Rare 1975 ‘No S’ Dime Fetches $506,250 at Auction: A Numismatic Marvel

In a remarkable event for coin collectors and enthusiasts, a 1975 Roosevelt dime, distinguished by the absence of the ‘S’ mint mark, was sold for an astounding $506,250 at a recent auction. This sale underscores the immense value that rare mint errors can hold in the numismatic community.

The Significance of the ‘No S’ Mint Mark

Typically, coins minted in San Francisco bear an ‘S’ mint mark. However, in 1975, an error led to the production of a few proof dimes without this distinguishing mark. Such anomalies are exceptionally rare, with only two known examples of the 1975 ‘No S’ proof dime in existence. This rarity significantly amplifies their desirability and value among collectors.

Details of the Auction

The auction, conducted by GreatCollections, concluded on October 27, 2024. The dime, graded as PCGS Proof-67 and approved by the Certified Acceptance Corporation (CAC), attracted over 200 bids, reflecting its high demand. The final sale price of $506,250 set a new record for this particular coin.

Historical Context and Discovery

In 1975, the San Francisco Mint produced approximately 2.84 million proof sets, each containing coins with the ‘S’ mint mark. However, two dimes were discovered without this mark. Both were found in California and sold to dealer F.J. Vollmer in 1978 and 1979.

The first of these was purchased by an Ohio collector and his mother for $18,200 in 1978, a significant investment at the time. They viewed the coin as a financial safety net, storing it securely for decades.

Previous Sales and Provenance

The second known example of the 1975 ‘No S’ dime has appeared at auction twice. In 2011, it sold for $349,600, and in 2019, it fetched $456,000. These sales highlight the coin’s escalating value over time. The recent sale of the first example for over half a million dollars further cements its status as a modern numismatic rarity.

Attribute	Details
Year of Minting	1975
Mint Location	San Francisco
Typical Mint Mark	‘S’
Error	Missing ‘S’ mint mark
Number of Known Examples	2
Recent Auction Price	$506,250 (October 27, 2024)
Grading	PCGS Proof-67, CAC approved
Previous Auction Prices	$349,600 (2011), $456,000 (2019)

The Role of GreatCollections

GreatCollections, an auction house based in Irvine, California, specializes in certified coins and banknotes. Their expertise in handling rare and valuable coins has made them a trusted platform for collectors. The successful sale of the 1975 ‘No S’ dime at a record price underscores their prominence in the numismatic auction industry.

Implications for Collectors

This sale serves as a reminder of the potential value hidden in mint errors and rare coins. Collectors are encouraged to meticulously examine their collections, as even small anomalies can lead to significant financial rewards. The 1975 ‘No S’ dime exemplifies how rarity and historical significance can combine to create a highly coveted collectible.

Conclusion

The $506,250 sale of the 1975 ‘No S’ dime highlights the enduring allure of numismatics and the extraordinary value that rare mint errors can achieve. As collectors continue to seek out unique pieces, the numismatic market remains a dynamic and exciting field.

FAQs

What makes the 1975 ‘No S’ dime so valuable?

The coin’s value stems from its rarity; only two examples are known to exist without the ‘S’ mint mark, making it a highly sought-after mint error.

How was the missing ‘S’ mint mark discovered?

Collectors identified the absence of the ‘S’ mint mark in two proof sets produced by the San Francisco Mint in 1975, leading to the discovery of this rare error.

What is the significance of the ‘S’ mint mark?

The ‘S’ mint mark indicates that a coin was produced at the San Francisco Mint. Its absence on a coin intended to bear it signifies a minting error.

Have other coins with missing mint marks been found?

Yes, there have been other instances of coins missing their mint marks, but the 1975 ‘No S’ dime is among the rarest and most valuable.

Where can collectors find more information about rare coins?

Collectors can consult numismatic publications, join coin collector organizations, and participate in coin shows and auctions to learn more about rare coins.