1987 Roosevelt Dime: Have you noticed how certain coins suddenly capture the attention of collectors worldwide? That’s exactly what’s happening with the 1987 Roosevelt dime. This seemingly ordinary ten-cent piece has transformed from pocket change into a prized possession that collectors are scrambling to find. I’ve been watching this phenomenon develop over recent months, and it’s fascinating to see how a coin that most people would spend without a second thought has become the center of attention in numismatic circles. The 1987 Roosevelt dime’s rise to fame represents one of those unexpected twists in the coin collecting world that makes this hobby so exciting.
What Makes the 1987 Roosevelt Dime Special?
The 1987 Roosevelt dime stands out primarily because of certain rare variations that can be found among the millions minted that year. While most 1987 dimes are worth only face value, specific error coins from this year can command impressive premiums. The most sought-after variations include doubled die errors, where parts of the design appear duplicated due to misalignment during the minting process. Other valuable specimens include those with off-center strikes or repunched mint marks. What’s particularly interesting about the 1987 dime is that these errors weren’t widely recognized until recently, meaning many could still be in circulation or tucked away in old coin collections, waiting to be discovered. This treasure hunt aspect has fueled much of the current enthusiasm.
Why Collectors Are Obsessed With This Coin
The sudden obsession with the 1987 Roosevelt dime can be attributed to several factors. First, there’s the thrill of the hunt – knowing that valuable specimens might be hiding in plain sight creates excitement. Second, social media and online coin forums have spread awareness about these rare dimes, creating a snowball effect of interest. Third, the relatively affordable entry point makes this collection accessible – unlike some rare coins that cost thousands just to begin collecting. I’ve noticed that many collectors appreciate how this particular coin represents the perfect blend of rarity and attainability. The market for these dimes has grown substantially, with some of the rarest error varieties now selling for hundreds or even thousands of dollars, despite their humble origins as everyday pocket change.
How to Identify Valuable 1987 Dimes
If you’re wondering whether you might have a valuable 1987 dime in your possession, there are several key features to examine. First, check the mint mark – dimes from this year were produced at Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S). The San Francisco proof versions tend to be more valuable. Next, use a magnifying glass to look for doubling on the date, inscriptions, or Roosevelt’s profile. Pay special attention to the mint mark area, as repunched mint marks are particularly valuable. Examine the edges for any irregularities or signs of being off-center. The condition is also crucial – uncirculated coins with their original luster intact command higher prices. I recommend investing in a good coin loupe and reference guide if you’re serious about hunting for these treasures.
- Look for doubling on lettering and Roosevelt’s profile
- Check for off-center strikes and misaligned dies
- Examine mint marks for repunching errors
- Assess overall condition and presence of original luster
When Did the 1987 Dime Become Collectible?
The journey of the 1987 Roosevelt dime from ordinary change to collector’s obsession has an interesting timeline. While error coins have always held value among specialized collectors, the widespread interest in this particular year’s dime is a relatively recent phenomenon. The turning point came around 2018 when several high-profile auction sales of 1987 error dimes garnered attention in numismatic publications. Social media coin collecting communities then amplified this interest, with collectors sharing their finds and creating greater awareness. By 2020, the 1987 dime had firmly established itself as a modern collectible worth searching for. The pandemic period further accelerated interest, as many people took up coin collecting during lockdowns and began searching through their change and old coin jars for potential treasures.
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Real-World Discovery
One of the most inspiring stories I’ve encountered involves a Tennessee collector named Robert who decided to check a roll of dimes he had stored away since the late 1980s. Having read about the 1987 dime phenomenon online, he meticulously examined each coin under proper lighting. His persistence paid off when he discovered a 1987-D dime with significant doubling on the date and mint mark. After having it authenticated by a professional grading service, the coin was valued at approximately $1,200 – an incredible return on his ten-cent investment. Robert’s story highlights why so many collectors are now carefully examining their change and coin collections for these overlooked treasures.
