1985 Roosevelt Dime Value: Are There Any Rare Varieties?

The 1985 United States dime is one of those coins you might overlook in your change jar. But collectors know that sometimes the most valuable coins aren’t the oldest—they’re the sharpest, rarest, or just plain odd. 

So is the 1985 dime worth anything? That depends. To figure out the cost of your coin collection, you may want to download a coin identifier app.

Whether you have a 1985 P or a 1985 D dimes, condition and minting Roosevelt dime errors are what make the difference. Rare 1985 dime error lists with pictures circulating among collectors to help identify valuable versions. Do 1985 dimes worth any money? This guide breaks it all down—from everyday face-value coins to premium Full Bands specimens and mint mistakes worth hundreds. 

1985 Roosevelt Dime Overview

The 1985 Roosevelt belongs to the copper-nickel clad layer series. A standard for U.S. since silver hasn't been in circulation since 1965. While most 1985 coins are common, some versions of coins excite collectors.

Quick facts about the dime 1985 P and D:

The coin has the classic design, but it's the quirks—weak strikes or doubled dies that make certain pieces stand out in the 1985 dime error list.

How Much Is a 1985 Coin Worth?

How much people will give for this coin depends on its condition, quality, and if it has any rare errors. Here's a general value chart:

So how much is a 1985 dime worth? In circulated condition, not much. But in top mint states with a Full Bands designation, the price can skyrocket.

1985 Error List with Pictures

Collectors actively search for a 1985 dime error list with pictures to help identify valuable finds. This coin is pretty simple and may not look valuable, but there is an exception. You can earn more than $1500 if the coin has some errors. Some of the errors are more valuable than the others.

To know what errors you should be looking for you need to consider the list. While not all varieties have confirmed high-value listings, here are some notable examples:

• 1985 D Weak Strike. A common complaint among collectors is weak strike detail, especially on the 1985 D dime. If the torch bands aren’t fully defined, it’s a regular strike. But when they are clear and separate—Full Bands—it’s a premium coin.

• Off-Center Strikes. A classic error, usually selling for $20–$100 depending on how far off the strike is and whether the date is visible.

• Clipped Planchet Errors. If part of the coin’s edge is missing in a clean, curved shape, it’s a clipped planchet. These show up occasionally on the 1985 dime D mint mark and can bring in $10 to $50.

• Double Die Obverse (DDO) or Reverse (DDR). There’s no famous 1985 dime double die, but collectors still report minor doubling. Especially on the 1985 dime P. But it can be some 1985 D dime error value.

• Die Cracks and Cuds. Minor die breaks or cuds on 1985 D dimes may not add huge value but are still fun to collect.

1985 P Error List with Value

If you’re specifically hunting for 1985 P dime errors, or any others, here are some that might appear in your change:

• Die Chip in Roosevelt’s Hair. Minor, adds a few dollars if dramatic.

• Double Rim. Possible machine doubling, but collectible if strong.

• Misaligned Dies. Can create uneven borders; more dramatic = more value.

• Full Bands with MS67 Grade. This 1985 P dime error value is up to $1,400 or more.

Collectors interested in the 1985 P dime error list with pictures often use forums like CoinTalk or PCGS boards to share and compare findings.

1985 D Error List with Value

The Denver Mint is known for slightly better strike consistency, but errors still happen. Notable 1985 D dime error list entries include:

• Weak Strike (No Full Bands). Not a premium on its own but can make Full Bands more desirable.

• Off-Center Errors with Date Visible.  Value increases with off-center percentage

• Misaligned Dies and Broadstrikes. Add visual interest and possible collector premium.

• Clipped Planchets. Similar value to P versions—usually $10–$40. 

• Double Die Obverse. Not officially documented but collector circles discuss this error.

There’s currently no confirmed high-value “holy grail” error for the 1985 D dime, but the potential is always there. That’s part of the thrill.

Rare Varieties: 1985 Gold and 1985 Copper Dimes

Occasionally, you’ll hear about 1985 gold or 1985 copper dimes. Most of these are not actual mint errors but post-mint novelty items. For example:

• 1985 Gold: usually a regular coated in gold or plated for novelty. Not rare and not valuable.

• 1985 Copper: some collectors claim to find a solid copper. If genuine (and not just worn or stained clad), this would be a major mint error, but such examples are unconfirmed.

If you think you’ve found one, it’s worth getting it weighed (a standard dime weighs 2.27g). Anything lighter or heavier than expected may be worth further inspection.

How to Tell if Your 1985 Dime Is Valuable

Here’s a simple checklist for reviewing your 1985 dime P mint mark or D dime:

• Is it uncirculated (no scratches, full luster)?

• Does it have Full Bands on the reverse?

• Is it graded by PCGS or NGC MS66 or higher?

• Do you see any doubling, off-center striking, or rim anomalies?

• Does it match anything in the 1985 dime error list with pictures?

If you answer yes to one or more of these, it’s worth a closer look.

Where to Sell or Grade Your 1985 Dime

• Once you identify a potentially valuable 1985 P or D, you have a few good options:

• PCGS or NGC. Submit for grading if it shows an error. But before that, you may want to read the article about PCGS CoinFacts vs. Coin ID Scanner.

• eBay or GreatCollections: Perfect for selling already-graded coins.

• Local Coin Dealers: Good for quick feedback or cash offers.

• Coin Shows: Multiple dealers in one place = better appraisal opportunities.

• Reddit / CoinTalk Forums: Great for getting free opinions and learning from others.

Grading is usually only worth it for dimes in MS66+ or error coins. A basic circulated 1985 dime, even in nice shape, won't justify the cost.

The Modern Collector’s View on 1985 Dimes

For years, modern clad coins like the 1985 Roosevelt were largely ignored by collectors who focused on older, silver issues. With the rising grading cost, even modern coins are now being taken seriously. Especially those in top condition.

Collectors who specialize in Roosevelt coins often compete in grading registry sets hosted by PCGS or NGC. These sets require each year and mint mark, often in the highest grade available. That’s where coins like the 1985 P dime in MS67 with Full Bands become incredibly competitive. 

Only a handful of these coins may exist at that grade level. And collectors will often pay a premium to upgrade their set with the finest example.

This shift in demand means that even coins from the 1980s—once dismissed as too recent—are now getting microscope-level attention. The hunt is no longer just about rare dates or vintage errors. It’s about sharpness, strike quality, and grade rarity. 

The difference between MS66 and MS67 might only be a few small marks or slightly stronger luster.But the value difference is dramatic, especially when we find Full Bands. 

Tips for Finding a High-Value 1985 Dime

If you’re checking coins at home or sorting through a collection, here are a few detailed tips to help you identify something worth pulling aside:

• Inspect Under Good Lighting. Use an LED desk lamp and magnifier (10x) to examine the coin’s surface. Look for original mint luster, smooth fields, and absence of contact marks.

• Focus on the Torch Bands. On the reverse, look closely at the torch’s horizontal bands. Are they sharply defined and clearly separated? If yes, you may have a Full Bands example.

• Weigh It. An accurate digital scale can help detect planchet anomalies. A standard should weigh exactly 2.27 grams. Deviations could suggest a striking error or wrong planchet.

• Search Rolls and Old Jars. Many uncirculated 1985 dimes are hiding in mint sets, original rolls, or even forgotten desk drawers. Sharp examples have likely never been touched.

Most dimes from this year are still worth only face value in worn condition, but things change fast with the right strike or grade. To not worsen the coin’s condition, read the Gear Up: The Best Coin Collecting Supplies to Own article. Both the 1985 D and the 1985 P dimes can be valuable if they meet specific collector criteria.

Final Thoughts: Are 1985 Dimes Worth Collecting?

So—how much is a 1985 D dime worth? What about the 1985 P dime value? Most are still worth just ten cents, but if you’ve got one in high grade, with Full Bands, or with an unusual mint error, the value goes up fast.

There may not be a famous variety like in earlier or silver years, but modern coins can still surprise. Full Bands in top condition bring in real money. Professionals still bild error lists. And the value could be tomorrow’s collector prize.

Even if you don’t strike gold (or copper), you can build a set of Roosevelt dimes with every mint and year. It should remain an accessible and rewarding pursuit.

Related Coin Value Guides:

• How Much Is a Dime Worth?
• 1967 Roosevelt Dime Coin Value
• 1946 Roosevelt Dime Coin Value
• 1962 Roosevelt Dime Coin Value
• 1964 Roosevelt Dime Coin Value
• 1942 Mercury Dime Coin Value
• 1965 Dime Coin Value
• 1977 Dime Coin Value