1956 Dime Value (Errors List, “D” & No Mint Mark Worth)

A 1956 dime might look ordinary, but its silver content alone makes it worth more than face value. The 1956 Dime value starts at around $2.00 for typical circulated pieces, thanks to the 90% silver composition that was standard before 1965.

Condition matters significantly when determining worth. Well-preserved mint state examples can reach $15.43, while collectors pay premium prices for exceptional specimens. Special proof versions, particularly deep cameo strikes, have sold for $113.00.

Whether you’re holding a common silver coin or a collector’s piece depends entirely on how well it’s been preserved over the decades.

 

1956 Dime Value By Variety

The price differences between grades and varieties reveal how preservation affects value. If you know the grade of your coin, you can find the exact price below in the Value Guides section.

Also Read: Roosevelt Dime Value (1946-Present)

 

Top 10 Most Valuable 1956 Dime Worth Money

The 1956 Roosevelt dime collection showcases remarkable value variations, with condition and surface characteristics determining worth. At the summit stands the DCAM PR69 specimen, commanding an impressive $19,975.

Following the leader are the no mint Full Bands in MS68 at $9,988 and the Denver mint in MS68 at $8,400, both demonstrating how grade and mint location create substantial value differences.

Mid-range entries include the DDO FS-101 PR69 doubled die variety at $1,100 and D MS68 grades sold at $675. These pieces offer more accessible price points while still maintaining collectible appeal for serious numismatists.

The lower end features the regular PR69 at $495 and CAM PR69 at $400, with the collection closing at $353 for a regular MS67 coin. Even these modest examples carry good premiums over face value, reflecting the enduring collector interest in early proof Roosevelt dimes.

 

History of The 1956 Dime

The Roosevelt dime series, introduced in 1946 to honor President Franklin D. Roosevelt, had reached its tenth anniversary by 1956. Throughout this decade, the design remained unchanged, continuing to represent national unity and postwar optimism.

A turning point came in 1956 when the San Francisco Mint, which had struck circulating dimes since the series began, ended regular coinage operations. The facility was converted into an assay office during 1956-1967, focusing on refining and bullion storage instead of active production.

This decision reflected broader efficiency goals under the Eisenhower administration. The San Francisco building’s layout could not support the modern, linear minting systems used at Philadelphia and Denver, and with Denver’s expanded capacity serving western demand, maintaining dual operations on the West Coast was no longer practical.

From 1956 to 1967, only two mints produced circulating dimes—Philadelphia (without mint mark) and Denver (with “D”). Proof issues for collectors were made solely in Philadelphia during this time.

The transition simplified mint attribution while preserving adequate national supply, marking 1956 as a key milestone in the Roosevelt dime’s production history—the end of its three-mint era and the beginning of a temporarily centralized coinage system that would last until 1968.

Also Read: Top 100 Most Valuable Roosevelt Dimes Worth Money List

 

Is You 1956 Dime Rare?

Check your coin’s rarity instantly with our CoinValueChecker App to see where your 1956 dime stands among collectors.

 

Key Features of The 1956 Dime

The 1956 Roosevelt dime is designed by Chief Engraver John R. Sinnock. As a silver-era coin, it maintains the same specifications and design elements that characterized all Roosevelt dimes from 1946 through 1964, featuring distinctive obverse and reverse designs rich in American symbolism.

The Obverse Of The 1956 Dime

The obverse displays a left-facing portrait of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, occupying most of the coin’s face. The word “LIBERTY” appears along the left edge, positioned in front of Roosevelt’s profile.

Below the president’s chin, the national motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” is inscribed in smaller letters. The date “1956” sits at the lower right, beneath the neck truncation. Sinnock’s initials “JS” are placed just below the bust’s cutoff, to the left of the date.

The Reverse Of The 1956 Dime

The reverse features a centrally positioned torch representing liberty, flanked by symbolic branches. An olive branch appears on the left, symbolizing peace, while an oak branch on the right represents strength and independence.

The national motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM” stretches across the field in segments, divided by the torch and branches. The legend “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” encircles the upper portion, with the denomination “ONE DIME” displayed along the bottom edge.

For 1956 Denver issues, the “D” mint mark appears to the left of the torch base, while Philadelphia pieces carry no mint mark.

Other Features Of The 1956 Dime

The coin measures 17.90 millimeters in diameter and weighs 2.50 grams, composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. Its edge features reeding, a security measure consisting of vertical grooves around the coin’s circumference.

Also Read: Top 100 Rarest Dimes Worth Money (Most Expensive)

 

1956 Dime Mintage & Survival Data

The 1956 dime mintage reached over 217 million coins across two facilities. Philadelphia struck 108,640,000 pieces without a mint mark, and Denver also contributed 108,015,100 dimes marked with “D”.

These nearly identical mintage figures demonstrate balanced distribution between both mints, meeting nationwide circulation demands during the mid-1950s economic expansion.

Survival rates reveal striking contrasts between circulation strikes and collector specimens. Regular business strikes show a 10% survival rate, with approximately 10.8 million coins from each mint remaining in collectible condition today. The vast majority entered circulation and were lost to wear or melting.

However, from the 669,384 proof mintage, survival rates vary dramatically by designation. Standard proofs achieved 42.58% survival with 285,000 specimens preserved. Cameo examples show 23.90% survival, while Deep Cameo specimens are exceptionally rare with only 24,000 surviving—a mere 3.59% survival rate reflecting their scarcity and collector demand.

Also Read: Top 70+ Most Valuable Mercury Dimes Worth Money (Chart By Year)

 

The Easy Way to Know Your 1956 Dime Value

The simplest way to assess your 1956 dime starts with checking the mint mark on the reverse side—a “D” indicates Denver, while no mark means Philadelphia.

Next, examine the coin’s surface condition, looking for wear, luster, and the sharpness of details like Roosevelt’s profile and the torch bands. Coins with complete horizontal lines across the torch, known as “Full Bands,” are particularly desirable.

For an instant professional assessment without the guesswork, try our CoinValueChecker App to identify your coin’s grade and market value.

 

1956 Dime Value Guides

The 1956 Roosevelt dime collection encompasses five distinct categories, each representing different striking methods and visual characteristics that significantly impact market values.

Philadelphia and Denver facilities struck business strike specimens together for general circulation, with silver content establishing minimum values around $2-$3 for typical examples. These coins entered everyday commerce and most show varying degrees of wear from circulation.

Proof coins demonstrate superior quality through specially prepared dies and planchets, with standard proofs commanding modest premiums above business strikes. Condition remains paramount across all categories, with high-grade specimens achieving substantial premiums above base silver values.

1956 Dime Varieties:

• 1956 No Mint Mark Dime: Philadelphia business strike for circulation, common availability in most grades
• 1956-D Dime: Denver mint issue with “D” mark, near equally abundant as Philadelphia strikes
• 1956 Proof Dime: Special collector strikes with mirror-like surfaces, standard finish without cameo
• 1956 CAM Dime: Proof coins displaying moderate frosted devices against reflective fields
• 1956 DCAM Dime: Premium proofs featuring pronounced contrast between frosted design and mirrors

 

1956 No Mint Mark Dime Value

The 1956 Philadelphia dime presents collectors with a striking value range—from $2-3 for worn pieces to over $3,995 for exceptional specimens sold at auction in 2023. This dramatic difference hinges on preservation quality.

Discerning collectors examine whether Roosevelt’s hair shows visible fine lines and if the jawline from chin to ear retains sharp contours rather than wear-induced flatness.

Original luster—the fine surface texture creating that distinctive shine—becomes the defining factor, as circulated pieces develop a dulled silver-grey appearance. MS65 examples typically bring around $30, while premium MS67-MS68 pieces command $500-$8,000.

Proper care makes the difference between maintaining and losing value. Natural toning in golden, tan, or blue-violet hues appeals to collectors and can enhance prices by 20-50%. Archival holders preventing moisture exposure preserve surfaces, while cleaning strips luster and destroys worth.

Recent auction performance demonstrates collector interest across multiple grade levels and certification services.

The chart below reveals market patterns throughout the year, with particular momentum building during the recent period.

 

1956-D Dime Value

The Denver Mint produced over 108 million dimes in 1956, marking a dramatic production increase from the previous year’s output of fewer than 14 million pieces. This expansion occurred as the Denver Mint assumed full responsibility for supplying dimes to the entire western United States following San Francisco’s exit from coinage production.

Despite massive production and relatively consistent striking quality, finding top-condition survivors proves challenging. The investment threshold begins at MS65, where specimens start attracting serious buyers.

MS66 examples typically command $200-$250, while MS67 pieces reach $700 or higher when certified. A particularly fine MS68 specimen achieved $8,400 at auction in 2019.

Collectors seeking premium examples prioritize high luster, sharp torch detail, and minimal handling marks—qualities that distinguish investment-grade pieces from common circulation finds.

Historical auction records for this mintmark variant appear in the table below.

The accompanying chart tracks market engagement and collector interest over the past twelve months.

 

1956 Proof Dime Value

Philadelphia struck 669,384 proof dimes in 1956, making this issue one of the more accessible entries for collectors assembling silver-era proof sets. Coins are readily available through PR68, offering attractive quality at modest cost.

Scarcity emerges above that level. PR69 examples are genuinely rare, as few pieces have retained flawless surfaces after nearly seventy years. This creates a clear collecting hierarchy—from affordable mid-grade proofs to elite-condition rarities sought by specialists.

Registry set builders seeking finest-known specimens drive demand at the top end. A PR69 example demonstrates this market dynamic, with the auction results showing values around $495, modest compared to other Roosevelt proof rarities yet significant for what initially appears routine.

A review of past auction results provides insight into how collector interest and pricing have evolved over time.

Recent market activity chart further illustrates the coin’s current demand within the numismatic community.

 

1956 CAM Dime Value

While standard proofs remain relatively common up to PR68, cameo-designated pieces become increasingly elusive at higher grades. Struck in 90% silver at the Philadelphia Mint, the 1956 proof dime with cameo designation attracts both dedicated numismatists and investors drawn to silver’s intrinsic stability.

When assessing these proofs, collectors focus on preservation, luster, strike quality, and overall eye appeal as defined by the Sheldon Scale. These factors determine not only aesthetic value but also grading outcomes. The fine distinction between PR68 and PR69 grades can translate into substantial differences in desirability and market value.

Because of its silver composition, the coin requires careful storage to prevent tarnishing and discoloration. Protective holders that shield against environmental factors prove critical for maintaining the coin’s reflective surfaces and preserving its condition over time.

To understand its current market position, we can examine both historical auction results and recent trading activity.

The coin’s performance among collectors is further illustrated by contemporary market trends.

 

1956 DCAM Dime Value

Locating 1956 proof Roosevelt dimes with the full deep cameo designation is a significant challenge, especially at PR68 or higher. The rarity is evident from population figures: only 46 PR68 specimens have been certified, with just six grading higher.

Roosevelt proofs from the pre-1970s era that display this level of cameo contrast command substantially higher prices, reflecting both technical achievement and striking visual appeal.

A top-grade PR69 example set a benchmark when it sold for $19,975 at Heritage Auctions in 2016. Collectors seeking these coins should focus on pieces with complete frosted design elements and pristine mirror fields, as these qualities define the cameo designation.

Building a collection of such high-grade specimens requires patience and market awareness. Monitoring comparable sales and understanding subtle grade distinctions allow collectors to make informed decisions and seize opportunities when rare examples appear.

The coin’s previous auction results offer a clear view of its performance and value progression over the years.

The recent year’s market activity provides insight into its current popularity and demand dynamics.

Also Read: 16 Rare Dime Errors List with Pictures (By Year)

 

Rare 1956 Dime Error List

Error coins represent some of the most sought-after pieces in numismatics, as minting mistakes create unique specimens that deviate from standard designs. The 1956 Roosevelt dime series includes several notable error varieties that attract dedicated collectors and command substantial premiums in today’s market.

1. 1956 DDO FS-101 Errors

The 1956 DDO FS-101 stands as one of the most recognized varieties in the Roosevelt dime series, earning inclusion in the prestigious Cherrypickers’ Guide to Rare Die Varieties.

This error originated during die preparation when the hub impression shifted between strikes, creating distinct doubling across multiple design elements. The most visible doubling appears on “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” the date, and designer John Sinnock’s initials “JS” below Roosevelt’s neck.

Each element displays noticeable thickness and separation, distinguishing it from mechanical doubling which appears shelf-like and flat. This variety primarily exists on proof specimens struck at Philadelphia, making authentication through professional grading services essential.

Documented populations remain extremely limited, with fewer than a handful certified at high proof grades, elevating auction values into four-figure territory for specimens grading PR69 and above.

2. Clipped Planchet Errors

A clipped planchet occurs when the blanking press improperly feeds the metal strip during planchet preparation, resulting in coins with missing curved or straight sections along the edge.

For 1956 dimes, this manufacturing defect happened when blanking dies overlapped previously punched holes, creating distinctive crescent-shaped clips. The affected area typically displays an incomplete rim and flattened edge profile.

Collectors can identify genuine clips by examining the rim opposite the missing section, which often shows a characteristic distortion called the Blakesley Effect—a bulge created when metal flows into the void during striking.

Values depend heavily on clip size and location; minor clips affecting 5-10% of the planchet may bring $25-$50, while dramatic clips removing 20% or more can command several hundred dollars. Authentication remains crucial, as post-mint damage can superficially resemble clipped planchets.

3. Broadstrike Errors

Broadstrike errors develop when the retaining collar fails to contain the planchet during the striking process, allowing metal to spread beyond normal diameter limits.

The 1956 broadstruck dimes exhibit several diagnostic features: diameters measuring 18.5-19mm instead of the standard 17.9mm, thinner profiles than regulation specimens, and completely smooth edges lacking the characteristic reeded design.

This mechanical failure results from worn or misaligned collar equipment, causing the silver to expand laterally under striking pressure rather than filling the die cavities completely. The obverse and reverse designs appear stretched and flattened compared to properly struck examples.

Market values for 1956 broadstrikes typically range from $40 to $150 depending on the degree of expansion and overall condition, with silver content providing a baseline floor. Despite occurring across both Philadelphia and Denver facilities, these errors remain considerably scarcer than normal strikes due to quality control measures that caught most examples before release.

 

Where To Sell Your 1956 Dime?

Local coin shops offer immediate payment, while online marketplaces reach broader audiences, and auction houses work best for high-grade specimens—the right choice depends on your coin’s condition and how quickly you need to sell.

Check out now: Best Places To Sell Coins Online (Pros & Cons)

 

1956 Dime Market Trend

*Market Trend Chart showing the number of people paying attention to this coin.

 

FAQ About 1956 Dime

1. Is the 1956 dime rare?

The 1956 dime is not rare, with over 217 million struck between both mints. Examples in circulated condition and lower mint state grades are very common.

Rarity only emerges in MS67 or higher grades, especially with the Full Bands designation. Deep cameo proof versions are also difficult to find and command premium prices.

2. What determines a 1956 dime’s value?

Several factors influence value: the coin’s condition and grade, silver content, mint mark, and collector demand. Preservation is the most significant factor—uncirculated coins command substantially higher prices than worn examples.

Special designations like Full Bands, which indicate superior strike quality, add considerable premium. Additionally, proof coins, especially those with cameo or deep cameo contrast, are valued higher than regular business strikes.

3. Are there any valuable error coins from 1956 Dime?

Yes, 1956 dimes can have various minting errors including clipped planchets, repunched mint marks, and die breaks. These errors occur from mechanical issues during production, such as blanking machine misfeeds or die wear.

The value depends on the error’s visibility and severity—more dramatic errors typically bring higher premiums from error coin collectors.