1964 Dime Value Guide

The Roosevelt item marks a significant milestone in silver coin production. After 1964, the Mint switched to copper-nickel coins. The item value range on the popular online services is $1.75–$200+ USD.

What Is a 1964 Dime Worth Today?

The 1964 dime value today is primarily influenced by the current market price per ounce of silver. Always check the 1964 dime melt value and this indicator before purchasing, and compare prices in different online stores.

It is always worth a quick double-check pre 1964 dime value if you have a 1965 item or later; it is made of copper-nickel and is only worth 10 cents unless it is a rare mint error. The date is a victory for numismatic hunters.

“For 173 years, we have maintained a system of abundant coins that... is nearly pure silver... The new dime and quarter will... resemble the nickel, but with the further distinction that their copper core will give them a copper edge.”
– Lyndon B. Johnson
Special Message to Congress

Why the 1964 Silver Dime Is Special

Because of rising silver prices and the accumulation of these coins, the Coinage Act of 1965 authorized the removal of silver from items, quarters, and half dollars. As a result, bank vaults were emptied. The Mint produced 1964 dime no mint mark until 1965 and even 1966.

The government used the old date on new blanks to meet demand while new coin-making equipment was being prepared. Because of this schedule, it's safe to say that millions of items exist. Each coin is a piece from the end of the 1796 period.

In contrast to the 1964 D dime value, which contains no precious metals, the date coin retains the 90% silver standard. When dropped, the coin produces a distinct ringing sound due to its composition. 

How much silver is in a 1964 dime? Over time, the silvery hue develops a soft patina. The design, featuring Roosevelt after his death, is unique. The reverse features a torch with many memorable details.

Most Valuable 1964 Dime Value Chart

Damaged Junk Silver or heavily worn coins are estimated at $5.15–$5.45 USD. If your item was not discovered in circulation but was part of a set or a high-end collection, the 1964 silver dime value would be different.

The SMS Secret

How much is a 1964 dime worth? The SMS item is the most valuable version of this coin. These were struck with special dies but aren't quite proofs. They are very rare, with very few known to exist.

• SP-66 Grade – $6,500–$9,000

• SP-68 Grade – $20,000+

• PF-67 Philadelphia – $22.50

• PF-69 Philadelphia – $75.00

• PF-70 – $150.00–$250.00

What Makes a 1964 Dime Rare?

• Full Bands (FB)

Is a 1964 dime silver? For uncirculated pieces, the most common path to rarity is the Full Bands designation. This refers to the horizontal lines on the torch on the reverse side of the coin. 

On the back of the coin, examine the two sets of horizontal bands on the torch. If the bands are completely separated by a clear, distinct line with no merging, the coin is Full Bands. 

How much is a 1964 silver dime worth? Because pieces were minted in such massive quantities, over 2.2 billion, the dies were often worn down, resulting in mushy details. A crisp, sharp strike is exceptionally hard to find.

• Special Mint Set (SMS)

The SMS gems were not struck for circulation and were not standard proofs. They were likely experimental strikes for the 1965 Special Mint Sets. They have a unique satin finish – not mirror-like like a proof, but sharper and cleaner than a business strike. They have no mint mark. It is estimated that fewer than 50 exist.

1964 Dime Error List

Compared to other errors in coins of this type, this year's is not very different. The table below lists the main anomalies and their descriptions.

D Repunched Mint Marks (RPM)

Since you prioritize technical data, look closely at the D mint mark on the reverse. D over D (North / East / West): You will see a shadow or secondary tail on the letter D.

$7–$50

Minor Anomalies

These are common but popular among hunter numismatists for their distinct looks. Die Cracks or Cuds raised lines of metal where the die cracked. 

$5–$15

Die Clash: Look for faint outlines of the reverse torch on Washington's neck (or vice versa).

$10–$25

Pointed Tail or Blunt Tail

The defect marks a transition between two different master dies used during that final year of silver production. On the "9" in the date, some 1964 proofs have a pointed tail. While a minor design change, sets containing both versions often sell for a small bonus.

• The Pointed Tail (ODV-011)

The tail of the 9 curves down and ends in a sharp, needle-like point. Look at the top of the "1" in the date. The serif (the little flag at the top) is typically longer and more defined.

The "W" Gouge: Curiously, research suggests that the common die gouge found in the "W" of the word "WE" (in the motto In God We Trust) is almost never found on Pointed Tail varieties.

• The Blunt Tail (ODV-012)

The 9: The tail of the 9 is squared off or rectangular at the end. It looks chopped rather than tapered. The serif at the top of the "1" is often shorter or more truncated compared to the Pointed version. The "W" Gouge: This variety frequently displays the small die gouge in the "W" of "WE," a trait carried over from previous years' hubs.

Is a 1964 Dime Worth Anything Today?

Several varieties of this coin are highly prized and popular in the numismatic industry. The list below presents the varieties that are definitely worth considering.

• Full Bands (FB): If the horizontal lines on the torch are completely distinct and separated, the coin is worth a massive bonus.

• Double Die Reverse (DDR): Look for doubling in the words and "UNITED STATES." High-grade error coins can sell for $250–$500.

• Pointed Tail 9: A rare design variety found mostly in Proof sets where the "9" in the date ends in a sharp point. These can double the 1964 dime silver value of a standard proof item.

• 1964 SMS (Special Mint Set): An extremely rare satin-finish coin. If you have one of the few dozen known to exist, it is worth $10,000 to $20,000+.

Quick Collector’s Tip

How to very fast check the Pointed Tail 9 defect? Use the summary checklist:

How to Identify a Valuable 1964 Silver Dime

You should assess the coin's grade. Hold the coin under a direct light source at an angle. A coin that shows no wear on Roosevelt's:

• Hair

• Cheek

• The torch's bands

The item with the details may fall into uncirculated territory. Look for full mint luster – a cartwheel effect that rotates across the surface as the coin tilts. Coins that are completely shiny and untouched require professional examination. Certification increases the value of a 1964 dime, as buyers trust the assessment and guarantees of PCGS or NGC.

Top Places to Buy the Item

If you are looking for anomalies below, you should only buy from reputable auction houses or certified sellers and check the error list:

• MS-67

• Double Die

• Pointed Tail 9

GreatCollections: A top choice for 2026. They have a massive archive of 1964-D items, with recent MS-67 sales ranging from $60 to $1,500+, depending on toning and Full Band status.

Heritage Auctions – the gold standard for elite customers. If you are hunting for a 1964 SMS (Special Mint Set) piece, this is where they appear. On eBay – search for PCGS, NGC, or other grading services and the 1964 dime error list with pictures.

FAQ

Related Coin Value Guides

• 1970 Roosevelt Dime Coin Value
• 1967 Jefferson Nickel Coin Value
• 1971 Silver Dollar Coin Value
• 1966 Penny Coin Value
• 1970 Quarter Coin Value
• 1967 Penny Coin Value