1973 Dime Coin Value (Errors List, “D”, “S” & No Mint Mark Worth)

Over 770 million 1973 dimes entered circulation during America’s Watergate crisis year, most coins endured decades of pocket wear, leaving high-grade survivors surprisingly rare.

Grade makes the difference between pocket change and collectible treasure. Standard circulated examples bring $0.31 in Fine condition, while Mint State specimens start at $5.50. Full Bands varieties multiply values significantly, reaching $50 in premium grades.

Mastering these condition-driven premiums characteristics unlocks the secrets of 1973 Dime value for both casual finders and serious collectors.

 

1973 Dime Value By Variety

The value of a 1973 Roosevelt dime varies significantly depending on its mint mark, striking quality (such as Full Bands designation), and overall condition grade. 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 1973 Dime Worth Money

The 1973-S dime graded MS70 dominates the market at $7,050, representing the pinnacle of Roosevelt dime collecting. This extraordinary value reflects its perfect condition—a grade achieved by fewer than 1% of all coins submitted for professional grading.

The significant price gap between the top specimen and other entries demonstrates how dramatically condition affects value in numismatics. Even dropping to MS65, the 1973-D commands $1,200, while the Philadelphia-minted example in MS62 reaches $1,020.

Proof coins from San Francisco also perform strongly, with a 1973-S PR67 specimen valued at $978. This highlights collector demand for both business strikes in exceptional condition and well-preserved proof specimens.

The data spanning from 2004 to present reveals consistent market appreciation for high-grade examples. Collectors willing to invest in professionally graded, top-tier specimens can expect these coins to maintain or increase their premium status in the marketplace.

 

History of The 1973 Dime

The 1973 Roosevelt dime represents a significant moment in American numismatic history, struck during one of the nation’s most turbulent political periods. As the Watergate scandal unfolded throughout 1973, these coins circulated quietly through the hands of Americans witnessing unprecedented constitutional crisis.

By 1973, the Roosevelt dime series had reached its twenty-seventh year of continuous production. The design honored President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who died in 1945, commemorating his legacy and his pivotal role in founding the March of Dimes to combat polio.

The 1973 dimes reflected the fundamental compositional change mandated by the Coinage Act of 1965. This landmark legislation, signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson on July 23, 1965, eliminated silver from circulating dimes due to rising precious metal prices that threatened to destabilize the monetary system. The new clad composition—copper-nickel layers bonded to a pure copper core—ensured stable, cost-effective currency production.

The mint mark system in 1973 followed the post-1968 standard, with Denver coins bearing “D” and San Francisco proofs displaying “S” above the date on the obverse. Philadelphia continued striking coins without mint marks, a practice that would persist until 1980 when the “P” designation finally appeared on dimes.

The year 1973 marked a mature phase in the clad coinage era, as Americans had fully adapted to base-metal coins after eight years without silver in circulation. These dimes witnessed a nation grappling with political scandal while maintaining the everyday commerce that Roosevelt himself had worked to stabilize during the Great Depression decades earlier.

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

 

Is Your 1973 Dime Rare?

Without proper evaluation tools, you could easily overlook a rare high-grade specimen or Full Bands variety worth significant money. Download the CoinValueChecker App to access instant rarity assessment and accurate pricing data.

 

Key Features of The 1973 Dime

The 1973 Roosevelt dime maintains the classic design introduced in 1946 by Chief Engraver John R. Sinnock. Each design element carries profound symbolic meaning, from Roosevelt’s dignified portrait to the torch of liberty flanked by branches representing American ideals.

The Obverse Of The 1973 Dime

President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s left-facing profile dominates the obverse, rendered with naturalistic detail that distinguishes it from more stylized presidential portraits. The inscription “LIBERTY” appears along the upper left rim, while “IN GOD WE TRUST” is positioned below Roosevelt’s chin in smaller lettering.

The date “1973” sits at the lower right, with the mint mark (D or S, if present) positioned directly above it. Designer John R. Sinnock’s initials “JS” appear discretely at the neck truncation, left of the date, a subtle signature that sparked Cold War-era controversy when the coin debuted.

The Reverse Of The 1973 Dime

A flaming torch occupies the center position, symbolizing liberty and enlightenment. An olive branch extends from the left, representing peace, while an oak branch on the right signifies strength and independence—design elements commemorating World War II’s victorious conclusion.

The Latin motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM” (Out of Many, One) stretches across the field, divided by the torch and branches. “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” arcs along the upper rim, with “ONE DIME” positioned at the bottom, separated by decorative dots on each side.

Other Features Of The 1973 Dime

The coin measures precisely 17.90 millimeters in diameter and weighs 2.27 grams, with a thickness of 1.52 millimeters. The edge displays distinctive reeding, 115 vertical grooves encircling the circumference, a traditional security feature inherited from precious metal coinage.

The clad composition consists of outer layers (75% copper, 25% nickel) bonded to a pure copper core, creating the characteristic sandwich structure. This three-layer construction is visible along the reeded edge, where the copper core appears as a thin stripe between the outer layers.

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

 

1973 Dime Mintage & Survival Data

The 1973 mintage data reveals significant production disparities across facilities, with Denver leading at 455 million pieces, followed by Philadelphia’s 315 million circulation strikes. San Francisco focused exclusively on proof production, striking approximately 2.76 million collector specimens.

Survival rates reveal coin preservation patterns. Philadelphia circulation strikes show a mere 1% survival rate, with only 3.15 million coins surviving in collectible condition from the original 315 million minted. This dramatic attrition reflects the harsh realities of decades in circulation, where wear and loss claim the vast majority of business strikes.

In stark contrast, Deep Cameo (DCAM) proofs demonstrate an impressive 81% survival rate, with 2.23 million specimens preserved from the original proof mintage. This remarkable preservation stems from careful handling by collectors who immediately recognized these coins’ numismatic value.

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

 

The Easy Way to Know Your 1973 Dime Value

Exploring your 1973 dime’s value requires checking three key factors: mint mark location (above the date), overall condition, and strike quality including Full Bands designation on the torch. Circulated examples typically range from face value to a few dollars, while uncirculated specimens in MS65+ grades can command hundreds of dollars or more.

Instead of researching complex grading standards manually, download the CoinValueChecker App for instant professional assessment—simply photograph your coin to receive accurate mint mark identification, condition grading, and real-time market pricing based on current auction data.

 

1973 Dime Value Guides

The 1973 Roosevelt dime was produced in five distinct varieties across three U.S. Mint facilities, each with unique characteristics that significantly impact collector value. Values range from face value for worn circulation strikes to over $7,000 for flawless proof specimens, making proper identification essential for accurate valuation.

1973 Dime Categories:

• 1973 No Mint Mark Dime (Philadelphia production with notorious strike weakness)
• 1973-D Dime (Denver issue with superior strike quality)
• 1973-S Proof Dime (San Francisco collector strikes with mirror finishes)
• 1973-S CAM Dime (Cameo designation with moderate frosting contrast)
• 1973-S DCAM Dime (Deep Cameo with dramatic frosting and highest premiums)

Exploring the differences between Philadelphia’s strike quality challenges, Denver’s higher production standards, and San Francisco’s specialized collector proofs helps collectors recognize valuable examples within this common-date series.

 

1973 No Mint Mark Dime Value

The 1973 Roosevelt dime without a mint mark represents Philadelphia Mint production. The absence of any letter above the date is perfectly normal for this era, as Philadelphia didn’t adopt the “P” designation on dimes until 1980, making every no-mint-mark 1973 dime a Philadelphia product.

By 1973, the United States had fully transitioned into the clad coinage era following the Coinage Act of 1965. These dimes reflected a period when the nation was recovering from economic challenges, including the early 1970s inflation that would later escalate into the decade’s defining economic crisis.

Philadelphia coins from this era are notably recognized for being poorly struck, with mass production pressures resulting in weak details—particularly on Roosevelt’s hair and the torch bands. This striking inconsistency creates collector opportunity, while over 300 million were produced, sharply detailed specimens remain genuinely scarce.

Auction records demonstrate the value potential for exceptional examples, with a 1973 Philadelphia dime graded MS62 selling for $1,020 at Heritage Auctions in September 2017. This remarkable price for a mid-range Mint State coin underscores how condition and strike quality override mintage figures in determining value.

The auction performance of Philadelphia-struck 1973 dimes reflects the premium collectors place on sharply struck examples.

Market patterns throughout the year reveal consistent collector interest.

 

1973-D Dime Value

The 1973-D Roosevelt dime was struck at the Denver Mint, identifiable by the “D” mint mark positioned above the date on the obverse. With 455,032,426 pieces produced—the highest mintage among all three 1973 varieties—these coins remain abundant in circulated condition at face value.

Denver’s production during this period generally exhibited better strike quality compared to Philadelphia issues, though Full Bands specimens remain scarce due to the persistent challenge of achieving complete torch band separation. The auction record for a Full Bands example reached $400 for an MS67FB specimen sold in September 2020, demonstrating the premium collectors assign to sharply struck pieces.

Population data reveals significant rarity at premium grades, with 75 coins certified at MS66, only three at MS66+, and just 12 achieving MS67—the highest grade recorded. Accroding to price guide, standard MS66 examples trade around $65, while MS67 specimens command $525, reflecting the scarcity above MS65 despite the massive original mintage.

The key to value lies in preservation and strike quality. Collectors seek coins with strong luster, minimal contact marks, and well-defined details, particularly on the torch bands that serve as the primary indicator of striking excellence.

Below are Denver specimens auction prices at major auctions

The market performance of 1973-D Dime peaked in September 2025.

 

1973-S Proof Dime Value

The 1973-S proof dime was struck exclusively at the San Francisco Mint for collectors, with approximately 2.76 million pieces produced. Unlike circulation strikes intended for everyday commerce, these coins were never released into general use, instead being sold in special collector sets that preserved their pristine condition from the moment of striking.

Proof coins represent a special production category, struck using highly polished dies and specially prepared planchets to create exceptionally detailed and beautiful coins. The manufacturing process often involves multiple strikes to ensure complete design transfer, resulting in sharp details that far exceed standard circulation quality.

The population data reveals healthy availability across premium grades, with 61 coins certified at PR67, 114 at PR68, and 352 at PR69. This distribution reflects both the careful original production and the protective storage these collector-focused coins typically receive. An auction record of $978 for a PR67 specimen demonstrates solid collector demand, while most examples remain accessible at modest price points ranging from $6 to $8 across grades PR67 through PR69.

Auction results for standard proof specimens demonstrate stable pricing across grades.

Collector market activity remains robust throughout the year.

 

1973-S CAM Dime Value

The 1973-S Cameo (CAM) dime represents a transitional designation between standard proofs and Deep Cameo specimens, characterized by light to moderate frosting on Roosevelt’s portrait and the reverse torch against highly reflective mirror-like background fields.

Roosevelt dimes predating the mid-1970s bearing cameo contrast are worth significantly more than ordinary proofs, reflecting the technological challenges San Francisco Mint faced in consistently producing high-contrast specimens during this era. Die preparation and striking techniques in 1973 struggled to maintain frosting on design elements, making Cameo examples considerably scarcer than their abundance in later years when production methods improved.

The Cameo designation occupies a middle ground in both rarity and value, more common than Deep Cameo specimens yet substantially rarer than standard proofs from the same 2.76 million mintage.

Cameo-designated proofs have established a distinct price tier between standard proofs and Deep Cameo specimens at auction.

The following is a summary of the market activity of the 1973-S CAM Dime coin.

 

1973-S DCAM Dime Value

The 1973-S Deep Cameo (DCAM) dime characterized by highly reflective mirror-like backgrounds combined with heavy, even frosting on both Roosevelt’s portrait and the reverse torch.

While examples up to PR69 Deep Cameo are abundant, only in perfect PR70 Deep Cameo condition are they difficult to find and worth a significant premium. The population data confirms this scarcity pattern, 4,784 coins achieve PR69 DCAM, but merely 89 reach the flawless PR70 DCAM standard. This dramatic population drop reflects the extreme difficulty of producing and preserving coins with absolutely no surface imperfections visible under 5x magnification.

The auction record of $7,050 for a PR70 DCAM specimen sold at Heritage Auctions in January 2014 demonstrates the substantial premium commanded by perfection. Standard PR69 DCAM examples trade for approximately $14, while PR70 DCAM specimens command $1,150, a nearly 100-fold value increase driven entirely by the rarity of achieving flawless surfaces combined with full Deep Cameo contrast.

Deep Cameo specimens have set impressive records at major auction houses, particularly in perfect PR70 condition.

Market analysis reveals limited but highly competitive bidding activity, driven by advanced collectors pursuing the finest available examples.

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

 

Rare 1973 Dime Error List

While over 770 million 1973 dimes were produced, a small percentage escaped quality control with minting errors that significantly increase their value. These manufacturing defects, ranging from minor planchet imperfections to dramatic striking anomalies, transform ordinary ten-cent pieces into collectible treasures worth anywhere from $10 to potentially hundreds of dollars.

1. Off-Center Strike Errors

An off-center strike occurs when the planchet is not properly positioned between the dies during the striking process, resulting in a misaligned design with visible blank areas. The coin appears lopsided, with part of Roosevelt’s portrait or the torch design missing or cut off at the edge.

This error happens when feeding mechanisms malfunction, allowing planchets to enter the striking chamber at incorrect angles. The severity of misalignment directly impacts value—minor shifts of 5-10% add modest premiums, while dramatic 40-60% off-center strikes with the date still visible command $10-$50 or more.

The key factor determining value is date visibility. Collectors specifically seek examples where “1973” remains fully readable despite the striking error, as this confirms the coin’s year and authenticity. Well-preserved off-center 1973 dimes in Mint State condition can exceed $75 depending on the degree of misalignment and overall eye appeal.

2. Clipped Planchet Errors 

A clipped planchet error occurs when the blank metal disc is improperly cut from the metal strip, leaving a curved “bite” or missing section along the coin’s edge. The clip typically appears as a crescent-shaped indentation, though straight clips can also occur when blanks overlap the strip’s edges.

This defect results from improper feeding of the metal strip through the blanking press, causing the circular punch to overlap previously punched holes or cut into defective areas. The rim near the clip appears blunted or incomplete rather than properly formed.

Most 1973 clipped planchet dimes range from $5-$15 for minor clips (5-15% missing), with larger clips commanding proportionally higher prices. The size, shape, and location of the clip all factor into valuation—curved clips with 20-30% missing metal typically bring $30-$75. Extreme examples with dramatic clips maintaining full design details have sold for substantially more, though such specimens are exceptionally rare.

3. Struck-Through Errors

Struck-through errors occur when foreign objects—including grease, dust, metal fragments, or cloth fibers—become lodged on the die face or planchet surface during striking. The obstruction prevents proper metal flow, creating weak or “mushy” areas where design details appear soft, incomplete, or completely absent.

Value depends on the error’s visibility, size, and location. Minor grease strikes affecting small areas might add only $2-$5, while dramatic struck-through errors obscuring major design elements like Roosevelt’s face or the torch can reach $20-$50. The most desirable examples show clear evidence of the foreign material’s shape and texture, providing visual interest that appeals to error coin collectors.

 

Where to Sell Your 1973 Dime?

From local coin shops to online auction platforms, each selling venue offers distinct advantages and potential drawbacks for 1973 dime sellers. Make an informed decision by comparing all your options before listing your coin.

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

 

1973 Dime Market Trend

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

 

FAQ about The 1973 Dime

1. Are most 1973 dimes valuable?

Most circulated 1973 dimes are worth only their face value of 10 cents, as over 770 million were produced across three mint facilities. However, uncirculated specimens in high grades (MS65 and above) or those with Full Bands designation can command premiums ranging from $5 to several hundred dollars.

2. What is Full Bands (FB) and why does it matter?

Full Bands refers to complete horizontal line separation across the torch on the reverse, indicating a sharply struck coin. This designation significantly increases value because many 1973 dimes, especially from Philadelphia, were weakly struck due to mass production pressures. Full Bands specimens in MS67 grade can sell for $400-$450, compared to just $20-$30 for non-FB examples of the same grade.

2. Does the green discoloration on my 1973 dime affect its value?

Green coloration typically results from oxidation caused by exposure to humidity or salt, which is common on copper-nickel coins. This environmental damage generally reduces collector value unless the coin grades exceptionally high in other aspects.

Original mint luster without discoloration is always more desirable, though some collectors appreciate naturally toned coins if the colors are attractive.