The “Missing S” That Made This Ordinary Dime Worth Nearly Half a Million Dollars!
At PennyVerse.info, we love a mystery — and few coins capture intrigue quite like the 1975 No ‘S’ Proof Dime.
This small, shiny Roosevelt Dime looks ordinary at first glance, but one crucial detail is missing — and that single absence has turned it into a $450,000 modern treasure! 
Let’s uncover what makes this coin so rare, how to spot one, and why collectors worldwide consider it one of the holy grails of modern U.S. coinage.
What Is a Proof Coin — and Why the “S” Matters
Before diving in, let’s clarify what makes proof coins special.
Proof Coins are struck for collectors, not for circulation. They’re made using highly polished dies and planchets, giving them a mirror-like shine and frosted details.
Since 1968, almost all proof coins have been produced at the San Francisco Mint, which identifies them with an “S” mint mark — usually found above the date on the obverse.
That’s where our mystery begins… 
How to Identify the 1975 No ‘S’ Proof Dime
This dime’s value lies not in what’s added — but in what’s missing!
Obverse (Front)
Franklin D. Roosevelt faces left.
The year “1975” appears clearly.
No “S” mint mark above the date — the area where it should be is completely blank!- Mirror-like proof finish and sharp, frosted details confirm it’s a proof coin, not a circulation strike.
Reverse (Back)
- Features the familiar torch, olive, and oak branches design.
- No visible errors on the reverse — the absence of the “S” is only on the front.
Why It’s Worth $450,000 – The Truth Behind the Value
Yes — the rumors are real. Authenticated examples of this coin have fetched up to $450,000! 
Here’s why:
The Rarest Modern Error: Only two confirmed examples of this coin exist.
Minting Mishap: A few proof dies were mistakenly sent to production without the “S” mark at the San Francisco Mint.
Extreme Scarcity: With just two known coins, it’s one of the rarest modern U.S. mint errors ever recorded.
Collector Obsession: Its uniqueness makes it a centerpiece for elite numismatists.
“The 1975 No ‘S’ Proof Dime stands as one of the most extraordinary minting oversights in American coin history.”
5-Step Authentication Checklist – How to Confirm the Real Deal
Because of its rarity, authentication is absolutely essential. Follow this 5-step checklist before jumping to conclusions:
Check the Date & Finish – Must read “1975” and display proof characteristics (mirror fields, frosted devices).
Confirm the Missing “S” – No mint mark above the date.
Die Markers – Experts can match tiny die markers to the known legitimate dies.
Weight & Metal – Should weigh 2.268g, made of copper-nickel clad.
Professional Grading – Submit to PCGS or NGC for official “No ‘S’ Proof” certification.
Remember: business-strike 1975 dimes without an “S” are common and worth only face value!
Why This Coin Commands Such a Massive Price Tag
Only Two Known Specimens — a modern coin rarity on par with ancient treasures.
Unique Type of Error — a missing mint mark on a proof coin is virtually unheard of.
Post-1900 Prestige — among the most valuable modern errors in U.S. numismatic history.
Unending Demand — coveted by collectors, museums, and auction houses worldwide.
Where and How to Sell a Verified 1975 No ‘S’ Proof Dime
If you’re one of the unbelievably lucky few to own one, handle it with extreme care and consider these professional options:
Top Auction Houses – Heritage Auctions, Stack’s Bowers, or GreatCollections for elite handling and global exposure.
Direct Private Sale – Ultra-rare “trophy coins” are often purchased by elite private collectors.
Never clean or polish a proof coin — it will instantly lose significant value! Always hold it by the edges only.
Think You Might Have One? Here’s What to Do Immediately
If you suspect your dime is the real thing, take these steps ASAP:
Capture high-resolution macro photos (front and back).
Record a 360° video under good lighting.
Include notes about how and where you found it.
Then, send your materials to:
MillionDollarCoin@PennyVerse.info
Text “1975NOS” to 50551 for a free evaluation and consultation.
Free With Evaluation:
- “Million-Dollar Coin” initial assessment
- Guidance on grading and authentication
- Trusted referrals to expert auction houses
Expert Insight
“The 1975 No ‘S’ Proof Dime is a perfect reminder that sometimes, it’s what’s missing that makes something priceless.”
— Dr. Eleanor Vance, Chief Numismatist, RareCoin Guild
Certification & Disclaimer
Certified by: PennyVerse Verification Shield
Updated: July 2025
All valuations subject to market conditions and grading. Always verify with PCGS or NGC.
Final Thought
Some legends are born from grand designs — others from simple mistakes.
The 1975 No ‘S’ Proof Dime proves that even a missing letter can create a $450,000 masterpiece.
So before you dismiss that shiny dime… look closely.
You just might be holding one of the rarest modern coins ever struck. 
