1964 Roosevelt Dime Value: The Last Year of Silver Dimes
As you sort through pocket change or rummage around in an old coin jar, a shiny 1964 Roosevelt dime may catch your eye. But did you know that 1964 marked a pivotal year in U.S. coinage? It was the last year that dimes were made of 90% silver before switching to a copper-nickel composition.
Many people have 1964 dimes, but few realize just how valuable some examples can be. While common in circulated condition, certain 1964 Roosevelt dimes are highly sought-after by collectors and can be worth thousands of dollars. Let‘s dive into the intriguing history and value of this significant little silver coin.
The End of an Era: 1964 Marks the Last Year of Silver Dimes
To understand what makes the 1964 Roosevelt dime special, it helps to look at its historical context. In 1946, shortly after the death of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, the U.S. Mint introduced the Roosevelt dime. The coin honored the late president who led the nation through the Great Depression and World War II.
From 1946 to 1964, Roosevelt dimes were composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, as had been the standard for U.S. dimes since the 1830s. However, the rising price of silver in the early 1960s meant that the metal value of these coins began to exceed their face value. To address this issue, the Mint eliminated silver from dimes starting in 1965.
Thus, 1964 became the last year that circulating U.S. dimes contained precious silver. Nearly 1.4 billion 1964 Roosevelt dimes were minted across all three mints: Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S). Over half a century later, many of these coins remain in circulation, though often well-worn.
1964 Roosevelt Dime Specifications and Design
The 1964 Roosevelt dime retains the same iconic design as those minted from 1946-1963:
- Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
- Weight: 2.5 grams
- Diameter: 17.9 millimeters
- Edge: Reeded
- Obverse Designer: John R. Sinnock
- Reverse Designer: John R. Sinnock
The coin‘s obverse features a left-facing profile portrait of Franklin D. Roosevelt. The word "LIBERTY" arcs along the top rim, while the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" appears to the bottom left. The date 1964 is centered at the bottom.
On the reverse, a torch symbolizing liberty is flanked by an olive branch on the left (signifying peace) and an oak branch on the right (denoting strength and independence). The motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM" stretches across the top, while "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" frames the bottom rim. The denomination "ONE DIME" is stated in the center.
1964 Roosevelt Dime Values and Varieties
Now, the part many collectors and numismatics are most interested in: what are 1964 Roosevelt dimes worth? As with most coins, the value depends on the specific mint mark, condition, and variety. Let‘s break it down:
Circulated and Uncirculated Values by Mint Mark
Circulated 1964 dimes from any mint with minimal to moderate wear are generally worth their silver melt value, currently around $1.60. Uncirculated examples, though, carry premiums over silver value:
- 1964 (P) Brilliant Uncirculated: $2.15 to $5.50
- 1964-D Brilliant Uncirculated: $2.20 to $5.75
- 1964-S Brilliant Uncirculated: $2.30 to $7.00+
The most valuable regular uncirculated 1964 Roosevelt dime listed in the PCGS coin census is a pristine 1964-D graded MS68 Full Bands that sold in 2018 for $6,462. "Full Bands" refers to the visible complete horizontal bands in the center of the torch on the reverse – an attribute that boosts value.
1964 Special Mint Set (SMS) Dime
While the Philadelphia mint did not produce any special or proof coins dated 1964, it did strike coins for Special Mint Sets. Notable for their sharp details and satiny texture, 1964 SMS dimes are quite rare with less than 100 estimated to exist.
The most valuable 1964 SMS Roosevelt dime is one graded SP67 by PCGS that realized $10,200 at auction in 2019 – making it the highest priced 1964 Roosevelt dime overall. Even a 1964 SMS graded SP65 took $2,880 at a 2020 sale.
Error Coins and Varieties
Many collectors avidly seek out 1964 Roosevelt dime errors and varieties. Some of the most notable include:
- 1964-D struck on a silver 3-cent planchet, MS63 – Sold for $6,462 in 2014
- 1964-D doubled die obverse, AU58 – Sold for $1,410 in 2019
- 1964 embossed ‘S‘ reverse die break, MS64 – Sold for $763 in 2013
A variety of less drastic doubled dies, repunched mint marks, and die breaks exist that can boost a 1964 dime‘s value into the hundreds of dollars. Truly dramatic errors like off-center strikes, multiple strike rotations, and fold-over strikes are seldom seen but highly coveted.
Collecting and Investing in 1964 Roosevelt Dimes
With its 90% silver composition, pleasing design, and some scarce varieties, the 1964 Roosevelt dime is popular with both collectors and precious metals investors. For type set collectors, a single well-struck uncirculated example will suffice. Specialists focus on collecting the series by mint mark and varieties.
When buying uncirculated 1964 Roosevelt dimes, look for pieces with full luster, no distracting marks or spots, and sharp design details. High-grade certified examples offer confidence but come with premiums. Be wary of dipping or cleaning to artificially brighten coins.
The series offers some potential as a silver bullion play. However, it‘s vital to consider the numismatic premiums you may pay over spot price and factor in a longer hold time. True rare varieties in top condition have greater upside but require substantial initial investment.
In Summary
The 1964 Roosevelt dime may seem ordinary at first glance, but it represents a watershed moment in U.S. coinage history as the last 90% silver dime issued for circulation. While decidedly common in lower circulated grades, exceptional uncirculated specimens, rare varieties, and dramatic errors can achieve impressive prices.
Whether you appreciate it as a collectible key date, cherish its nostalgic 1960s charm, or hold it for its intrinsic silver value, the 1964 Roosevelt dime has earned an enduring place in the hearts of coin collectors and enthusiasts. So the next time you come across a 1964 dime, take a moment to appreciate its history and check for that treasured pristine surface, scarce mint mark, or elusive error that could make it worth far more than ten cents.
