The Value of the 1980 Dime: A Collector's Guide

The 1980 dime is a coin that does not usually make headlines but for numismatists and collectors its value can fluctuate based on certain factors. There are commonly circulated 1980 dime value examples, the rarer specimens and even special 1980 dime error list you may have heard about. 

There are various reasons why this coin can hold more than just face value. So, how much is a 1980 dime worth? If you are specifically interested in this topic and in a good coin identifier, this guide will take you through everything you need to know.

A Step Back in History and Design

The coin described is an example of American coinage from the early 80s. It features Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd president of the United States, who passed away in 1945. 

The design was created by artist John R. Sinnock. It had been in use for over three decades by the time the 1980 dime was minted. Roosevelt was chosen because of his leadership during the Great Depression and World War II, and the coin's design symbolizes his successes.

In 1980, however, things were not quite so grand. The year marked an era of upheaval, with significant events like the eruption of Mount St. Helens and the assassination of John Lennon making the headlines. Amid this turmoil, the 1980 dime quietly continued the tradition of Roosevelt's likeness with only little historical weight except for its association with the economic climate of the time.

Like many coins of its era, the 1980 Roosevelt specimen is a clad coin: it has a copper core with a nickel-copper exterior. This blend gives the coin its signature silver-like appearance, though it contains no actual silver. 

Moreover, it is not a 1980 gold dime. The composition of 91.67% copper and 8.33% nickel ensures that its value is quite low. For collectors, its true value is not connected with the metal but with the coin’s rarity, condition and the presence of any errors.

The obverse features Roosevelt’s portrait, with the words "Liberty" and "In God We Trust" inscribed. Below his bust, you will find the year of mintage (1980) and the artist's initials (JS). 

On the reverse, a torch, olive branch and oak branch symbolize peace and unity. The motto "E Pluribus Unum" (Out of Many, One) and "One Dime" are also visible.

Related article: 1964 Quarter.

Mint Marks, Errors, Values: Are 1980 Dimes Worth Anything?

While the coin itself may not be rare, certain characteristics make some dimes worth more than their face value. Among these are mint marks and errors.

1980-P Dime (Philadelphia Mint)

It was minted in Philadelphia, and interestingly, Philadelphia did not apply mintmarks to its coins at that time. 1980 P dime error coins that have been found with mint marks are considered highly unusual, and they may have additional value if they are in mint condition or display other signs of rarity.

1980-D Dime (Denver Mint)

The 1980-D dime, minted in Denver, is another type that collectors seek. 1980 dimes worth money are typically in pristine condition. For example, in MS65 grade, the 1980-D dime value can range around $2.28. Coins with errors or rare features might command higher prices.

1980-S Dime (San Francisco Mint)

It is among the rarer variants, with only about 3.5 million coins minted in San Francisco. Coins minted in San Francisco often have better quality, and a 1980-S dime in PR65 condition can be worth approximately $2.81. These coins are a favorite for collectors who want to complete their Roosevelt collection.

The 1980 Dime Error List: What to Look For

Common errors to keep an eye out for include:

Clipped Planchet: These coins feature a piece missing due to a misfeed in the minting process. A clipped planchet coin in Mint State can fetch up to $30.

Blank Planchet: Sometimes, dimes are struck on a blank piece of metal, resulting in a coin with no design on either side. These are rare and usually cost a few dollars.

Off-Center Strike: Pieces that are struck off-center may have part of the design missing. These coins can cost around $10 to $20. This depends on the severity of the misalignment.

What Is the Real Worth of a 1980 Dime?

So, how much is a 1980 dime worth today? In general, a standard 1980 Roosevelt Dime without any errors or rare mint conditions holds little monetary value. Without silver content, the value is pretty much the same as its face value. However, certain specimens can be found among those in uncirculated condition or with notable errors.

Here are potential values for uncirculated coins in various conditions:

Disclaimer: These prices are estimates and can vary based on the condition, error type and market demand.

The Coin ID Scanner App: A Must-Have for Collectors

To make your coin collecting even easier, check out the Coin ID Scanner app. It can help collectors identify, value and manage their coins with ease. Simply take a photo of your coin, e.g., a 1966 quarter, and the app provides instant data on it. Its user-friendly interface and accurate information make it a valuable tool for casual users and expert collectors.

In conclusion, while a 1980 dime may not be expensive in most cases, there are a few rare exceptions, e.g., in high-grade conditions or with certain errors. You should always be prepared to assess the value of any dime you come across, so we recommend you to download the Coin ID Scanner app!

Sources:

1. https://rarest.org/coins/1980-dime-guide

2. https://www.greysheet.com/prices/item/1980-p-10c-fb-roosevelt-dime