The 1962 Roosevelt Dime: A Coin with Hidden Value

Coins from different periods tell different stories, and their worth does not always come down to their face value only. At first, the 1962 dimes may be considered a regular coin, though this is not particularly true. Beneath their modest exterior, there can be found hidden historical significance, precious metal content, and aesthetics, frequently apparent to collectors only. 

Do you wish to detect rare instances on the spot and know how to distinguish a fine opportunity in the numismatic market? Let us check coin value together and find out which 1962 silver dimes are worth it. 

Brief Overview of the Roosevelt Dime Series

The stories of the dimes are intriguing, for their legacy is rooted in the contributions of the great leaders and events that nations made it possible to overcome. The Roosevelt dime was introduced in 1946 when the US Mint decided that they would replace the Mercury dime with a new design commemorating the late President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Since then, it has become obvious that the monetary sector in the US discovered a new perspective when they could integrate modern, simple in a good sense designs that can highlight national ideals more appropriately. The Roosevelt dime, which was 90% silver until 1964, swiftly became a symbol of the American coinage and remains an iconic piece up until now. 

Although it was widely used because of its convenience and durability, the addition of silver gave it an inherent value that went beyond its 10-cent face. Indeed, the majority of the series' instances are common, yet certain issues, e.g., the 1962 dime, have made it a favorite among numismatists anyway. But why? 

Composition and Specifications

The 1962 Roosevelt dime is a little but important coin that is prized for both its inherent silver content and its design. In fact, these are the first points that can be noted about any unit of currency, so let us turn to its appearance first.

Although it is just a technical overview, the 1962 dime is a historically significant piece. Being one of the last silver dimes minted before the U.S. transitioned to clad coinage in 1965, it is definitely a symbol of the time when precious metals were still in circulation. However, it is not the only factor that defines the 1962 dime value.

Mint Locations and Mint Marks

In the case of 1962 dimes, only two major facilities were responsible for the production of these coins, namely the Philadelphia Mint and the Denver Mint. Each played a significant role in producing millions of dimes that year, but some of the instances are a bit more valued because of their origin and unique characteristics, too. 

As was typical for coins produced at this site at the time, Philadelphia-minted dimes lack the mint mark at all. These units of currency, which had a mintage of 72,450,000 regular pieces and 3,218,019 proof coins, are somewhat widespread and could be easily found in circulation.

In contrast, the Denver Mint was the main source of the Roosevelt dime supply in 1962, having manufactured over 334,948,380 pieces. These can be identified by a little "D" mint mark on the reverse side, located above the torch, to the left of the inscription "ONE".

Designations

Another important feature of these coins is the designations that denote excellent quality or distinctive features. These labels, like "Full Band", "Cameo", or "Deep Cameo", can affect the 1962 silver dime value even more.

• Full Band (FB): Roosevelt dimes with clearly struck reverse details, particularly the horizontal bands on the torch, are designated as Full Band. A coin must bear completely separated bands with unbroken, distinct lines in order to be considered a Full Band.

• Proof (PR): Especially for collectors, there were released proof coins. Proof coins, which are made with the use of polished dies and planchets, can be easily distinguished by their frosted patterns and mirrored fields.

• Cameo: Proof coins that have a striking contrast between the mirrored background and the frosted design features are referred to as cameos. 

• Deep Cameo (DCAM): Deep Cameo instances have deeply frosted features that are put in contrast to highly reflecting fields (the highest level of proof grades).

Value by Type

When the condition, mint marks, and unique characteristics are taken into consideration, one may see the true 1962 Roosevelt dime value, which can vary significantly. Mint State or peculiar Proof grades can sometimes fetch higher prices, and this makes these coins much more desirable.

Anyway, prices are usually subject to fluctuations. Keep up with the market trends so as not to miss updates regarding the value of the 1962 dime. To do so more smoothly, we recommend that you use handy tools like the Coin ID Scanner app. It is a fine instrument to quickly identify coins, detect errors, navigate the market, communicate with other enthusiasts, and, what is also important, keep track of current prices, too. Such a great thing to try.

Start exploring your collection today and discover the hidden treasures to cherish!

Sources: 

1. https://www.pcgs.com/coinfacts/coin/1962-10c/5124 

2. https://kids.usmint.gov/about-the-mint/dime