A tiny mistake at the U.S. Mint decades ago created a coin so rare it’s now worth a fortune. The Roosevelt Dime with a clipped planchet error, valued at up to $450,000, is still floating around in circulation. Collectors and everyday folks alike are buzzing about the chance to find this treasure in their spare change. Here’s what you need to know about this incredible coin and how to spot one.
What’s a Clipped Planchet Error?
A clipped planchet error happens when a coin’s metal blank, or planchet, is improperly cut during production. This leaves the coin with a missing chunk, like a bite taken out of it. For the Roosevelt Dime, this error occurred in the 1960s and 1970s at certain mints. The mistake slipped past quality checks, and these dimes entered circulation. Because so few exist, collectors are willing to pay big money for them.
- The error shows a curved or straight cut on the coin’s edge.
- The design, like Roosevelt’s face or the torch, may be partially missing.
- Most valuable examples are in good condition, with clear details.
- Coins from the Denver (D) or Philadelphia (no mint mark) mints are especially prized.
Why Is It Worth So Much?
The value comes from rarity and demand. Only a handful of these error dimes are known to exist, and collectors love coins with unique flaws. Recent auctions have seen these dimes sell for $300,000 to $450,000, depending on condition. A 1969-D Roosevelt Dime with a clipped planchet sold for $425,000 in 2024, sparking fresh interest. Experts say prices could climb higher as fewer remain in circulation.
| Coin Details | Value Range |
|---|---|
| 1969-D Clipped Planchet | $300,000–$450,000 |
| 1970 No Mint Mark Error | $250,000–$400,000 |
| Poor Condition Error | $50,000–$100,000 |
How to Spot One in Your Change
You don’t need to be a coin expert to find this dime. Check your pocket change or coin jars for Roosevelt Dimes from the 1960s or 1970s. Look for a missing piece along the edge, where the coin appears clipped or bitten. The error should be obvious, but a magnifying glass can help confirm details. If you suspect you have one, take it to a reputable coin dealer or grading service like PCGS or NGC for authentication.
Stories of Lucky Finds
People have stumbled across these dimes in everyday transactions. In 2023, a Ohio cashier received one in a grocery store payment and sold it for $320,000. Another was found in a vending machine in Texas, fetching $280,000 at auction. These stories fuel the excitement, proving that life-changing finds are still possible. Coin shops report more customers bringing in old dimes to check for errors since the news spread.
Should You Cash In or Keep It?
If you find one, you’ve got a big decision. Selling now could mean a huge payday, especially with prices at record highs. But some collectors hold onto rare coins, betting their value will grow. Experts suggest getting the coin graded first, as this boosts its credibility and price. Whatever you choose, handle the coin carefully—scratches or wear can lower its value. For now, the hunt is on, and that $450,000 dime might just be jingling in your pocket.
