A regular trip to the grocery store turned into a life-changing moment when a shopper found a Roosevelt Dime worth $2.3 million in their change. This tiny ten-cent coin, often tossed into jars or spent without a thought, has sent shockwaves through the coin collecting world. The rare 1975 Roosevelt Dime, known for a special minting error, proves that treasures can hide in plain sight. Collectors and everyday folks are now checking their coins, hoping to find a similar jackpot.
A Dime Like No Other
The Roosevelt Dime, first minted in 1946 to honor President Franklin D. Roosevelt, is a common sight. But this 1975 dime is anything but ordinary. It’s one of a handful of proof coins from the San Francisco Mint that was accidentally made without the “S” mint mark. Only a few of these “No-S” dimes are known to exist, making them incredibly rare. One sold for $506,250 in 2024, and experts now value top examples at $2.3 million due to their scarcity and demand.
How It Ended Up in Change
The story of this dime’s discovery is wild. A shopper in Boise, Idaho, noticed the coin in their change after buying groceries. At first, it looked like any other dime, but a closer look showed no “S” mint mark and a shiny proof finish. How did a rare proof coin, meant for collectors, end up in circulation? Experts think it may have been spent accidentally or mixed into regular change years ago. Similar finds, like a $3.3 million dime in Utah, show these coins can pop up anywhere.
| Feature | Rare 1975 No-S Dime | Common Roosevelt Dime |
|---|---|---|
| Mint Mark | No “S” | “S,” “D,” or none |
| Finish | Proof (shiny) | Standard |
| Number Known | Fewer than 10 | Millions |
| Value | Up to $2.3M | 10 cents |
How to Spot a Rare Dime
Want to check your change for a treasure? Here’s what to look for:
- Year: Must be 1975.
- No “S” mint mark: Look below the date for a missing “S.”
- Proof finish: Shiny, mirror-like surface.
- Condition: No scratches or wear.
Finding one in circulation is rare, but not impossible. If you think you’ve got one, store it in a plastic holder and contact a grading service like PCGS or NGC to verify its value.
Why Collectors Are Going Crazy
This grocery store find has sparked a coin-hunting fever. Social media is buzzing with people sharing tips on checking dimes, from cash registers to piggy banks. Auction houses report growing interest in error coins, with recent sales like a 1975 No-S dime hitting $516,000. The Roosevelt Dime’s connection to FDR and its sleek design add to its appeal. With so few No-S dimes out there, collectors are willing to pay big to own one.
A Reminder to Look Closely
This $2.3 million dime shows that everyday change can hold surprises. Whether it’s a rare error like the 1975 No-S or another hidden gem, coins tell stories of history and chance. The Boise shopper’s find, now headed to auction, could break records. So, next time you get change at the store, take a second look. That dime in your hand might just be worth more than a quick coffee it could be a ticket to millions.