As a seasoned US coin collector and numismatic expert, I'm often asked about the value of common coins. One question that frequently comes up is, "How much is a 1967 dime worth?" The answer might surprise you. While most 1967 dimes are only worth their face value of ten cents, some can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Let's dive into the fascinating world of this seemingly ordinary coin and uncover its potential hidden value.
The History and Significance of the 1967 Roosevelt Dime
Before we explore the value, it's essential to understand the historical context of the 1967 dime.
A Transitional Year in US Coinage
1967 marked a significant transition in US coinage:
- It was the second year of non-silver dime production
- The last year before the Coinage Act of 1965 fully took effect
- A year of high mintage due to coin shortages
Key Facts About the 1967 Roosevelt Dime:
- Design: Obverse features President Franklin D. Roosevelt; reverse displays a torch with olive and oak branches
- Composition: Copper-nickel clad (91.67% copper, 8.33% nickel)
- Weight: 2.27 grams
- Diameter: 17.9 mm
- Thickness: 1.35 mm
- Edge: Reeded (119 reeds)
- Mintage: 2,224,407,000 (Philadelphia Mint only)
Factors Influencing the Value of a 1967 Dime
Several factors can significantly impact the worth of a 1967 dime:
- Condition (grade)
- Presence of errors or varieties
- Special strikes (SMS)
- Full Bands designation
- Market demand
Let's examine each of these factors in detail.
Grading and Condition: The Foundation of Value
The condition of a coin is paramount in determining its value. For 1967 dimes, professional grading services use a scale from About Uncirculated (AU) to Perfect Mint State (MS-70).
Value Based on Grade (Regular Strike):
| Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| MS-63 | $2.50 |
| MS-64 | $3.50 |
| MS-65 | $8 |
| MS-66 | $15 |
| MS-67 | $32 |
| MS-68 | $400 |
| MS-69 | $500+ |
As evident from this table, the value increases exponentially with higher grades. The jump from MS-67 to MS-68 is particularly noteworthy, reflecting the rarity of finding a 1967 dime in such pristine condition.
The Allure of Full Bands (FB)
"Full Bands" (FB) is a designation given to Roosevelt dimes with clearly defined horizontal lines on the torch on the reverse side. This feature commands a significant premium:
| Grade | Estimated Value (FB) |
|---|---|
| MS-65 FB | $35 |
| MS-66 FB | $65 |
| MS-67 FB | $250 |
| MS-68 FB | $1,800+ |
The most expensive 1967 FB dime sold at auction reached $1,440 in MS-68 grade, according to records from Heritage Auctions.
Special Mint Set (SMS) Dimes: A Collector's Dream
In 1967, the U.S. Mint produced Special Mint Set coins for collectors. These have a unique finish and are often of higher quality than regular strikes.
SMS Dime Values:
| Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| MS-63 to MS-67 | $5 to $14 |
| MS-68 | $26 |
| MS-69 | $675 |
Cameo and Deep Cameo (DCAM) contrast on SMS coins can significantly increase their value:
- MS-69 CAM: $2,750
- MS-68 DCAM: Up to $9,988 (record auction price)
Errors and Varieties: Where the Big Money Lies
Coin errors can turn an ordinary 1967 dime into a valuable collectible. Here are some notable errors to look out for:
1. Doubled Die Obverse (DDO)
- Value range: $10 to $600 depending on the strength of doubling
- Look for doubling on Roosevelt's features or lettering
2. Die Adjustment Strike
- Value range: $100 to $150
- Characterized by weak or partial design elements
3. Missing Obverse Clad Layer
- Value range: $60 to $150
- Appears as a silver-colored surface on the obverse
4. Struck 50% Off-Center
- Value range: $30 to $100 if the date is visible
- Shows a significant portion of the design missing
5. Clipped Planchet
- Value range: $35 to $40 in mint state
- Exhibits a crescent-shaped cut on the edge of the coin
How to Identify a Potentially Valuable 1967 Dime
To determine if your 1967 dime might be worth more than face value:
- Check for a mint mark (there shouldn't be one)
- Examine the condition (look for luster and minimal wear)
- Inspect the bands on the torch for full separation
- Look for any obvious errors or striking anomalies
- Use a 10x magnifying glass to spot any doubling on the obverse
The Rarity Factor: Understanding Population Reports
Population reports from professional grading services provide valuable insight into the rarity of high-grade 1967 dimes. As of 2023, PCGS reports:
| Grade | Population |
|---|---|
| MS-67 | 215 |
| MS-67+ | 11 |
| MS-68 | 2 |
| MS-68+ | 1 |
This data illustrates why MS-68 and above coins command such high premiums – they are exceedingly rare.
Market Trends and Future Outlook
The market for high-grade 1967 dimes has shown steady growth over the past decade. Factors contributing to this trend include:
- Increasing interest in modern coin collecting
- Growing awareness of conditional rarity
- Limited supply of top-grade specimens
Experts predict continued appreciation for premium examples, particularly those with Full Bands or significant errors.
Preservation and Care Tips
If you believe you have a valuable 1967 dime:
- Handle it by the edges only using cotton gloves
- Store it in a non-PVC, inert plastic holder
- Keep it in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight
- Consider professional grading and encapsulation for high-value specimens
Where to Sell Your Valuable 1967 Dime
If you've identified a potentially valuable 1967 dime, consider these options:
- Reputable coin dealers (check for ANA membership)
- Online auction sites specializing in numismatics (e.g., Heritage Auctions, GreatCollections)
- Major coin shows like the ANA World's Fair of Money
- Submit to professional grading services (PCGS, NGC) for authentication and potential consignment
Conclusion: The Thrill of the Hunt
While the vast majority of 1967 dimes are worth only face value, the potential for finding a rare and valuable specimen makes them an exciting area of numismatics. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, the hunt for that elusive MS-68 Full Bands or dramatic error can be thrilling.
Remember, the key to success in coin collecting is knowledge and patience. Take the time to educate yourself, examine your coins carefully, and always buy from reputable sources. Who knows? That 1967 dime in your pocket change might just be a numismatic treasure waiting to be discovered.
Happy collecting!
