Dime Coin Value Checker

The U.S. dime, worth just ten cents, is the smallest coin in circulation both in size and weight—but don’t let its modest appearance fool you. It carries more than two centuries of American history, innovation, and artistry. From its silver origins in the late 18th century to the modern Roosevelt dime, this tiny coin has undergone a significant evolution in design and purpose, earning a prominent place in numismatics.

Overview of the U.S. Dime

• Value: 10 cents ($0.10)
  
• Diameter: 17.91 mm (smallest U.S. coin in circulation)
  
• Composition: Varies by era (silver to clad)
  
• First minted: 1796

The Origins of the Dime

The term “dime” comes from the Latin word decimus, meaning “tenth part.” In 1792, the Coinage Act authorized the production of various silver coins, including the dime. However, the first actual dime wasn’t struck until 1796.

These early dimes were composed of 89.24% silver and 10.76% copper—a standard that lasted for decades. Because of their small size and silver content, dimes were both practical for commerce and attractive to early Americans.

Draped Bust Dime (1796–1807)

The first U.S. dime featured the Draped Bust design by Robert Scot. The obverse showed Lady Liberty with flowing hair and a draped bust, inspired by classical figures. The reverse displayed a small eagle, later changed to a heraldic eagle.

This series is notable for its rarity. The 1796 and 1797 issues had limited mintages, making them prized collector pieces today.

Capped Bust Dime (1809–1837)

After a brief hiatus, dime production resumed in 1809 with the Capped Bust design by John Reich. Liberty now wore a cloth cap, and the reverse featured a more robust eagle clutching arrows and an olive branch.

These coins reflect the maturing identity of American coinage. They also mark an era of increasing mechanical consistency in coin production.

Seated Liberty Dime (1837–1891)

Christian Gobrecht’s Seated Liberty design marked a dramatic visual change. Liberty now sat on a rock, holding a shield and a pole with a liberty cap. This design was used across multiple denominations during the mid-19th century.

Several variations exist within this series:

• No Stars (1837–1838)
  
• Stars on Obverse (1838–1853)
  
• Arrows at Date (1853–1855) for weight change
  
• Legend on Obverse (1860–1891)
  

The Civil War and post-war years also affected mintage and circulation, adding further historical interest to this period.

Barber Dime (1892–1916)

Named after its designer Charles E. Barber, the Barber dime featured Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap and laurel wreath. The reverse displayed a simple wreath encircling the denomination.

Though less artistic than some other designs, the Barber dime is loved for its consistency and strong strike. One legendary rarity from this series is the 1894-S Barber dime—only 24 were minted, and just a handful survive. One specimen sold for nearly $2 million.

Mercury Dime (1916–1945)

One of the most iconic designs in American coinage, the Mercury dime was actually not intended to depict the Roman god Mercury. Designed by Adolph A. Weinman, the coin portrays Liberty wearing a winged cap—symbolizing freedom of thought.

The reverse features a fasces and olive branch, representing strength and peace. These dimes were 90% silver and 10% copper.

Collectors cherish this series for its beauty and affordability. Key dates include:

• 1916-D (very low mintage)
  
• 1942/1 and 1942/1-D overdate errors
  

Roosevelt Dime (1946–Present)

Following President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s death in 1945, the U.S. Mint quickly introduced a new dime to honor him—especially significant due to his efforts to combat polio through the March of Dimes campaign.

Designed by John R. Sinnock, the Roosevelt dime features a profile of FDR on the obverse and a torch, olive branch, and oak branch on the reverse, symbolizing liberty, peace, and strength.

From 1946 to 1964, these dimes continued to be made of 90% silver. In 1965, due to rising silver prices, the Mint switched to a clad composition of copper and nickel—a standard that remains today.

The Silver-Clad Shift and Modern Issues

The Coinage Act of 1965 marked the end of circulating silver dimes. The clad version consists of a pure copper core sandwiched between two layers of copper-nickel alloy. While this change was practical, it also marked the end of an era for silver coin enthusiasts.

Today’s Roosevelt dimes have remained largely unchanged in design, but their mint marks and conditions provide ample room for collectors. Notable varieties include:

• 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime (missing mint mark)
  
• 1996-W Dime (West Point Mint, issued only in Mint Sets)
  

Collecting the U.S. Dime

Despite their small size, dimes offer big opportunities for collectors. From early silver issues to modern errors, there’s something for every budget and experience level.

Silver dimes are especially popular due to their bullion value. A full “roll” of 50 silver dimes (pre-1965) is a common way for beginners to start investing in silver.

Additionally, Roosevelt dimes from 1946–1964 are readily available and offer a low-cost path to completing a date-and-mint set.

Notable Errors and Varieties

U.S. dimes are also known for several notable mint errors:

• 1942/1 Mercury Dime: A dramatic overdate caused by reusing a die intended for 1941.
  
• 1982 No-P Roosevelt Dime: A Philadelphia-minted coin without a mint mark—one of the few modern errors with high value.
  
• Misstrikes and Die Breaks: Occasionally, Roosevelt dimes show off-center strikes or die cracks, which are collected by error enthusiasts.
  

A Small Coin with a Big Story

The U.S. dime may be tiny, but its history looms large. From early American silver to tributes to liberty, strength, and presidential leadership, this coin has reflected the changing face of the nation.

Collectors are drawn to dimes for their affordability, rich variety, and deep historical ties. Whether you’re treasure hunting through rolls or chasing that elusive 1894-S, the dime offers endless fascination.

As with all coins, it pays to look closer. Behind every Roosevelt or Mercury lies a story waiting to be discovered—a story of America told ten cents at a time.