1966 Dime Coins: Why Some Are More Valuable Than Others

If you have found a 1966 dime in your pocket or collection, you might be wondering, "How much is a 1966 dime worth?" This seemingly ordinary coin is really interesting for many numismatists, especially when it comes to its value of 1966 dime in today’s market. 

Today we are going to tell you more about the details of the 1966 Roosevelt dime value, its history, design, and how certain characteristics—like mint marks or errors—can influence its price.

Wait for the conclusion, as you will find out which coin identifier by picture can make your collecting experience easier and more interesting. 

A Brief History

The history is connected with President Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd President of the United States. Roosevelt’s visage commemorates his role in American history, particularly his leadership during the Great Depression and World War II. After his death in 1945, the U.S. Mint decided to honor his memory, and the Roosevelt dime was introduced in 1946 (64th anniversary of his birth).

The Roosevelt series was meant to be a lasting example. However, the 1966 dime marks a turning point in its composition. Prior to 1965, dimes were composed of 90% silver, but by 1966, the U.S. Mint came to a copper-nickel clad composition. This change led to a lower 1966 dime value, especially since these newer coins did not carry the precious metal content of their predecessors.

Moreover, all 1966 dimes were minted at the Philadelphia Mint. So, they have no mint mark—a characteristic that can influence their 1966 dime value no mint mark. The absence of a mint mark is a distinguishing feature that can be important when evaluating this coin.

Design and Composition

The coin shows the profile of Franklin D. Roosevelt on its obverse. The Roosevelt design was crafted by John R. Sinnock. The president’s face is looking left, with the word LIBERTY inscribed above and IN GOD WE TRUST below. Sinnock’s initials, JS, appear under Roosevelt's chin. 

The coin is notable for being a smaller one, measuring just 17.9 mm in diameter and 2.27 grams in weight. Its composition of copper and nickel gives it a distinct sheen.

On the reverse, you will find a torch flanked by an olive branch on the left and an oak branch on the right—symbols of peace and strength. The inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA arches over the top, with E PLURIBUS UNUM and the denomination ONE DIME positioned below. 

Related article: 1951 Wheat Penny Value.

The Value of the 1966 Dime

So, is a 1966 dime worth anything beyond its face value? The answer depends on several factors: its grade, potential errors and its mint state condition.

1966 P dime value typically refers to the coins minted at the Philadelphia Mint. All coins of this type were struck at Philadelphia, so they carry no mint mark. These are common in circulation, but certain 1966 dime errors and special strike types can increase their value.

1966 dime silver content is also worth noting. While the 1966 coin no longer contains silver, collectors may still find interest in dimes from years prior to 1965, which were made from 90% silver.

As with most coins, the price can vary based on its condition. In general, in uncirculated condition it might cost a few dollars, but coins with rare features like the cheek rare 1966 dime error or those in higher-grade conditions can command much higher prices.

More about the Mint Marks

All coins were minted at the Philadelphia Mint, meaning that 1966 dimes do not feature a mint mark.

The Philadelphia Mint did not place mint marks on coins produced in 1965, 1966 or 1967 due to a temporary policy change. Instead of the usual "D" for Denver or "S" for San Francisco, these ones simply lack any mint mark. 

Key Features:

• No Mint Mark: All 1966 dimes are from the Philadelphia Mint, and none carry the usual mint marks (D for Denver, S for San Francisco).

• Commonality: Due to the absence of mint marks, these are often considered less unique than coins from other years or mints, as they all have a uniform origin.

• Special Mint Set (SMS): Although the majority of 1966 dimes were regular strike coins from Philadelphia, there were also special strikes produced as part of the Special Mint Set (SMS), which collectors sometimes seek out.

What Does This Mean for the Dime 1966 Value?

The value of 1966 dimes is influenced by several factors, but the absence of a mint mark does not necessarily make them rarer or more valuable compared to other years. In fact, the uniformity of these coins (without mint marks) tends to lower their collectible value. 

However, errors and special types—like those found in SMS sets—can still attract higher prices, especially for those in higher grades or with significant defects like the most valuable 1966 dime with 5 on cheek where a number "5" appears on Roosevelt’s cheek.

Disclaimer: Prices are estimates and may vary based on market conditions, coin condition, and the buyer or seller.

1966 Dime Errors

One of the most exciting aspects of coin collecting is the discovery of rare errors that can make a coin much more valuable. Check out any 1966 dime error list with pictures and you will understand why. 

Cheek error refers to a distinctive flaw where an extra image of the number "5" appears on Roosevelt's cheek. This misprint is a result of a misplaced die, which makes the coin incredibly rare and valuable. It can be worth upwards of $2,000 in some cases.

Another error to watch for is the doubled die variety, where the image of LIBERTY or other inscriptions appears double-struck. Coins with this error can be worth anywhere from $50 to $600.

A clipped planchet error occurs when a coin is struck on a piece of metal that was improperly cut. It creates an uneven rim. This flaw can make a coin more valuable - $30-$50 for a well-preserved specimen.

Coin ID Scanner Will Help

If you are uncertain about any other coin in your collection, e.g., a 1956 penny, the Coin ID Scanner app can make everything easier for you. This app uses advanced technology to scan and analyze your coins.

Key features include:

• Instant identification of coins based on image recognition

• Market values

• Ability to keep your collection organized

With tools like the Coin ID Scanner app, it has never been easier to understand your coins together with expanding your collection with confidence.

So, next time you find a 1966 dime in your pocket or collection, try to scan it with such an app. You will know whether you have something valuable or not. 

Sources:

1. https://rarest.org/coins/1966-roosevelt-dime-value-guide

2. https://www.ngccoin.com/coin-explorer/united-states/dimes/roosevelt-dimes