The Rare 1975 No S Proof Dime: Most dimes are nothing more than small pieces of change that barely get a second glance. However, the 1975 No S Proof Dime defies this perception, proving that even a tiny coin can be worth a fortune. In October 2024, one of these incredibly rare dimes sold at auction for a jaw-dropping $506,250—a record-breaking price for a modern U.S. coin.
What makes this particular dime so special? It lacks the “S” mint mark, a crucial identifier for proof coins struck at the San Francisco Mint. With only two known examples in existence, this rare dime is considered a Holy Grail of numismatics. Let’s explore the fascinating history, rarity, and value behind this legendary coin.
Overview of the 1975 No S Proof Dime
| Feature | Details |
| Year of Minting | 1975 |
| Intended Mint | San Francisco |
| Unique Feature | Missing the “S” mint mark |
| Design | Franklin D. Roosevelt on the obverse |
| Original Distribution | Part of over 2.8 million proof sets |
| Known Examples | Only two exist worldwide |
| First Known Purchase | Sold in 1978 for $18,200 |
| 2024 Auction Sale | Sold for $506,250 |
| Previous Record Sale | $456,000 in 2019 |
Why Is the 1975 No S Proof Dime So Valuable?
The 1975 No S Proof Dime stands out due to its minting error—the complete absence of the “S” mint mark. Proof coins are specifically made for collectors and undergo strict quality control, making errors like this extremely rare.
Normally, proof dimes from 1975 were produced at the San Francisco Mint and were supposed to bear the “S” mint mark. However, due to an unknown oversight, at least two dimes were struck without it and were released into circulation as part of proof sets. This small mistake transformed an ordinary dime into one of the most sought-after modern U.S. coins.
A Long Journey to a Record-Breaking Auction
The 1975 No S Proof Dime that made history in 2024 has been through an incredible journey. Originally purchased in 1978 for $18,200, it was kept in a bank vault for over 40 years as a prized possession.
After the original owner passed away, the dime was inherited by his three sisters, who understood its significance and decided to auction it through GreatCollections, a leading rare coin auction house.
When it hit the auction block in October 2024, excitement among collectors soared. Intense bidding drove the price to an astonishing $506,250, setting a new record for a modern proof dime.
Not the First Time This Coin Has Made History
The 1975 No S Proof Dime has repeatedly broken records, proving its lasting value in the numismatic world. The only other known example of this dime has also commanded impressive prices at auction:
- 2011: Sold for $349,600
- 2019: Sold for $456,000
Each time this coin reappears, it gains even more attention, proving that collectors are willing to pay top dollar for this rare treasure.
What Determines the Value of the 1975 No S Proof Dime?
Several factors contribute to the enormous value of this dime:
1. Extreme Rarity
With only two known examples, the 1975 No S Proof Dime is among the rarest modern U.S. coins ever discovered.
2. Minting Error
A missing mint mark on a proof coin is an incredibly rare mistake, making it highly valuable to collectors.
3. Exceptional Condition
The coin was graded as Proof-67 by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), meaning it is in near-perfect condition.
4. Historical Significance
This dime represents a major minting error, making it an important piece of U.S. numismatic history.
5. Collector Demand
Unique coins with minting anomalies always attract serious collectors, increasing their value over time.
Rare Minting Errors: A Hidden Goldmine for Collectors
The 1975 No S Proof Dime is not the only minting error to fetch a fortune. Many error coins have become incredibly valuable over the years, including:
- 1943 Copper Penny – Worth over $1 million, this penny was mistakenly struck in copper instead of steel.
- 1955 Doubled Die Penny – Features a noticeable doubling effect on the date and lettering, making it a favorite among collectors.
- 2000 Sacagawea “Cheerios” Dollar – A special version of this dollar coin has detailed tail feathers, increasing its value to thousands of dollars.
Minting errors like these have consistently shocked the coin-collecting world with their high auction prices.
Could Another 1975 No S Proof Dime Be Found?
Many collectors wonder if there could be more undiscovered examples of the 1975 No S Proof Dime. However, experts believe the chances are slim to none.
Most 1975 proof sets have already been thoroughly examined by collectors. Since only two dimes without the “S” mint mark have surfaced, the likelihood of finding another one is extremely low.
According to Ian Russell, president of GreatCollections, the 1975 No S Proof Dime will likely remain one of the rarest modern U.S. coins for decades to come.
What This Sale Means for Coin Collectors
The sale of this rare dime highlights the unpredictability of numismatics—you never know which coins will become valuable treasures. It also proves that modern coins can hold significant historical and financial value, especially if they contain rare minting errors.
For collectors, this story serves as a reminder to check their collections carefully. Hidden gems like the 1975 No S Proof Dime may still be out there, waiting to be discovered!
FAQs About the 1975 No S Proof Dime
1. What makes the 1975 No S Proof Dime so special?
Its missing “S” mint mark makes it one of the rarest proof dimes ever produced.
2. How many of these dimes exist?
Only two confirmed examples are known today.
3. How much was it originally purchased for?
The coin was first sold in 1978 for $18,200, which is worth approximately $90,000 today when adjusted for inflation.
4. Why do mint marks matter?
Mint marks indicate where a coin was produced. A missing mint mark on a proof coin is an exceptional rarity.
5. Can another one be found?
Experts say it is highly unlikely, as most 1975 proof sets have already been inspected by collectors.
Final Thoughts
The 1975 No S Proof Dime is a numismatic marvel, proving that small errors can lead to big value. Its journey from an unnoticed mistake to a record-breaking auction sale is a testament to the thrill of coin collecting.
Could there be other hidden treasures waiting to be found? If this story has inspired you, take a closer look at your own coin collection—you might be sitting on a fortune!
