Imagine finding a dime that’s worth much more than just ten cents—in fact, up to $18,000! The rare 1968 “No S” Dime, known for its unique blue color and lack of the “S” mintmark, has become a sought-after piece for coin collectors. In this article, we’ll explore what makes this dime so special, how to spot it, and why it’s so valuable to collectors.
What Is the 1968 “No S” Blue Dime?
The 1968 “No S” Blue Dime is a proof coin, meaning it was specially made for collectors with a sharp, shiny finish. This dime was supposed to have an “S” mintmark because it was created at the San Francisco Mint. However, due to a rare minting error, some of these coins left the mint without this important mark. These dimes also have a unique powder blue color, which comes from their 75% copper and 25% nickel composition, adding to their distinct look and appeal.
Why Is the 1968 “No S” Dime So Rare?
Only around 40 copies of the 1968 “No S” Dime are known to exist, making it one of the rarest modern coins. This rarity is partly due to its unusual “No S” mintmark error. Collectors love coins that have something special or unique about them, and the missing “S” on this dime makes it a prized piece in the numismatic (coin collecting) world.
| Key Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Missing Mintmark | Lacks the “S” mark from the San Francisco Mint |
| Proof Coin | Specially struck for collectors, not circulation |
| Distinct Color | Powder blue hue due to copper-nickel mix |
| Estimated Value | $18,000 (depending on condition and demand) |
What Makes the 1968 “No S” Dime Valuable?
The value of this dime comes from a few different factors. Here’s a look at what influences its price:
- Condition: Coins in mint (perfect) condition, without scratches or wear, are worth the most.
- Rarity: The fewer coins there are, the more collectors want them, which raises their price.
- Unique Features: The missing “S” mintmark and the special blue color add to its rarity and make it more interesting to collectors.
Because of these factors, the 1968 “No S” Dime can fetch high prices at auction. In January 2024, a well-preserved copy sold for an impressive $18,000!
| Factor | Effect on Value |
|---|---|
| Condition | Higher condition equals higher value |
| Rarity | Only around 40 known, increasing collector demand |
| Unique Features | No mintmark and blue tint make it desirable |
How Does the 1968 “No S” Dime Compare to Other “No S” Dimes?
The 1968 “No S” Dime isn’t the only “No S” proof dime with a high value. There are other “No S” proof coins from different years that collectors also love, but each one has a unique value based on rarity and demand.
| Year | Mintmark Omission | Approximate Sale Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1968 | S | $18,000 |
| 1970 | S | $24,000 |
| 1975 | S | $456,000 |
| 1983 | S | $15,000 |
| 1990 | S | $20,000 |
Among these coins, the 1975 “No S” Dime is the most valuable, with one sold for as much as $456,000. These “No S” dimes are all special because each one is an example of a rare minting error that shouldn’t have happened.
How Can You Tell if You Have the 1968 “No S” Dime?
If you think you might have this valuable coin, here are some steps to help you identify it:
- Check the Date: Look at the front of the dime to make sure it says “1968.”
- Look for the Mintmark: There should be no “S” on the coin. If there’s an “S” or any other mintmark, it’s not the rare version.
- Check the Condition: The better shape the coin is in, the higher its value.
- Notice the Color: It should have a powder blue tint, which gives it a distinct look.
If you find a coin that matches these features, it’s worth having it professionally evaluated. Even if it’s not in perfect condition, it may still hold significant value.
Conclusion
The 1968 “No S” Blue Dime is a rare and exciting discovery for any coin collector. With only about 40 in circulation and a price tag that can reach up to $18,000, this coin is much more than just spare change. Its unique color, lack of mintmark, and proof quality make it a fascinating piece of U.S. minting history.
Finding one of these dimes can feel like winning a small lottery, so if you have old coins lying around, take a closer look. You just might be holding a piece of history—and a valuable one at that!
FAQ’s
How can I identify the 1968 “No S” Blue Dime?
Check for the year “1968” on the coin and make sure it doesn’t have the “S” mintmark on the front. The coin should also have a unique powder blue hue.
Why is the 1968 “No S” Dime valuable?
Its value comes from its rarity as a mint error, lack of the “S” mintmark, and collector demand. In good condition, it can be worth up to $18,000.
How many 1968 “No S” Blue Dimes exist?
Approximately 40 certified copies of this rare coin are known to exist, making it a highly sought-after item for collectors.