There has been widespread online chatter about a “$3.21 million Roosevelt dime” found in pocket change. However, this specific figure does not match any verified auction record according to trusted numismatic sources. What is real is the sale of the 1975 Proof Roosevelt Dime “No-S” error (struck at the San Francisco Mint without its “S” mint mark) for about $506,250 in October 2024.
This rare “No-S” error is extremely coveted. Only two known examples exist. It used to be part of the 1975 proof sets, with a few escaping that had no “S.”
The Verified Facts vs. Rumors
| Claim | Verified Fact | Misinformation / Rumor |
|---|---|---|
| Find amount | $506,250 is the real amount for the 1975 No-S proof dime sold in 2024. | The $3.21 million number appears to be unverified / exaggerated in many online “news” posts. |
| Coin | 1975 Proof Roosevelt Dime, “No-S” error, graded Proof-67 by PCGS. | Some posts misstate condition, provenance, or say it was found in regular change (which is unlikely for a proof set coin). |
| Rarity | Only two known examples of the 1975 No-S Proof Dime exist. | Claims that many exist “hidden everywhere in change” are not supported. |
| Where found | One coin was in a family vault; the error was discovered in the 1970s. | Claims that it was randomly found in a grocery store change are probably myth or exaggeration. |
Why the 1975 No-S Proof Dime Is So Valuable
- Missing Mint Mark: Proof coins from San Francisco are supposed to have an “S.” The “No-S” error is extremely rare.
- Condition / Grade: The coin sold in 2024 was graded Proof-67, nearly flawless, which dramatically increases value.
- Rarity: As only two are known, demand among collectors is intense.
- Auction History: Previous known sales include one example going for $456,000 in 2019.
Could You Have One?
Here’s what to look for if you think you might have a rare dime:
- Date should be 1975 proof version.
- Check for absence of “S” mint mark (should be proof coin; missing “S” is the error).
- Condition matters: sharp details, minimal wear, perfect surfaces help big time.
- Coin should come from a proof set, not general circulation, because proof coins are specially made.
- Authenticate professionally via a respected grading service (e.g. PCGS or NGC).
Examples of Auction Records (Verified)
| Year | Coin / Error Type | Auction Sale Price |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 1975 Proof “No-S” Roosevelt Dime (Proof-67 condition) | $506,250 |
| 2019 | Same error type, earlier specimen | $456,000 |
While the idea of a $3.21 million dime found in your pocket change sounds thrilling, there’s no credible evidence it actually happened. What is real is the existence of the rare 1975 Proof Roosevelt Dime “No-S” error, one of only two known examples, which sold for approximately $506,250 in 2024 due to its mint mark mistake and superb condition.
If you collect coins, especially proof sets or older coins in good condition, definitely check your Roosevelt dimes carefully—ghosting or absence of mint marks might signal something extraordinary.
FAQs
Is the $3.21 million Roosevelt dime real?
No verified source confirms a sale or discovery for $3.21 million. The confirmed major sale for a 1975 No-S error Roosevelt dime is about $506,250. Rumors of much higher numbers appear in less-reliable sites.
How many of these 1975 No-S proof dimes exist?
Only two known examples are confirmed to exist. Both are from proof sets and both are extremely rare.
Can a 1975 No-S proof dime ever be found in regular pocket change?
It’s highly unlikely. Proof coins are specially made, packaged, and typically do not circulate. Most examples are preserved in sets or collections. Finding one in everyday change is extremely rare.