A simple ten-cent coin, often dismissed as loose change, has taken the numismatic world by storm. The Rare 1975 “No S” Proof Dime, sold for an astonishing $506,250 in October 2024, becoming one of the most sought-after coins in U.S. history.
This coin’s value lies not in its design but in a unique minting anomaly—the absence of the “S” mint mark, a feature that should have identified its origin at the San Francisco Mint. With only two examples known to exist, it stands as a true “Holy Grail” for collectors.
Overview Of The Rare 1975 “No S” Proof Dime
The Rare 1975 “No S” Proof Dime is a masterpiece of history, chance, and collector intrigue. Below is an overview of its most notable features:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year of Minting | 1975 |
| Mint | San Francisco (intended) |
| Unique Feature | Missing the “S” mint mark |
| Design | Portrait of Franklin D. Roosevelt |
| Distribution | Part of 2.8 million proof sets |
| Known Examples | Only two confirmed worldwide |
| Original Purchase | $18,200 in 1978 |
| Sale Price (2024) | $506,250 |
| Previous Record | $456,000 (2019) |
What Makes The 1975 “No S” Proof Dime Special?
The defining characteristic of this dime is its missing “S” mint mark, a critical identifier for proof coins minted at the San Francisco Mint. Mint marks are essential for distinguishing coins’ origins, with “S” denoting San Francisco, “D” for Denver, and “P” for Philadelphia.
In 1975, a production error caused two proof dimes to be struck without the “S” mint mark. These coins escaped the rigorous quality control expected for proof sets, making them anomalies of immense value.
From Vault To Record-Breaking Auction
The journey of the Rare 1975 “No S” Proof Dime is a testament to patience and foresight. Purchased in 1978 for $18,200, this coin remained hidden in a bank vault for over four decades, cherished by a collector who understood its significance.
After the collector’s passing, the coin was consigned to GreatCollections Auction House in 2024 by his family. The auction drew intense interest, with numismatists worldwide vying for this prized possession. Ultimately, it fetched an impressive $506,250, breaking all previous records for this coin.
Not Its First Moment Of Fame
The 2024 sale is not the first time this coin made headlines. The only other known example has twice set records at auction:
- 2011: Sold for $349,600
- 2019: Sold for $456,000
Each sale highlights the growing fascination and appreciation for this rare coin.
Factors Driving Its Value
The staggering value of the Rare 1975 “No S” Proof Dime can be attributed to several factors:
- Rarity: With just two examples known, it is among the rarest modern U.S. coins.
- Minting Error: The absence of the “S” mint mark is an extraordinary anomaly.
- Condition: Graded Proof-67 by PCGS, its impeccable preservation enhances its worth.
- Historical Significance: A symbol of minting precision gone awry, it captures the imagination of collectors.
- Demand: Coins with unique errors consistently command high premiums in the marketplace.
Minting Errors: A Collector’s Treasure
Minting errors hold a special allure for collectors because they represent rare deviations from perfection. Proof coins, in particular, are designed with exacting standards for collectors, making any flaw especially significant.
The Rare 1975 “No S” Proof Dime epitomizes this phenomenon. As Ian Russell, President of GreatCollections, remarked, the likelihood of discovering another example is exceedingly slim, given that most 1975 proof sets have been meticulously examined.
Impact On The Coin-Collecting World
The sale of this dime has reignited interest in modern numismatics, proving that even relatively recent coins can achieve astronomical values. This event underscores the importance of preserving and examining older coins, as hidden treasures may still exist in forgotten collections.
The Rare 1975 “No S” Proof Dime is a shining example of how a small error can lead to extraordinary value. As one of only two known specimens, this coin has carved its place in numismatic history. Its recent sale for $506,250 serves as a powerful reminder of the excitement and unpredictability inherent in coin collecting.
What is the Rare 1975 “No S” Proof Dime?
It is a ten-cent coin struck in 1975 without the “S” mint mark intended for proof coins minted at the San Francisco Mint. Only two examples are known to exist.
Why is the “S” mint mark significant?
Mint marks identify the coin’s production facility. The missing “S” on this proof coin represents a unique minting error.
How much did the coin sell for at auction?
In October 2024, the Rare 1975 “No S” Proof Dime sold for an incredible $506,250.
