The 1986-D Roosevelt Dime is worth anywhere from face value (10 cents) in circulated condition to $5 or more in pristine uncirculated grades — and high-grade examples certified by PCGS or NGC can fetch $20 to $50 or beyond at auction. If you found one of these coins in your pocket change or an old jar, you’re in the right place to find out exactly what you’ve got.
What Makes the 1986-D Roosevelt Dime Special?
The 1986-D Roosevelt Dime was struck at the Denver Mint, indicated by the small “D” mintmark found on the obverse just above the date. In 1986, the Denver Mint produced over 473 million of these dimes — a massive mintage that means they’re not rare by any stretch of the imagination.
Still, that doesn’t mean your coin is worthless. Condition is everything in the coin world. A heavily worn example pulled from circulation will be worth exactly 10 cents, but a coin that was never used — saved from the mint roll the day it was made — can carry a real premium among collectors.
If you’re not sure what you have, using the best coin identifier app on your phone is a fast and reliable way to get started. A quick photo scan can point you in the right direction before you even start researching values.
1986-D Roosevelt Dime Value Chart by Grade
Coin grading uses a scale from 1 to 70. Anything below MS-60 is considered circulated, and anything MS-60 and above is uncirculated (mint state). Here’s a quick breakdown of what the 1986-D is typically worth at different grades:
| Grade | Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| G-4 to VF-35 | Circulated | Face value ($0.10) |
| EF-40 to AU-58 | Lightly Circulated | $0.25 – $0.75 |
| MS-63 | Uncirculated | $1 – $2 |
| MS-65 | Gem Uncirculated | $4 – $8 |
| MS-67 | Superb Gem | $20 – $50+ |
For the most up-to-date auction results and certified coin sales, you can check out detailed 1986-D Roosevelt Dime price data across mint state grades to see exactly how these coins are performing in today’s market.
How to Tell If Your 1986-D Is Worth More Than Face Value
The honest truth is that most 1986-D dimes you pull from your wallet are worth exactly 10 cents. But here’s how to know if yours might be different.
Look closely at the surface of the coin. If it still has a bright, lustrous shine and no scratches, bag marks, or wear on the high points — specifically on Roosevelt’s cheek and hair — there’s a good chance it’s uncirculated. Coins like this are sometimes found in old mint sets or sealed bank rolls.
Next, check for any errors. While no major error varieties are confirmed for the 1986-D, doubled die obverse coins and off-center strikes do turn up occasionally and can be worth significantly more. A loupe or magnifying glass is your best friend here.
The CoinHix app is one of the most popular tools collectors use right now to look up values, track their collection, and spot potential varieties. It’s free, easy to use, and keeps updated pricing — worth downloading before you make any decisions about selling.
Is the 1986-D Roosevelt Dime a Good Coin to Collect?
For casual collectors and beginners, the 1986-D is a great entry point. Because mintage was so high, it’s easy to find in circulation or affordable in uncirculated condition. Completing a full date-and-mintmark set of modern Roosevelt Dimes is a popular goal among everyday collectors.
That said, if you’re looking for coins with real investment potential, condition is king. An MS-67 or MS-68 example is genuinely scarce and commands attention in certified coin auctions. The jump in value from MS-65 to MS-67 can be dramatic — sometimes a tenfold increase.
For a thorough look at the full 1986 dime value breakdown including both Philadelphia and Denver issues, it’s worth doing your research before heading to a coin shop or listing on eBay.
And if you’re building a collection and want a convenient way to track everything in one place, CoinHix offers a clean portfolio tool so you always know what your coins are worth at a glance.
Where to Sell a 1986-D Roosevelt Dime
If your coin grades MS-65 or higher, it’s worth getting it professionally graded by PCGS or NGC before selling. The certification fee pays for itself once buyers see the official grade on the label — it removes all doubt and typically results in a higher sale price.
For lower-grade examples, eBay is perfectly fine. You can find comparable sales in the “sold” listings to set a fair price. Local coin shows and dealers are also a solid option if you want cash on the spot.
Don’t overlook online collector communities either. Forums and Facebook groups dedicated to Roosevelt Dimes are active and friendly — and fellow collectors often pay fair prices because they know exactly what they’re looking at. CoinHix also has a community feature that connects buyers and sellers directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much is a 1986-D Roosevelt Dime worth today?
A: In circulated condition, a 1986-D Roosevelt Dime is worth face value — 10 cents. In uncirculated grades like MS-65, expect $4 to $8. Top-tier MS-67 examples can sell for $20 to $50 or more when certified.
Q: Is the 1986-D dime rare?
A: No, the 1986-D is not rare. Over 473 million were minted at the Denver Mint. However, gem-quality examples in grades MS-67 and above are genuinely scarce and worth seeking out.
Q: What does the “D” mintmark mean on a 1986 Roosevelt Dime?
A: The “D” mintmark stands for Denver, meaning the coin was produced at the U.S. Mint’s Denver facility. You’ll find it on the obverse side of the coin, just above the date to the left.
