Roosevelt Dime 10c Clad, 1965-Present MS [Type]

Designer: John R. Sinnock. Weight: 2.27 grams. Composition: Outer layers of copper- nickel (.750 copper, .250 nickel) bonded to inner core of pure copper. Diameter: 17.9 mm. Edge: Reeded. Mints: Philadelphia, Denver, San Francisco, West Point.

Key to Collecting: Beginning in 1965 and continuing to this day, Roosevelt dimes have been made in copper-nickel-clad composition. Such coins are both familiar and inexpensive, and finding a choice example can be done at the outset of building a type set. From 1965 to today, well over 150 copper-nickel-clad Roosevelt dime date-andmintmark issues have been produced. For type-set purposes, you can take your time and for face value, you can find a superb gem—or for a modest premium, a dealer can sell you one. Although coins made in our own time are sometimes viewed as ordinary or passé, in actuality, a full set of modern dimes can be quite impressive.

While the majority of dimes of this era are inexpensive, there are several challenges, notably Proofs of 1968, 1970, and 1975, which should have had S mintmarks but don’t because of errors at the Mint. The zinger coin is the 1975, which is worth more than $46,000. This reflects that not all expensive rarities are from many generations ago. More affordable, at about $200, is the 1982 circulation strike that lacks the normal P or D mintmark. While these scarcities and rarities are interesting to contemplate, the majority of collectors will simply opt for one of each basic regular issue—easy enough to acquire and, as noted, impressive when viewed all at once.

For 2026, the Mint is launching a program in honor of the American Semiquincentennial. In addition to a series of commemorative coins and medals, the Mint will produce circulating coins with special one-year-only designs. The dual dates 1776–2026 will be used on all circulating denominations. The cent and the nickel will otherwise retain their original designs. The dime, quarter, and half dollar will feature entirely new motifs based on the denomination’s unique theme; for dimes, that will be “Liberty over Tyranny.”

Aspects of Striking and Appearance: Usually fairly well struck. The clad composition is more resistant to nicks and bagmarks than was the earlier silver alloy.

Proof Coins: Common. Usually well struck and very attractive.