percent silver. After 1964, the U.S. Mint begins using nickel and copper alloy instead of silver. Therefore, when collecting these dimes it is important to only purchase those which were minted before 1964. The majority of Roosevelt dimes in circulation are collected and sold for bullion value. When selling the coins, it is crucial that you organize and sort them in a manner that allows the dealer to quickly perform an evaluation.
Coin Grades
Most Roosevelt dimes have been in circulation and as such will display some wear. Uncirculated coins carry a higher value, and all were struck at three mints, which are the San Francisco Mint, Denver Mint, and Philadelphia Mint. Mint marks are situated on the coin’s reverse side on the bottom.
The most valuable Roosevelt dimes will be those that were struck during the 1940s and 50s, which are in uncirculated condition. The specific offer you receive for your dimes can vary between dealers but should always depend on the coin’s grade and condition.