1964 10C Roosevelt Dime
The 1964 Roosevelt Dime holds a significant place within the numismatic community, both for its historical context and its importance to collectors. This coin represents the last year that dimes were minted with a 90% silver composition, marking the end of an era as the United States moved away from silver coinage in subsequent years.
Historical Context
Launched to honor President Franklin D. Roosevelt shortly after his death in 1945, the Roosevelt Dime replaced the Mercury Dime and became a mainstay in everyday commerce. By 1964, with the ongoing coin shortage and rising silver prices, the U.S. Mint produced these coins in substantial numbers. The transition in 1965 to clad coinage—composed of copper and nickel—makes the 1964 dime a nostalgic relic among collectors, a literal piece of silver history.
Mintage and Rarity
The 1964 Roosevelt Dime was minted in both Philadelphia and Denver, with the following production numbers:
- Philadelphia Mint: 929,360,000
- Denver Mint: 1,357,517,180 Given these high mintage numbers, the 1964 dimes are common in circulated conditions, but certain conditions and variants can fetch higher prices due to their scarcity.
Key Variants
1. Proof Coins: High-quality proof coins were also minted in 1964, designed specifically for collectors.
2. Full Bands Designation: Collectors place significant value on coins that have sharp, full bands on the torch, known as the "Full Bands" designation. These are more challenging to find, especially in pristine condition.
Value and Sales
While common in circulated conditions, the 1964 Roosevelt Dime can command a premium in higher grades, especially when designated with Full Bands. For instance, coins graded MS67 Full Bands can sell for hundreds of dollars. As of recent auction reports: - An MS68 (regular strike, non-Full Bands) was sold for approximately $2,291. - A Full Bands MS67 dimes are significantly more valuable, reflecting both the difficulty in finding such pieces and the desirability of sharply struck examples among collectors.
Market Demand
The high mintage means casual collectors can easily acquire common versions, but specialists often seek the finer proofs or rare Full Bands examples, maintaining a steady demand for pristine pieces in the numismatic market.
Additional Information
- PCGS Number: The Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) identifies the 1964 Roosevelt Dime under the number 5244.
- Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
- Diameter: 17.9 mm
- Weight: 2.5 grams
For enthusiasts and investors alike, the 1964 dime offers a blend of historical significance, collectibility, and investment potential, particularly as the value of silver fluctuates. This dime encapsulates an important transition in U.S. coinage history, making it an appealing choice for those interested in mid-20th-century American coins.
