The 1982-D Roosevelt Dime is worth anywhere from its $0.10 face value in worn condition to over $500 in high-grade mint state. While most 1982 dimes you find in your change are only worth ten cents, certain specimens with exceptional luster or rare errors can be quite valuable to collectors.
| Condition / Grade | Estimated Market Value |
|---|---|
| Circulated (Average Wear) | $0.10 – $0.15 |
| About Uncirculated (AU) | $0.25 – $1.00 |
| Mint State 63 (MS63) | $3.00 – $8.00 |
| Mint State 65 (MS65) Gem | $15.00 – $25.00 |
| Mint State 67+ Plus / Full Bands | $100.00 – $600.00+ |
Understanding the History of the 1982-D Roosevelt Dime
The Roosevelt Dime has been a staple of American currency since 1946, honoring President Franklin D. Roosevelt after his passing. By 1982, the Denver Mint was striking these coins in massive quantities. If you find a coin with a small “D” above the date, it means it was minted in Colorado.
When searching your jars of change, you might wonder if a specific year stands out. Using the best coin identifier app can help you quickly distinguish between common dates and those that might hold a premium. In 1982, the United States was transitioning through economic shifts, and interestingly, the U.S. Mint did not issue official Uncirculated Mint Sets that year.
This lack of official sets means that finding high-quality “business strike” coins—those intended for general circulation—in pristine condition is harder than in other years. Because most 1982-D dimes were dumped into circulation, they suffered scratches and wear immediately. Consequently, collectors pay a premium for those rare survivors that remained in “Mint State.” If you aren’t sure of your coin’s grade, the CoinHix app provides a great starting point for visual comparison.
Grading and 1982-D Roosevelt Dime Worth
Collectors use a 1-to-70 scale to determine the value of a coin. For a 1982-D Roosevelt Dime, the difference between a “spent” coin and a “collectible” coin usually comes down to its luster and the presence of “Full Bands” (FB) on the torch.
The “Full Bands” designation refers to the horizontal lines on the torch on the reverse side of the coin. If these lines are clearly separated and not blended together, the coin is significantly more valuable. Most 1982-D dimes have weak strikes, making Full Band examples very rare.
| Technical Grade | Description | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| MS60 to MS63 | Typical mint luster, some marks | $1 – $10 |
| MS65 | Strong luster, very few marks | $15 – $30 |
| MS67 | Superb Gem, exceptional look | $50 – $120 |
| MS67 FB | Fully struck horizontal bands | $250 – $550 |
For those tracking market changes, seeing the current value for high-grade 1982 dimes provides a clear picture of how condition impacts price. Even a tiny scratch on Roosevelt’s cheek can drop the value from fifty dollars to ten cents.
Valuable Errors to Look For in 1982 Dimes
While the “No P” 1982 dime is the most famous error of that year (occurring on Philadelphia strikes), the Denver Mint also produced some interesting varieties and errors. Because millions were minted, mistakes were bound to happen.
One common error is the “Dashed D” or a “Filled D” mint mark, where the small letter looks like a solid blob rather than a clear letter. While these are common, they are popular with beginner collectors. More valuable errors include “Off-Center Strikes,” where the coin was not aligned properly with the die. An off-center 1982-D dime can be worth $20 to $100 depending on how much of the date is visible.
Another error to keep an eye out for is a “Broadstrike.” This happens when the coin is struck without the retaining collar, making the dime look wider and flatter than usual. If you find one of these in your pocket, don’t spend it! Tools like CoinHix can help you identify these anomalies before you take them to a dealer.
Comparing 1982-D to the Rare 1982 No P Dime
It is crucial to understand the difference between the Denver (D) coins and the Philadelphia coins from 1982. The 1982-D dime is very common. However, in 1982, the Philadelphia mint forgot to add the “P” mint mark to some of its dies.
This resulted in the “1982 No P Dime,” which is the first U.S. coin mistakenly released without a mint mark. These can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. If your 1982 dime has a “D,” it is not the famous “No P” error. However, a 1982-D in perfect condition can still outperform many other modern coins.
For a comprehensive breakdown, checking the 1982 Roosevelt Dime price guide and error list is highly recommended. Understanding the nuance between mint marks is the first step in becoming a savvy coin hunter.
How to Sell Your 1982-D Roosevelt Dime
If you believe you have a high-grade 1982-D dime or a significant error, you shouldn’t just head to the nearest pawn shop. Pawn shops often offer “melt value” for coins, but since dimes minted after 1964 contain no silver (they are copper-nickel clad), their melt value is only about two cents.
To get the best price, consider these steps:
1. Verify the Grade: Use the CoinHix app to compare your coin against high-resolution images of graded dimes.
2. Consult a Pro: If it looks flawless under a magnifying glass, it might be worth sending to a grading service like PCGS or NGC.
3. Choose the Right Platform: Selling on eBay or at a local coin show is better for coins worth $10 – $50. High-value “Full Band” coins are best sold through reputable auction houses.
Remember that most 1982-D dimes are “pocket change.” But for the dedicated hunter, finding that one perfectly preserved specimen from a year without official mint sets is like finding a needle in a haystack.
| Sales Channel | Best For… | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|
| Local Coin Shop | Quick cash / Common errors | 50-70% of Market Value |
| Online Auctions (eBay) | Mid-range grades (MS65/66) | 80-90% of Market Value |
| Major Auction Houses | High-grade MS67 FB | Top Market Price |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 1982-D Roosevelt Dime silver?
A: No. The U.S. Mint stopped making circulating silver dimes in 1964. All 1982 Roosevelt Dimes are made of a copper-nickel clad composition. If your coin looks exceptionally shiny or silver, it is likely just well-preserved nickel plating.
Q: Why is the 1982-D dime harder to find in mint condition?
A: Because the U.S. Mint did not produce official “Uncirculated Mint Sets” in 1982 or 1983 due to budget cuts. Most coins from these years went directly into bags and were banged around in transit, making “gem” quality coins much rarer than in previous or subsequent years.
Q: What is the highest price ever paid for a 1982-D dime?
A: High-grade specimens of the 1982-D Roosevelt Dime with the Full Bands (FB) designation have sold for over $1,000 at professional auctions. However, these are exceptionally rare and professionally graded by services like PCGS.
Q: Does a 1982-D dime have any special value if it’s worn?
A: Generally, no. If the coin has been in circulation and shows significant wear on Roosevelt’s hair or the torch on the back, it is typically only worth its face value of ten cents. Collectors only pay premiums for coins in “Like New” condition or those with major mint errors.
