The 1981-S Type 2 Roosevelt Dime is worth anywhere from $5 in standard proof condition to over $1,200 for a perfect deep cameo specimen. While most pocket change consists of circular strikes, this specific variety is a proof coin that enthusiasts hunt for due to its distinct mint mark finish.
| Coin Grade | Estimated Value (USD) |
|---|---|
| PR 65 Deep Cameo | $5.00 – $8.00 |
| PR 68 Deep Cameo | $15.00 – $25.00 |
| PR 69 Deep Cameo | $40.00 – $60.00 |
| PR 70 Deep Cameo | $450.00 – $1,250.00+ |
Understanding the 1981-S Type 2 Roosevelt Dime Rarity
If you have found a shiny 1981 dime with an “S” mint mark, you might be holding something more valuable than a mere ten cents. In 1981, the San Francisco Mint produced two distinct versions of the proof dime: Type 1 and Type 2. The Type 2 is significantly scarcer and more sought after by collectors. To ensure you are looking at the right coin, using the best coin identifier app can help you zoom in on the mint mark details that separate the common coins from the valuable ones.
The transition between these two types occurred mid-year when the Mint replaced an old, worn-out mint mark punch (Type 1) with a new, much clearer one (Type 2). Because the Type 2 punch was introduced late in the production cycle, fewer of these coins were minted compared to the Type 1. This scarcity drives the market price. When checking your collection, specialized tools like CoinHix can assist in cataloging your finds and tracking how many Type 2 varieties are currently appearing in recent auctions.
Unlike the common business-strike dimes found in your couch cushions, all “S” mint dimes from 1981 were part of Proof Sets. These were sold directly to collectors and were never intended to circulate. However, over decades, many sets have been broken open, and occasionally, these mirror-like coins end up in general circulation. If you see a Roosevelt dime that looks exceptionally shiny with frosted details, it is time to check that mint mark under magnification.
How to Identify the Type 1 vs Type 2 Mint Mark
The primary difference between these two varieties lies entirely in the appearance of the “S” mint mark. The 1981-S Type 1 is often referred to as the “Filled S.” On these coins, the mint mark looks somewhat blob-like. The loops of the “S” are filled with metal, making it look rounded and less defined. While still a beautiful proof coin, it is the standard version and carries a lower premium.
The 1981-S Type 2 is known as the “Clear S.” This version features a very sharp, well-defined letter “S” with distinct bulbous ends. The field (flat surface) around the letter is clear, and the internal loops of the “S” are open. Most collectors use the CoinHix app to compare high-resolution photos of both types to ensure they aren’t misidentifying their coin.
To see how this scarcity affects the market, you can review the 1981 dime value data which highlights the premium that collectors are willing to pay for the Type 2 variety. While millions of Type 1 dimes were produced, the surviving population of high-grade Type 2 coins remains relatively small, especially in the coveted “Deep Cameo” finish.
| Feature | Type 1 (Filled S) | Type 2 (Clear S) |
|---|---|---|
| Visual Appearance | Blurred, “blobby” S | Sharp, clear S |
| Internal Loops | Filled with metal | Open and visible |
| Mint Mark Serifs | Rounded/Indistinct | Bulbous and flat |
Current Market Value and Grading Factors
The value of a 1981-S Type 2 Roosevelt Dime depends almost exclusively on its grade. Professional graders like PCGS or NGC look for “Deep Cameo” (DCAM) or “Ultra Cameo” qualities. This refers to the contrast between the frosted portrait of FDR and the mirror-like background. A coin that has scratches, fingerprints, or “haze” from the original mint packaging will see a significant drop in value.
At the lower end of the proof scale (PR63-PR67), a Type 2 dime might only sell for $5 to $15. However, the market accelerates once you hit PR69. A PR70 1981-S Type 2—which is a coin that is perfect even under 5x magnification—is a true rarity. You can verify the current auction prices for Roosevelt dimes to see how quickly the price jumps for top-tier specimens.
It is interesting to note that while the “P” (Philadelphia) and “D” (Denver) dimes from 1981 are common, a 1981-S Type 2 in a PR70 grade can occasionally fetch prices north of $1,000 at major heritage auctions. This makes it one of the most valuable modern Roosevelt Dimes in existence. For everyday Americans, checking these details with CoinHix can be the difference between spending a dime and making a small fortune.
| Grade Designation | Price Range Type 1 | Price Range Type 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Proof 67 DCAM | $3.00 | $15.00 |
| Proof 69 DCAM | $12.00 | $55.00 |
| Proof 70 DCAM | $85.00 | $1,200.00+ |
Why Condition Matters for Modern Proof Dimes
Modern coins like the 1981 Roosevelt Dime were minted using advanced technology compared to coins from the 1800s. Consequently, collectors expect perfection. Any sign of wear, known as “friction,” will disqualify the coin from a high proof grade. If you find one in a coin roll, it likely has what collectors call “bag marks”—tiny nicks from hitting other coins. These marks significantly reduce the value.
The “Deep Cameo” finish is another critical factor. When the dies are fresh, they produce a thick frost on the raised parts of the design. As the die is used, the frost wears away. Type 2 dimes with heavy frost and deep mirror fields are the “crème de la de la crème.” If your coin has a “flat” or “watery” look throughout the entire design without that white, frosted look on Roosevelt’s head, it may not reach the highest price points.
Storing these coins properly is essential. A single fingerprint can contain oils that will eat into the surface of the proof coin over time, creating permanent black spots. If you suspect you have a Type 2 variety, handle it only by the edges or wear lint-free gloves. Putting it in a protective flip or capsule immediately is the best way to preserve its potential value.
The “S” Mint History in 1981
The 1981 production year was a time of transition for the United States Mint. The San Francisco facility was primarily focused on proof coinage for collectors, but the quality of the mint mark punches had been declining throughout the late 70s. By early 1981, the “S” punch was so worn that it produced the “Filled S” Type 1. This prompted the creation of the Type 2 punch, which corrected the aesthetic issues.
This same Type 1 and Type 2 phenomenon occurred across all denominations in 1981, including pennies, nickels, quarters, and Susan B. Anthony dollars. However, the dime is particularly popular because the mint mark is located just above the date on the obverse (front) of the coin, making it easier to spot. Collecting a full “Type 2” proof set from 1981 is a common goal for modern coin enthusiasts.
By understanding the history of the San Francisco Mint during this era, you can better appreciate why your 1981-S Type 2 Roosevelt Dime is a Piece of American numismatic history. It represents a moment where the Mint prioritized quality and clarity, leaving collectors with a rare variety to hunt for decades later.
| Mint Location | Mint Mark | Mintage Type |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | P | Business Strike (Circulation) |
| Denver | D | Business Strike (Circulation) |
| San Francisco | S | Proof Strike (Collector Only) |
FAQ
Q: How can I tell if my 1981-S dime is a Type 2 without a microscope?
A: You can usually tell with a standard 10x jeweler’s loupe or even a high-quality smartphone camera zoom. Look at the ends (serifs) of the “S.” If the ends are rounded and the middle of the “S” is a solid blob, it is a Type 1. If the ends look like clear, flat bulbs and you can see the background inside the loops, it is a Type 2.
Q: Is a 1981-P or 1981-D dime worth anything?
A: Most 1981-P and 1981-D Roosevelt dimes are only worth their face value of ten cents if they have been used in circulation. However, if they are in “Uncirculated” condition (showing no wear and original mint luster), they can be worth $1 to $5. Rare “Full Band” versions, where the horizontal lines on the torch on the back are fully separated, can be worth much more.
Q: Where is the best place to sell a 1981-S Type 2 Roosevelt Dime?
A: For lower-grade versions (valued under $20), eBay or a local coin shop are your best bets. For high-grade versions that might be worth hundreds of dollars, it is recommended to have the coin authenticated by PCGS or NGC and then sold through a reputable auction house or a specialized numismatic dealer.
Q: Did they make any silver 1981 dimes?
A: No, the U.S. Mint did not produce any silver dimes for circulation or proof sets in 1981. All 1981 dimes are “clad,” meaning they are made of a core of pure copper bonded to outer layers of a copper-nickel alloy. If you find a 1981 dime that looks silver and is very heavy or very light, it might be an error or a fake, but it is not a standard silver issue.
