1955-S Roosevelt Dime : The 1955-S Roosevelt dime has become a fascinating topic among coin collectors and treasure hunters, though claims about instant millionaire status require careful examination. Minted in San Francisco with just over 18 million pieces produced, this dime isn’t particularly rare in circulated condition, typically worth only face value to a few dollars. However, the story changes dramatically when discussing pristine, uncirculated examples that have been professionally graded at the highest levels.
What makes certain 1955-S dimes valuable isn’t their scarcity but rather their condition and specific minting characteristics. Coins graded MS-67 or MS-68 by professional grading services can fetch hundreds to thousands of dollars at auction, as finding examples in such perfect condition proves exceptionally difficult. The surfaces must be virtually flawless, with full original luster, sharp strike details, and no visible marks even under magnification. Most dimes from this era show wear from decades of circulation, making mint-state examples increasingly scarce as collectors recognize their potential worth.
The “millionaire maker” claims stem from the broader context of rare coin discoveries, where certain varieties or errors can indeed be worth fortunes. While a standard 1955-S dime won’t fund retirement, it represents the type of coin that prompts people to examine their old change more carefully, potentially uncovering genuinely valuable pieces from other years or with minting errors.
Identifying Features That Determine Value
Examining a 1955-S Roosevelt dime requires attention to several crucial details that separate common pieces from valuable specimens. The “S” mintmark appears on the reverse, to the left of the torch’s base, indicating San Francisco production. This small letter should be clear and well-defined, as worn or damaged mintmarks reduce collector interest. The date on the obverse must be sharp and fully visible, with all four digits clearly struck.
Professional graders evaluate these dimes using a 70-point scale, where even single-point differences dramatically affect value. They examine the coin’s surfaces for contact marks, scratches, or other imperfections that occurred during minting or subsequent handling. (1955-S Roosevelt Dime) The bands on the torch represent a critical focal point – full, separated bands indicate a strong strike and command premium prices. Collectors call these “Full Band” or “FB” designations, and such coins trade for multiples of regular strikes.
Original mint luster plays an essential role in value determination. Uncirculated 1955-S dimes should display cartwheel luster that spins across the surface when tilted under light. Any cleaning, polishing, or artificial enhancement destroys this original surface and eliminates most collector value. Environmental damage like spots, toning, or corrosion similarly impacts worth, though attractive natural toning occasionally adds appeal for certain collectors.
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1955-S Roosevelt Dime Proper Storage and Preservation Methods
Finding a potentially valuable 1955-S dime in your collection requires immediate proper handling to preserve any existing value. Never clean coins with household products, jewelry cleaners, or abrasive materials, as this permanently damages surfaces and destroys collector value. Handle coins only by their edges, avoiding fingerprints on faces that can cause long-term damage through oils and acids from skin contact.
Store valuable coins in acid-free holders designed specifically for numismatic preservation. Basic cardboard holders with clear windows work for most coins, while more valuable pieces deserve rigid plastic holders that provide superior protection. Keep stored coins in stable environments away from extreme temperatures, humidity, and air pollution that accelerate deterioration. A cool, dry location like a closet shelf typically provides adequate conditions for long-term storage.
Consider photographing coins before storing them, capturing both sides in good lighting for insurance and reference purposes. Document where and when you acquired pieces, as provenance sometimes affects value.