If you’ve come across a 1968-S Roosevelt Dime in your change jar or an old coin collection, you might be surprised to learn it’s worth anywhere from 10 cents in heavily worn condition to over $50 or more in pristine, uncirculated grades. That little “S” mintmark makes a difference — and for proof versions, the value climbs even higher.
What Makes the 1968-S Dime Different From Other Roosevelt Dimes
The 1968-S Roosevelt Dime was struck at the San Francisco Mint, which used the “S” mintmark you’ll find on the reverse of the coin, just above the torch. In 1968, the San Francisco Mint was primarily producing proof coins — those specially struck, mirror-finish coins made for collectors — rather than regular business-strike coins for everyday circulation.
This means that when most people talk about the 1968-S dime, they’re usually referring to the 1968-S Proof Roosevelt Dime. These were sold directly to collectors in mint proof sets and were never meant to jingle around in your pocket.
If you’ve found a dime with a clean, sharp design and an almost glass-like surface, there’s a good chance you’re holding a proof coin. To get a better sense of what you have, you can use a free coin identifier app right on your phone to quickly confirm the mintmark and coin type before you dig deeper into its value.
1968-S Roosevelt Dime Value by Condition
The value of a 1968-S dime varies quite a bit depending on its condition and whether it’s a proof or a circulation strike. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you figure out what yours might be worth:
| Coin Type | Grade / Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1968-S Proof Dime | PR65 | $3 – $6 |
| 1968-S Proof Dime | PR67 | $10 – $20 |
| 1968-S Proof Dime | PR69 | $40 – $75+ |
| 1968-S Proof Dime (Cameo) | PR69 DCAM | $80 – $150+ |
| 1968-S Business Strike | MS63 | $3 – $8 |
| 1968-S Business Strike | MS66+ | $25 – $60+ |
For a more detailed look at 1968 Roosevelt Dime price data across all mint state grades, it’s worth checking current auction records and certified coin prices to see real-world sold examples.
How to Tell If Your 1968-S Dime Is a Proof
Proof coins are easy to spot once you know what to look for. First, look at the background fields — the flat areas behind Roosevelt’s portrait. On a proof coin, these areas will have a deep, mirror-like shine that almost looks like polished glass.
Second, look at the raised design elements like Roosevelt’s hair and the torch. On a deep cameo proof (DCAM), these areas appear frosty or matte white against the shiny background, creating a dramatic contrast that’s very visually appealing and highly desirable to collectors.
If your coin looks dull, scratched, or just like a regular dime, it might be a circulation strike or a proof that’s been mishandled over the years. Either way, CoinHix is a great tool to scan and grade your coin quickly — the app can help you see how your coin stacks up to certified examples and give you a realistic value range.
Are 1968-S Dimes Worth Keeping or Selling
Honestly, most 1968-S proof dimes in average condition are only worth a few dollars. But that doesn’t mean you should toss them aside. If your coin shows strong cameo contrast or grades out at PR68 or higher, you could be sitting on something worth $50 to $150 — and occasionally more for top-pop certified specimens.
The key is knowing what you have before you sell. Many people unknowingly sell valuable coins for pennies because they don’t take the time to look them up. If you want a full picture of the 1968 dime’s value across all varieties and conditions, a dedicated coin value resource can save you from making a costly mistake.
CoinHix also lets you track your collection’s value over time, which is especially handy if you’re building a Roosevelt Dime series or just curious about what your coin hoard is worth in total.
Tips for Getting the Best Price for Your 1968-S Roosevelt Dime
If you believe your coin is high-grade, consider getting it certified by PCGS or NGC. A third-party grade adds credibility and can significantly increase what a buyer is willing to pay, especially for proof coins in the PR68 and above range.
Selling on platforms like eBay, Heritage Auctions, or through local coin shows are your best options. Always compare recent sold listings, not just asking prices, to get a realistic picture of the market.
And before you do any of that, spend a few minutes with CoinHix to scan your coin and see comparable grades and prices — it’s one of the easiest ways to get a ballpark value without needing to be an expert.
FAQ
Q: How do I know if my 1968-S dime is a proof or a regular coin?
A: Look at the surface under good lighting. Proof coins have a mirror-like background and often a frosted, white design on the raised areas. A regular business strike will look more uniformly shiny or flat without that dramatic contrast.
Q: Is the 1968-S Roosevelt Dime made of silver?
A: No. By 1968, the U.S. Mint had already removed silver from dimes. The 1968-S dime is composed of a clad metal — copper in the core with a copper-nickel outer layer. It contains no silver, so its value is purely based on collector demand and condition.
Q: What is the most valuable 1968-S dime ever sold?
A: Top-graded 1968-S Proof Roosevelt Dimes certified as PR70 DCAM by PCGS or NGC have sold for several hundred dollars. These perfect specimens are extremely rare, but they do exist and occasionally come up at major coin auctions.
