The 1979-D Roosevelt Dime is worth anywhere from 10 cents in heavily circulated condition to $15 or more in pristine mint state, with top-grade examples occasionally reaching $50 or higher at auction. If you found one of these coins in a jar, your wallet, or an old collection, you’re in the right place — let’s break down exactly what it might be worth.
Before we dive deeper, one of the easiest ways to check any coin you’ve found is with a free coin identifier app right on your phone. It takes seconds and can save you from guessing.
Background on the 1979-D Roosevelt Dime
The 1979-D Roosevelt Dime was struck at the Denver Mint, which is indicated by the small “D” mintmark on the obverse, just above the date. That year, Denver produced over 390 million dimes — making this one of the higher-mintage issues of the decade.
Because so many were made, the 1979-D is not considered a rare coin in most grades. However, that doesn’t mean it’s worthless. Coins that were carefully saved and never spent can still fetch meaningful premiums, especially in top mint state grades.
Roosevelt Dimes from this era were made from a copper-nickel clad composition — 75% copper and 25% nickel — replacing the old silver alloy that was discontinued after 1964. So don’t expect any silver value here, but condition still plays a huge role in price.
How Much Is the 1979-D Roosevelt Dime Worth Today
For most people, a circulated 1979-D dime pulled from pocket change is worth face value — exactly 10 cents. But once you move into uncirculated territory, the value starts climbing.
Here’s a quick look at estimated values by grade:
| Condition / Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $0.10 (face value) |
| Fine (F-12) | $0.10 – $0.25 |
| Extremely Fine (EF-40) | $0.25 – $1.00 |
| Mint State 63 (MS-63) | $2 – $5 |
| Mint State 65 (MS-65) | $8 – $15 |
| Mint State 67 (MS-67) or Higher | $30 – $50+ |
For up-to-date auction results and population data, you can check the latest 1979-D Roosevelt Dime price data across mint state grades to see what real collectors are currently paying.
What Makes a 1979-D Dime More Valuable
Condition is king when it comes to any coin’s value, and the 1979-D is no exception. A coin that has never been used — no scratches, no wear, full luster — is worth significantly more than one that has been rattling around in someone’s change jar for 40 years.
Look at the high points of the design: the cheekbone, the hair above Roosevelt’s ear, and the torch on the reverse. If those areas show wear or flattening, the coin is circulated and worth much less.
Strike quality also matters. Some 1979-D dimes show weak strikes where the bands on the torch aren’t fully separated. A coin with “Full Bands” (FB) designation from a grading service like PCGS or NGC will often sell for a premium over a non-FB example at the same numeric grade.
Eye appeal plays a role too. Coins with natural, original surfaces and no cleaning tend to attract more buyer interest — and higher prices.
How to Check Your 1979-D Dime’s Value at Home
You don’t need to be a coin expert to get a general idea of what your coin is worth. Start by looking at it under good lighting, ideally with a magnifying glass. Note whether the coin looks shiny and original or dull and worn.
Then check the mintmark — a “D” below the torch on the obverse near the date confirms it’s a Denver Mint coin. Compare it to photos in grading guides to estimate its condition.
For a more precise look at the 1979-D Roosevelt Dime’s full value breakdown by grade and variety, there are dedicated coin value resources that walk you through every detail.
You can also download CoinHix on your smartphone. CoinHix is a popular app for everyday collectors and beginners that lets you look up coin values, track your collection, and compare prices across grades — all in one place. It’s particularly useful when you’re trying to sort through a mixed lot of old coins quickly.
Is the 1979-D Roosevelt Dime Worth Keeping
If your coin is circulated, honestly, it’s probably worth keeping for sentimental value more than financial value. But if you’ve got a coin that appears truly uncirculated — bright, lustrous, with no visible wear — it’s absolutely worth protecting in a coin flip or holder.
Coins in MS-65 or higher are increasingly hard to find in truly original condition, and even a $10–$15 coin can be a nice return on something that cost you just a dime. If you think you have a gem-quality example, consider sending it to PCGS or NGC for professional grading. A certified MS-67 example could easily be worth $40 or more.
Using CoinHix can also help you decide whether submitting for grading makes financial sense based on current market values.
FAQ
Q: Does the 1979-D Roosevelt Dime contain any silver?
A: No. The 1979-D dime is made from a copper-nickel clad composition. The U.S. Mint stopped making silver dimes for circulation after 1964. So this coin has no silver melt value.
Q: How can I tell if my 1979-D dime is uncirculated?
A: Look for original mint luster — a cartwheel-like sheen that rotates as you tilt the coin under light. Any dullness, wear on Roosevelt’s cheek or hair, or scratches on the fields indicate the coin has been circulated.
Q: Where is the mintmark on a 1979-D Roosevelt Dime?
A: The “D” mintmark is located on the obverse (front) of the coin, just above the date on the right side. It’s small but visible to the naked eye or with a basic magnifying glass.
