If you’re into coin collecting, you might want to check if you have a 1968 “No S” Dime hidden away. This rare coin is incredibly valuable because of a mistake during the minting process that left out the “S” mintmark. As a result, only about two dozen of these coins exist, making them a treasure for collectors. In fact, one of these coins has been sold for as much as $40,800!
What is the 1968 “No S” Dime?
The 1968 “No S” Dime is a rare proof error coin, which means it was made with a mistake. Proof coins are specially minted coins with extra sharp details, and they are usually made for collectors. Most of these dimes should have an “S” mintmark, showing they were made at the San Francisco Mint. However, some of these dimes were struck without this mintmark, making them unique and highly valuable.
Why Is It So Valuable?
There are a few key reasons why the 1968 “No S” Dime is worth so much:
- Minting Error: The missing “S” mintmark makes this dime special. This mistake was caught quickly, so only a few coins were made before the error was corrected. This kind of minting error is rare, which increases the coin’s value.
- Limited Availability: Only about two dozen of these dimes are known to exist. The fewer coins there are, the more valuable they become because collectors are always searching for rare items.
- Historical Significance: This coin was produced during a transitional time for the U.S. Mint when they were changing the materials used for coins. From 1965 to 1967, coins did not have mintmarks to discourage hoarding, but the mintmarks were brought back in 1968. The No S Dime came from a proof set during this important time.
What Is the Most Valuable Version?
The PR69 Cameo version of the 1968 “No S” Dime is the most valuable. Only two of these coins are known to exist in this top condition, and they are highly prized by collectors. If you happen to have a PR69 Cameo dime, you could be sitting on a coin worth up to $40,800!
How Did This Error Happen?
The U.S. Mint resumed issuing proof coins with mintmarks in 1968. Proof coins are special coins made for collectors, with extra detail and shine. The San Francisco Mint was responsible for producing proof sets that year, and the dimes should have included an “S” mintmark. However, due to an error, one of the dies used to strike these coins did not have the mintmark, and a small number of these dimes were released before the mistake was caught.
How Rare Is the 1968 “No S” Dime?
The 1968 “No S” Dime is incredibly rare. Only around 24 of these coins have been found, making it one of the rarest proof error coins in U.S. history. Its rarity is one of the main reasons why collectors are willing to pay such high prices for it. If you happen to own one of these dimes, you may have a very valuable coin in your collection.
The 1968 “No S” Dime is a perfect example of how a simple mistake can turn an ordinary coin into a valuable collector’s item. With only about two dozen of these dimes in existence, they are highly sought after by numismatists (coin collectors). If you think you might have one of these rare coins, it could be worth a small fortune, with prices reaching up to $40,800! Whether you’re a serious collector or just getting started, this coin shows how exciting and profitable coin collecting can be.
