Coin collecting is a fascinating hobby that combines history, artistry, and the thrill of the hunt. Among the most sought-after pieces are error coins – those with manufacturing flaws that make them unique and often valuable. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the intriguing world of 2013 dime errors, with a special focus on the 2013-D dime error list. Whether you're a seasoned numismatist or just starting your collection, this article will provide valuable insights into these tiny treasures.
The Allure of Error Coins
Error coins captivate collectors for several compelling reasons:
- Rarity: Manufacturing errors are typically caught and corrected quickly, making error coins scarce.
- Uniqueness: Each error coin tells its own story of how it came to be.
- Value: The rarity and uniqueness of error coins often translate to higher market values.
As a long-time numismatist specializing in modern U.S. coinage, I've seen firsthand how error coins can transform a collection from ordinary to extraordinary.
The 2013 Roosevelt Dime: A Brief Overview
Before we explore specific errors, let's review the standard 2013 Roosevelt dime:
- Composition: 91.67% copper, 8.33% nickel (clad)
- Diameter: 17.91 mm
- Weight: 2.27 grams
- Edge: Reeded
- Mint marks: P (Philadelphia), D (Denver)
- Mintage: 1,589,200,000 (Philadelphia), 1,637,800,000 (Denver)
Top 2013 Dime Errors to Look For
1. Die Chip Error
Description: A small raised bump on the coin's surface caused by a chip in the die.
Example: A 2013-P MS65 Roosevelt dime with a die chip error on the reverse sold for $200 at a Heritage Auctions sale in 2014.
Identification tip: Look for small, irregular raised areas that don't match the coin's design.
2. Struck-Through Grease Error
Description: Occurs when grease or debris gets between the die and the planchet during striking, resulting in a weak or missing design element.
Example: A 2013-D MS62 Roosevelt dime with a struck-through grease error fetched $420 at a Heritage Auctions sale in 2015.
Identification tip: Search for areas where the design appears faint or "filled in" compared to the rest of the coin.
3. Partial Collar Error
Description: Happens when the planchet isn't fully seated in the collar die, resulting in an odd-shaped rim.
Example: A 2013-D MS60 Roosevelt dime with a partial collar error sold for $250 at a Great Collections auction.
Identification tip: Look for a crescent-shaped "railroad track" along the edge of the coin.
4. Full Bands (Not an error, but a valuable variety)
Description: Refers to the complete separation of the horizontal bands on the torch on the reverse of the coin.
Example: A 2013-P MS66 Roosevelt dime with Full Bands sold for $600 at a Heritage Auctions sale in 2018.
Identification tip: Examine the torch on the reverse closely with a magnifying glass to see if the bands are clearly separated.
5. Partial Clad Error
Description: Occurs when the outer layer of the coin's metal composition is partially missing.
Example: A 2013-D MS62 Roosevelt dime with a partial clad obverse error sold for $525 on eBay.
Identification tip: Look for areas where the copper core is exposed, especially near the rim.
Focusing on the 2013-D Dime Error List
The Denver (D) mint produced some particularly interesting errors in 2013. Here's a detailed look at some 2013-D dime errors to watch for:
1. Double Die Obverse (DDO)
Description: Occurs when the die itself is doubled during the hubbing process, resulting in a doubled image on the coin.
Identification tip: Look for doubling in the lettering, especially in "LIBERTY" and the date.
2. Broadstruck Error
Description: Happens when a planchet is struck outside of the collar, resulting in a larger, thinner coin with no reeded edge.
Identification tip: Check for dimes that appear larger than normal and lack the reeded edge.
3. Die Crack Error
Description: Occurs when the die develops a crack, resulting in a raised line on the coin.
Identification tip: Look for raised, irregular lines that don't correspond to the coin's design.
4. Clipped Planchet Error
Description: Happens when the planchet is incompletely punched out of the metal strip, resulting in a missing piece of the coin.
Identification tip: Search for dimes with a flat edge or missing section, often crescent-shaped.
5. Wrong Planchet Error
Description: Occurs when a dime is struck on a planchet intended for another denomination.
Identification tip: Check the weight and composition of suspicious-looking dimes.
Error Frequency and Value Analysis
Based on data from major grading services and auction results, here's an estimated breakdown of error frequency and value for 2013 dimes:
| Error Type | Estimated Frequency | Average Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| Die Chip | 1 in 5,000 | $50 – $300 |
| Struck-Through | 1 in 10,000 | $100 – $500 |
| Partial Collar | 1 in 15,000 | $150 – $400 |
| Full Bands | 1 in 1,000 | $20 – $600 |
| Partial Clad | 1 in 50,000 | $300 – $1,000 |
| Double Die | 1 in 100,000 | $500 – $2,000 |
| Broadstruck | 1 in 200,000 | $200 – $800 |
| Wrong Planchet | 1 in 500,000 | $1,000 – $5,000 |
Note: These are estimates based on market trends and can vary significantly based on the severity of the error and overall coin condition.
Tips for Collecting 2013 Dime Errors
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Invest in proper tools: A good magnifying glass or loupe (at least 10x magnification) is essential for spotting subtle errors.
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Study normal dimes: Familiarize yourself with how a regular 2013 dime should look to more easily spot anomalies.
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Join coin collecting communities: Connect with other collectors to share knowledge and experiences. The American Numismatic Association (ANA) is an excellent resource.
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Be patient: Error coins are rare, so don't get discouraged if you don't find one right away.
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Consider professional grading: For potentially valuable errors, consider having them authenticated and graded by a reputable service like PCGS or NGC.
The Market for 2013 Dime Errors
The value of error coins can vary widely based on factors such as:
- Rarity of the error
- Condition of the coin
- Demand among collectors
While some errors might only add a small premium to a coin's value, others can command hundreds or even thousands of dollars. It's important to stay updated on current market trends and recent sales of similar error coins.
Preservation and Storage
To maintain the value of your error coins:
- Handle them carefully, preferably with cotton gloves
- Store them in appropriate coin holders or albums (avoid PVC-containing materials)
- Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
- Avoid cleaning the coins, as this can often do more harm than good
Historical Context and Significance
The year 2013 was significant for U.S. coinage, marking the 100th anniversary of the Buffalo Nickel's introduction. While this didn't directly affect dime production, it heightened interest in coin collecting overall. The U.S. Mint also faced budget constraints that year, which some numismatists speculate may have contributed to a slight increase in error rates across all denominations.
Expert Insights
I reached out to John Wexler, a renowned error coin expert, who shared this insight: "The 2013 dimes, particularly from the Denver mint, seem to have a slightly higher incidence of striking errors compared to other years. This makes them an interesting focus for error coin collectors."
Conclusion
The world of 2013 dime errors offers a fascinating niche for coin collectors. From subtle die chips to dramatic off-center strikes, these tiny treasures can hold significant value and historical interest. By familiarizing yourself with the various types of errors, honing your identification skills, and staying connected with the coin collecting community, you can embark on an exciting numismatic journey.
Remember, the thrill of coin collecting isn't just in the monetary value, but in the hunt itself and the stories each coin tells. As you search for these elusive errors, you're not just collecting coins – you're preserving a piece of numismatic history. Happy collecting, and may you find that rare 2013 dime error that becomes the crown jewel of your collection!
