1964 Roosevelt Dime Value: A Collector’s Silver Dream

What makes a 1964 dime rare? This question remains a hot topic among numismatists and silver investors. You may have heard that it is the last circulating dime struck with 90% silver. This coin carries both historical significance and intrinsic metal value. 

But beyond its melt worth, certain rare variations, mint errors and high-grade specimens command staggering prices in today’s market. So, how much is a 1964 dime worth? And why is a coin value identifier advisable for you in this regard? 

First of all, here is the numismatic breakdown of the coin discussed:

The History of the Coin

The Roosevelt Dime Collection 1946 to 1964 represents a great moment in U.S. coinage. The first coin of this type was introduced in 1946. It replaced the Mercury Dime and was designed to honor President Franklin D. Roosevelt—a leader who guided America through both the Great Depression and World War II. Roosevelt’s involvement in founding the March of Dimes was another reason for the choice of placing him on the ten-cent coin.

By the early 1960s, an increase in silver prices led to widespread hoarding of silver coins. As a response, the U.S. Mint transitioned to clad coinage in 1965. However, to prevent coin shortages, Congress allowed the continued minting of the coins with the 1964 date well into 1966. This is what makes a 1964 dime rare—not just its silver content but also the extended minting period, high mintage and rare varieties.

Design & Composition

Obverse (Front) Design

The obverse features a left-facing portrait of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, designed by John R. Sinnock. Key elements include:

• “LIBERTY” inscribed along the left rim;

• “IN GOD WE TRUST” below Roosevelt’s chin;

• “1964” positioned on the right;

• The designer’s initials, JS, at the truncation of Roosevelt’s neck—these initials once sparked controversy as they were mistakenly believed to stand for Joseph Stalin.

Related article: Draped Bust Quarter Value Guide.

Reverse (Back) Design

The reverse design features:

• A blazing torch at the center as a symbol of liberty;

• An olive branch to the left = peace;

• An oak branch to the right, signifying strength and independence;

• The motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM” (Latin for "Out of Many, One") across the center.

These design elements make the Roosevelt coin one of the most recognizable ones in American history.

Mint Marks & Values

Philadelphia Mint (No Mint Mark)

The Philadelphia Mint produced 929,360,000 Roosevelt coins in 1964—nearly a billion coins! These coins lack a mint mark and are readily available in circulated condition. However, higher-grade specimens with sharp strikes—especially those with Full Band details on the torch—can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

• Circulated 1964 Dime Value No Mint Mark: ~$2.65

• MS60: ~$3.50

• MS67 Full Band: $2,350 (highest recorded auction sale)

Denver Mint (D Mint Mark)

The Denver Mint struck 1,357,517,180 coins, the largest mintage for the Roosevelt silver dime series.

• Circulated 1964 D Dime Value: ~$2.65

• MS60: ~$4

• MS67 Full Band: $6,495 (record auction sale)

Special Mint Set (SMS) Dimes

Among the rarest dimes from 1964 are the SMS ones, minted in small numbers—possibly as experimental strikes for the 1965 SMS series. Fewer than 50 examples are known today. The 1964 SMS dime is highly coveted, with one graded SP68 fetching $20,000.

• SP64: ~$4,000

• SP68: $20,000+

1964 Dime Errors & Their Value

The 1964 dime error list with pictures (if any) includes a lot of interesting examples that can significantly increase a coin’s worth. Here are some of them:

Doubled Die Obverse (DDO): The most sought-after error. It features noticeable doubling on inscriptions like “IN GOD WE TRUST” and the date. A PF68 specimen was auctioned for $1,100.

Reverse Die Cap: A striking issue causing a bottle-cap-like appearance on the reverse. One MS66 Full Band example sold for $400.

Struck-Through Edge: This error occurs when the coin’s reeded edge is struck onto another planchet. It creates a partial reeded design across the coin. One AU58 example was auctioned for $350.

1964 Silver Dime Value Chart

Disclaimer: All the prices are average and may change because of different factors, e.g., demand, condition and market trends. We recommend that you always consult professionals before any numismatic purchase. 

How Much Silver Is in a 1964 Dime?

The 1964 dime silver content consists of 90% silver and 10% copper, translating to 0.0723 troy ounces of silver. This is essential when calculating the melt value, which fluctuates with silver prices.

If you want to compare this with how much silver is in a dime before 1964, the answer remains the same—dimes struck between 1796 and 1964 contained 90% silver. This is why silver dime value 1964 remains higher than face value, even for worn examples.

1964 Dime Value Today: Investment or Not?

For casual collectors and investors alike, the value of 1964 dime coins depends on silver content, rarity, condition and demand. Here is a quick look at today’s estimated values:

• Circulated Condition: $2.65 (silver melt value)

• MS60: $3.50

• MS67 Full Band: Up to $65

• Proof (PF70): $150 - $5,000

• 1964 SMS (SP68): $20,000+

With silver prices fluctuating, the total price can change. That is why you should also make research when assessing your specimens. 

Related article: What’s a Barber Quarter Worth?

Scan & Identify Your Coin

As you can see the value of your coin depends on condition, errors and rarity. If you want to quickly check your coin’s worth, the best option is modern technology. The Coin ID Scanner app is our piece of advice for you. It allows collectors to instantly scan, grade and appraise their coins. With it, you will determine whether you have a common dime or a $20,000 rarity.

So, before you spend that 1964 silver specimen, take a closer look... It might just be worth far more than ten cents!

Sources:

1. https://www.coinstudy.com/1964-dime-value.html

2. https://bullionexchanges.com/coin-info/1946-1964-silver-roosevelt-dime