1985 Dime Value (Errors List, “P” ,“D” &  “S” Mint Mark Worth)

The 1985 Dime Value varies significantly based on condition and specific type. Circulated examples from Philadelphia and Denver typically range from $0.10 to $0.79. Uncirculated mint state pieces are more valuable, averaging $5.83 to $7.29.

Full Bands varieties, which display complete horizontal lines on the torch bands, command higher prices between $2.00 and $20.57. Proof coins from San Francisco typically trade around $6.44.

Whether you’re a beginning collector or evaluating inherited coins, understanding these price points helps determine which 1985 dimes merit careful preservation.

 

1985 Dime Value By Variety

The United States Mint produced three main varieties of 1985 dimes, each with distinct characteristics and values.

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 1985 Dime Worth Money          

The most valuable recorded sale reached $1,645 for a 1985-P in MS-61 condition. This exceptional price suggests the coin likely possessed special characteristics or errors beyond typical grade considerations.

A 1985-D graded MS-68 achieved $1,320, demonstrating Denver strikes can command substantial premiums in top grades.

Philadelphia mint examples show interesting price variations across different quality levels. A 1985-P MS-66 brought $978, while a higher-graded MS-69 sold for $558. An MS-68 example realized only $71, illustrating how specific coin characteristics affect final prices.

The 1985-S graded PR-70 reached $489, representing perfect proof quality. Lower mint state grades show more accessible values: MS-67 specimens range from $60 to $127, while MS-65 coins start at $55.

These auction records span from 2002 to present, showing sustained collector interest in premium-quality 1985 dimes.

 

History Of The 1985 Dime

The Roosevelt dime debuted in 1946 to honor President Franklin D. Roosevelt following his death in 1945, specifically chosen for this denomination due to Roosevelt’s connection to the March of Dimes foundation, which he helped establish to combat polio.

Initially struck in 90% silver until 1964, the series transitioned to copper-nickel composition in 1965.

By 1985, the Roosevelt dime had been in continuous production for nearly four decades. That year marked a pivotal moment in American history, as President Reagan began his second term amid economic recovery following the early 1980s recession, with the economy growing 4.2% and unemployment declining to 7%.

More significantly, 1985 witnessed the beginning of Cold War thaw when Mikhail Gorbachev assumed leadership of the Soviet Union in March and met with Reagan at their first summit in Geneva that November.

The 1985 dime represented continuity during this transformative period—a steady symbol of American coinage that had witnessed the entire post-World War II era.

As the nation transitioned from Cold War tensions toward eventual détente, these modest copper-nickel coins circulated through an America experiencing both economic optimism and historic geopolitical shifts.

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

 

Is Your 1985 Dime Rare?

For detailed rarity rankings and specific variety information about your 1985 Dime, our CoinValueChecker App provides accurate assessments to help you understand exactly how uncommon your coin is within the Roosevelt Dime series.

 

Key Features Of The 1985 Dime

The 1985 Roosevelt dime displays Chief Engraver John R. Sinnock’s enduring design from 1946. This clad coin features a copper core sandwiched between copper-nickel outer layers.

Understanding these design elements helps collectors identify authentic specimens and appreciate their symbolic significance.

The Obverse Of The 1985 Dime

The obverse showcases President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s left-facing profile as the central element. The word “LIBERTY” appears along the left rim, while “IN GOD WE TRUST” is positioned below Roosevelt’s chin.

The date “1985” is placed at the lower right side of the coin. Designer John R. Sinnock’s initials “JS” appear at the base of Roosevelt’s neck.

The mint mark, when present, appears above the date on the obverse. Philadelphia coins bear a “P,” Denver coins show a “D,” and San Francisco proofs display an “S.”

The Reverse Of The 1985 Dime

The reverse features a torch prominently displayed in the center, symbolizing liberty. An olive branch flanks the torch on the left, representing peace. An oak branch appears on the right, symbolizing strength and independence.

The inscription “E PLURIBUS UNUM” stretches across the upper field. “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” curves along the outer rim, with “ONE DIME” appearing at the bottom.

The torch bands are particularly important to collectors. Full Bands specimens show complete, unbroken horizontal lines across all torch bands.

Other Features Of The 1985 Dime

The coin weighs 2.27 grams and measures 17.91 millimeters in diameter. Its composition consists of outer layers of 75% copper and 25% nickel bonded to a pure copper core. The edge features distinctive reeding for security and identification purposes.

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

 

1985 Dime Mintage & Survival Data

The Philadelphia Mint produced 705,200,962 dimes in 1985, making it the higher-mintage facility that year. Denver struck 587,979,970 pieces, approximately 117 million fewer than Philadelphia. Combined production exceeded 1.29 billion coins, reflecting typical circulation demand during the mid-1980s.

Both mintages represent substantial production numbers. This high volume typically correlates with greater availability in the current market. Most 1985 dimes from both facilities remain common in circulated grades.

Survival data for these coins remains undocumented. The unknown survival rate makes it difficult to assess precise population statistics. However, given the recent production date and large mintages, significant quantities likely survive today.

Collectors seeking mint state examples will find both varieties readily available. The real challenge lies in locating premium-quality specimens with Full Bands designation or exceptional surface preservation.

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

 

The Easy Way to Know Your 1985 Dime Value

Determining your 1985 dime’s worth requires examining several key factors. First, check the mint mark above the date to identify whether it’s from Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco.

Next, assess the coin’s condition by looking for wear, scratches, or damage. Inspect the torch bands on the reverse—complete, unbroken bands significantly increase value. Consider having valuable specimens professionally graded to confirm their worth.

For instant, accurate valuations based on current market data, simply scan your coin using the CoinValueChecker App to receive a detailed assessment within seconds.

 

1985 Dime Value Guides

The United States Mint produced 1985 Roosevelt dimes at three facilities, creating distinct varieties for collectors:

• 1985-P Dime– Struck at the Philadelphia Mint with a mintage of 705,200,960 pieces. These coins bear a “P” mint mark above the date and were mass-produced for general circulation.
• 1985-D Dime– Produced at the Denver Mint with a mintage of 587,979,970 coins. The “D” mint mark appears above the date on the obverse. These business strike coins were intended for everyday commerce.
• 1985-S DCAM Dime– Struck exclusively at the San Francisco Mint with a proof mintage of 3,362,821. These special collector coins feature Deep Cameo (DCAM) contrast with frosted devices against mirror-like fields.

Each variety represents different production purposes and collecting opportunities. The Philadelphia and Denver issues served everyday circulation needs with combined production exceeding 1.2 billion coins.

In contrast, San Francisco focused solely on producing premium proof specimens for collectors. These specially manufactured coins were sold in proof sets and never intended for circulation.

The proof coins exhibit superior striking quality and dramatic visual contrast compared to their business strike counterparts.

 

1985-P Dime Value 

The 1985-P Roosevelt dime represents the Philadelphia Mint’s production for the year. Over 705 million pieces were struck for circulation.

These coins remain common in lower grades through MS-66. Finding specimens in MS-67 or higher proves challenging. The Full Bands designation significantly increases desirability and value among collectors.

Auction records demonstrate the premium placed on exceptional quality. The highest recorded sale reached $1,645 for a well-preserved example. Another specimen graded MS-66 brought $978 at auction.

Strike quality and eye appeal greatly influence final prices. Even coins with identical grades can achieve different results based on these factors. Top-grade examples with Full Bands remain scarce in the marketplace. Collectors actively pursue these premium specimens.

Auction records show price trends and collector demand patterns over time.

Market activity reveals consistent trading interest throughout collecting seasons.

 

1985-D Dime Value 

The 1985-D Roosevelt dime represents Denver Mint production for the year. Nearly 588 million pieces were struck for circulation.

Denver coins often show slightly different striking characteristics compared to Philadelphia issues. High-grade specimens remain scarce. The Full Bands designation proves particularly challenging to find on Denver strikes.

The highest recorded auction price reached $1,320 for an MS-68 Full Bands specimen. This sale occurred in October 2020 through a major auction house. The grade represents exceptional preservation and strike quality.

Very few examples achieve this level in professional grading. Most Denver dimes remain common in circulated grades.Premium examples with Full Bands command significant premiums. The combination of sharp details and pristine surfaces remains elusive.

Historical auction results demonstrate steady collector interest over multiple decades.

Market activity patterns reveal consistent trading throughout the numismatic calendar year.

 

1985-S DCAM Dime Value 

The 1985-S represents a special proof striking made exclusively for collectors. San Francisco produced 3,362,821 specimens sold only in proof sets. These coins never entered circulation.

Deep Cameo designation refers to frosted design elements contrasting with mirror-like backgrounds. San Francisco proof coins receive special production treatment. Multiple strikes and polished dies create sharper details.

The mirror surfaces and frosted devices distinguish them from regular circulation coins. Collectors appreciate their pristine condition and distinctive appearance.

The highest recorded auction price reached $489 for a perfect specimen. This sale occurred in May 2003 through a major auction house. The coin achieved the top proof grade possible.

Most examples grade one level below perfection. These proof coins remain more affordable than premium business strikes despite their superior quality.

Historical auction data reveals pricing patterns for this collector-focused variety over time.

Market activity shows consistent demand for these specially produced San Francisco proof coins.

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

 

Rare 1985 Dime Error List

While 1985 Roosevelt dimes lack the famous error varieties found in other years, collectors still search for minting mistakes. No confirmed major errors exist for this date. However, Roosevelt dimes can display various minting imperfections. These errors occur across the entire series. Understanding common error types helps collectors identify potentially valuable specimens.

1. Off-Center Strike

Off-center strikes occur when the planchet shifts during the striking process. The design appears misaligned from the coin’s center. Part of the design may be missing entirely. The rim appears wider on one side than the other.

Values depend on how far off-center the strike is. Coins showing the complete date command higher premiums. The percentage of off-center striking determines desirability. Dramatic examples with 20-50% displacement attract strong collector interest. Minor shifts of 5-10% add modest value.

2. Clipped Planchet

Clipped planchet errors show a missing section along the coin’s edge. This happens when blank planchets overlap during the cutting process. The clipper punches through two blanks simultaneously. One receives a curved bite missing from its edge.

Straight clips and curved clips represent different types. Curved clips are most common and show a smooth arc. Straight clips occur less frequently. The missing portion size affects value. Larger clips with visible design elements command higher prices than small edge clips.

3. Doubled Die Errors

Doubled die errors result from misalignment during the die creation process. The hub strikes the die multiple times in slightly different positions. This creates doubling on letters, numbers, or design elements. Obverse doubling typically shows on the date or inscriptions.

While no major doubled die varieties exist for 1985, minor doubling can occur. Collectors report subtle doubling on some specimens. The most famous Roosevelt doubled die is the 1964-D reverse variety. Genuine doubled dies show raised doubling rather than shelf-like edges.

4. Die Cracks and Cuds

Die cracks appear as raised lines across the coin’s surface. These result from stress fractures in the striking die. Metal flows into these cracks during striking. The raised lines can be thin or thick depending on crack severity.

Cuds represent advanced die breaks. A piece of the die breaks away completely. This creates a raised blank area on the coin. The missing die section leaves unstruck metal. Major cuds affecting design elements command premiums. Minor die cracks add modest collectible interest.

 

Where To Sell Your 1985 Dime?

Choosing the right selling venue significantly impacts your final return. Each platform offers distinct advantages and limitations. Understanding these differences helps you maximize value while minimizing fees and effort.

We’ve compiled detailed information about the best online selling options, including their benefits and drawbacks, to help you make an informed decision.

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

 

1985 Dime Market Trend

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

 

FAQ About The 1985 Dime

1. Are 1985 dimes made of silver?

No, 1985 dimes contain no silver. The Roosevelt dime series transitioned from 90% silver composition to copper-nickel clad in 1965. All 1985 dimes feature a pure copper core sandwiched between outer layers of 75% copper and 25% nickel.

This composition change occurred due to rising silver prices in the 1960s. The clad composition gives 1985 dimes minimal melt value.

2. What does “Full Bands” mean on a 1985 dime?

Full Bands refers to complete, unbroken horizontal lines visible across the torch bands on the reverse. This designation indicates exceptional strike quality from the mint.

Most 1985 dimes show weak or incomplete bands due to die wear or insufficient striking pressure. Full Bands specimens are significantly scarcer and command substantial premiums. Collectors specifically seek this feature when building high-quality Roosevelt dime collections.

3. How much is a 1985 dime worth?

Most circulated 1985 dimes remain worth face value of 10 cents. Uncirculated examples typically range from $5.83 to $7.29 depending on grade.

Full Bands specimens command higher premiums between $2.00 and $20.57. Proof coins from San Francisco average around $6.44. Exceptional examples in top grades have sold for over $1,000 at auction, though such pieces are extremely rare.