Valuable 1987 Dime: Have you ever checked your pocket change for hidden treasures? I recently discovered that a seemingly ordinary 1987 dime could be worth far more than its face value. Coin collectors across the country are absolutely losing their minds over the value of certain 1987 dimes that contain specific minting errors or unique characteristics. What makes this discovery particularly exciting is that these dimes are still potentially in circulation, meaning you might have one sitting in your coin jar or wallet right now. The rare 1987 dime has created quite a stir in numismatic circles, with some specimens fetching prices that would make anyone do a double-take at their spare change.
What Makes the 1987 Dime So Valuable?
The rare 1987 dime that has coin collectors absolutely losing their minds isn’t just any ordinary ten-cent piece. The most valuable versions feature what numismatists call a “no mintmark” error. Typically, dimes minted in Denver would carry a small “D” mintmark, while those from Philadelphia would have no mintmark (prior to 1980) or a “P” (after 1980). Some 1987 dimes were mistakenly struck without their appropriate mintmark, creating a rare variety. Other valuable 1987 dimes include those with double-die errors (where design elements appear doubled due to misalignment during striking), off-center strikes, or those made with clashed dies. The condition or grade of the coin also significantly impacts its value, with uncirculated specimens commanding the highest prices.
Why Collectors Are Frantically Searching for These Dimes
Coin collectors are absolutely losing their minds over the rare 1987 dime because of both its scarcity and the thrill of the hunt. Unlike ancient coins or specially-issued commemorative pieces that were never in general circulation, these valuable dimes were released into everyday use, creating the possibility that anyone might find one. The market for these error coins has heated up considerably in recent years, with some specimens selling for hundreds or even thousands of dollars. This potential for a massive return on a ten-cent investment has created something of a modern treasure hunt. Additionally, as more collectors become aware of these valuable variants, the competition to find them intensifies, driving prices even higher. For many collectors, owning a rare 1987 dime represents not just a financial investment but a piece of American minting history.
How to Identify a Valuable 1987 Dime
If you’re hoping to find one of these treasures, knowing what to look for is essential. First, examine the mintmark area on the obverse (front) side of the dime, near Roosevelt’s neck. A missing mintmark on a Denver-minted coin would be valuable. Next, look for doubling in the lettering or Roosevelt’s features using a magnifying glass. Check the edges of the coin for any irregularities or off-center strikes. The condition is crucial – coins showing little to no wear (known as “uncirculated” condition) are worth significantly more than those with visible wear. I recommend using a coin grading guide to help determine the condition accurately.
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- Examine the mintmark area carefully for errors
- Look for doubling in the design elements
- Check for off-center strikes or other minting errors
- Assess the overall condition and grade of the coin
When to Sell or Hold Your Rare 1987 Dime
Timing can be everything when it comes to maximizing the value of your rare 1987 dime. If you believe you’ve found one of these valuable coins, I’d suggest first getting it authenticated by a reputable coin grading service like PCGS or NGC. This professional verification can significantly increase both the coin’s marketability and value. As for when to sell, the market for error coins tends to fluctuate based on collector interest and media coverage. Currently, the rare 1987 dime is experiencing heightened interest, which typically means higher prices. However, truly rare specimens often appreciate over time. Consider your financial needs, the current market conditions, and the specific rarity of your coin before deciding whether to sell immediately or hold as an investment.
Real-Life Discovery
In 2018, a Michigan resident named James was sorting through his deceased grandfather’s coin collection when he discovered a 1987 dime with no mintmark that appeared to have been minted in Denver. Unsure of its significance, he took it to a local coin shop where the owner immediately recognized its potential value. After professional grading confirmed it was indeed a rare error coin in nearly uncirculated condition, James sold the dime for $1,800 at a regional coin auction. What makes this story particularly remarkable is that his grandfather had simply collected the coin from everyday change, never realizing its true value. This discovery highlights why the rare 1987 dime has coin collectors absolutely losing their minds – valuable treasures could be hiding in plain sight.
