In the fascinating world of coin collecting, sometimes what appears to be ordinary can hold extraordinary value. It is highly recommended to take a second or even a third look at the change you receive before spending it or letting it slip away into the depths of your pocket or a forgotten corner of your home.
One of those pieces might be worth a fortune. This is precisely the case with the 1996 Roosevelt Dime, minted at the West Point Mint (bearing the “W” mint mark). This coin can be worth much more than its face value in today’s market, especially if you find one and later auction it among specialists in the field.
The 1996 Roosevelt Dime was issued to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Roosevelt Dime series, which honors President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Although these coins were not intended for general circulation, they were included in special sets from the United States Mint.
- Mint Mark: The “W” mint mark indicates it was minted at the West Point Mint, making it a unique and rare find.
- Commemorative Issue: It marks the 50th anniversary of the Roosevelt Dime series.
- Collector’s Item: These coins were included in special mint sets, adding to their desirability among collectors.
If you happen to come across a 1996 Roosevelt Dime, it could be a valuable addition to your collection. So, the next time you receive change, take a moment to inspect it closely—you might just discover a hidden treasure.
The Unique Story of 1996 Roosevelt Dimes
In 1996, approximately 1.5 million Roosevelt Dimes were minted at West Point. This relatively low mintage makes these coins quite special among collectors. Their limited quantity significantly boosts their value in the numismatic world.
Interestingly, many people might not be aware of the special significance of these coins being minted at West Point. Franklin D. Roosevelt, the prominent politician featured on these dimes, hailed from Hyde Park, New York.
Before becoming the only U.S. president to serve four terms, he was the governor of New York State. This unique connection adds an extra layer of historical value to the 1996 Roosevelt Dimes.
Why Are These Dimes Special?
- Limited Mintage: Only 1.5 million were minted, making them rarer than other dimes in the series.
- Historical Significance: Minted at West Point, closely tied to Roosevelt’s life and career.
- Collector’s Value: Their scarcity and historical context make them highly sought after by collectors.
Despite their collectible status, many of these dimes were still used in everyday transactions due to their low face value. This means you might just stumble upon one in your change or even find one lying on the street, although the chances are slim. Keep your eyes peeled!
Discover More
Considering all that has been mentioned so far, it’s understandable that a commemorative piece can be worth a significant amount of money among collectors. However, its value will largely depend on its condition, among other details.
According to experts, a well-preserved coin can be worth hundreds of dollars. While it may not seem like a lot of money, selling it can be a highly profitable venture, especially since, in theory, these coins only have a face value of ten cents.
How Much Are Roosevelt Dime Coins Worth?
The value of a 1996-W Roosevelt dime can vary significantly depending on its state of preservation. For instance:
- 1996-W Roosevelt dime (MS-64): Up to $14
- 1996-W Roosevelt dime (MS-65): Up to $16
- 1996-W Roosevelt dime (MS-69): Up to $425
This highlights the importance of condition when determining the value of collectible coins. Even a small difference in preservation can greatly impact the price.