The 1978-S Roosevelt Dime is worth anywhere from $2 to $15 for most proof examples, with top-grade specimens grading PR70 selling for $50 or more. If you’ve come across one of these shiny coins in an old collection or a forgotten box, you’re in the right place — let’s break down exactly what it’s worth and why.
What Is the 1978-S Roosevelt Dime?
The 1978-S Roosevelt Dime was struck exclusively at the San Francisco Mint and was never intended for everyday pocket change. Unlike the Philadelphia and Denver Mint issues from that year, the “S” mint mark tells you this coin was made specifically as a proof coin — part of the annual U.S. Mint Proof Set sold to collectors. That “S” under Roosevelt’s portrait on the obverse is your first clue that this isn’t just any old dime.
If you’ve ever wondered whether a coin in your collection might be something special, using the best coin identifier app can help you quickly identify it and get a ballpark value before diving deeper into research.
The 1978-S proof dime is made of the same copper-nickel clad composition as regular circulation dimes introduced in 1965. However, the proof striking process gives it that mirror-like background and frosted design detail that makes it so visually distinctive. Most people who find one immediately notice how different it looks from a regular dime — and they’re right to take notice.
Understanding the Value of the 1978-S Roosevelt Dime
So what is the 1978-S Roosevelt Dime actually worth? The honest answer is: it depends on condition, and condition matters a lot with proof coins.
Here’s a general breakdown of values you can expect:
| Grade | Description | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| PR60–PR64 | Proof with minor contact marks or haze | $2 – $5 |
| PR65–PR67 | Gem Proof, clean surfaces, strong mirrors | $5 – $15 |
| PR68–PR69 | Near-perfect, virtually flawless | $15 – $40 |
| PR70 | Perfect Proof, no flaws under magnification | $50+ |
For the most current and detailed 1978-S Roosevelt Dime price data across all grade levels, it’s worth checking a live database that tracks auction results in real time. Prices can shift depending on recent sales and collector demand.
How to Tell If Your 1978-S Dime Is Worth More
Most 1978-S proof dimes grade between PR65 and PR67 — which is still a respectable gem-quality coin. But a few key factors can push that value higher:
Cameo and Deep Cameo designation: Proof coins with heavily frosted devices (the raised design elements) contrasting sharply against mirror-like fields receive Cameo (CAM) or Deep Cameo (DCAM) designations from grading services like PCGS and NGC. A 1978-S Roosevelt Dime graded PR67DCAM can be worth significantly more than a standard PR67.
Original packaging: If the coin is still in its original U.S. Mint proof set packaging, that adds credibility — though it doesn’t dramatically increase the value of this particular coin, it does make the whole set more attractive to buyers.
Professional grading: If you believe your coin is in exceptional condition, submitting it to PCGS or NGC for grading and encapsulation is worth considering. A certified PR69DCAM or PR70 example commands a real premium. CoinHix makes it easy to track these certified coin values so you always know what the market looks like before you buy or sell.
Where to Sell or Buy the 1978-S Roosevelt Dime
Found one and want to sell it? Or looking to add one to your collection? Here are your best options:
– eBay – The most active marketplace for Roosevelt dimes. Search completed listings to see what buyers are actually paying, not just what sellers are asking.
– Coin shows and local dealers – Great for getting in-person assessments, though dealers typically offer 50–70% of retail value.
– Online coin marketplaces – Sites like PCGS CoinFacts, NGC Price Guide, and collector forums are excellent research tools.
You can also check a comprehensive breakdown of the 1978 dime’s value across all mint marks and grades to compare how the “S” proof version stacks up against its Philadelphia and Denver counterparts.
The CoinHix app is another smart tool to have on your phone. It aggregates real-time coin auction data so you can see exactly what a coin sold for recently — not just estimated guide prices. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just curious, CoinHix gives you a confident, data-backed answer.
Is the 1978-S Roosevelt Dime Rare?
This is one of the most common questions people ask, and the honest answer is: not particularly. The San Francisco Mint produced approximately 3.1 million proof sets in 1978, meaning tens of millions of proof Roosevelt dimes from that year exist. For most grades, supply comfortably meets collector demand.
That said, high-grade examples — especially those graded PR69DCAM or PR70 — are far less common than their lower-grade counterparts. Out of millions minted, only a fraction survive in truly perfect condition. That’s where the real collector value kicks in.
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FAQ
Q: Is the 1978-S Roosevelt Dime made of silver?
A: No. The 1978-S dime is made of copper-nickel clad, just like regular circulation dimes from that era. The U.S. Mint stopped producing silver dimes for general use after 1964. So while it’s a beautiful proof coin, it doesn’t carry any silver melt value.
Q: How do I know if my 1978-S dime is a proof coin?
A: Look for a mirror-like, highly reflective background on the coin’s surface and a sharp, frosted appearance on the raised design elements. Proof coins also have very sharp, well-defined edges. If it came from a boxed set with other 1978-S coins (cent, nickel, quarter, half dollar), that’s a strong sign it’s a proof.
Q: Should I clean my 1978-S Roosevelt Dime before selling it?
A: Absolutely not. Cleaning a coin — even gently — can remove its natural luster and leave fine hairline scratches that dramatically reduce its grade and value. Collectors and graders strongly prefer original, untouched surfaces. Leave it exactly as you found it, store it carefully, and let a professional assess it as-is.
