1959 Roosevelt Dime Value Guide

The 1959 Roosevelt Dime is a highly collectible piece of American numismatic history, primarily sought after for its 90% silver composition. Issued as part of the series honoring President Franklin D. Roosevelt's legacy and his work with the March of Dimes, this specific year represents the late silver era before the transition to clad coinage.

What affects the value of 1959 Roosevelt Dime?

• The current market price of silver bullion significantly dictates the baseline 'melt value' of this 90% silver coin.
• The presence of a 'Full Torch' (FT) or 'Full Bands' (FB) on the reverse can significantly increase the value for high-grade specimens.
• Overall strike quality and the absence of circulation wear, such as scratches or dulling, determine if the coin reaches the upper $5 price range.
• The specific mint mark, as Denver (D) and Philadelphia (no mark) had different mintage numbers that can influence rarity in top conditions.

How to Identify 1959 Roosevelt Dime?

• Verify the 90% silver and 10% copper composition, which gives the coin a distinct metallic ring compared to modern clad dimes.
• Check the reverse side for the torch, olive branch, and oak branch symbols, ensuring the details are crisp and not excessively worn.
• Look for the 'D' mint mark above the torch on the reverse to identify coins struck at the Denver Mint, or the absence of a mark for Philadelphia.
• Confirm the 1959 date on the obverse, located just below Roosevelt's chin.

History of 1959 Roosevelt Dime

The Roosevelt Dime was first issued in 1946, shortly after President Franklin D. Roosevelt's death, to honor his efforts in founding the March of Dimes, an organization dedicated to fighting polio. The coin features his profile on the obverse and a torch, olive branch, and oak branch on the reverse, symbolizing liberty, peace, and strength, respectively. Dimes minted between 1946 and 1964 contain 90% silver, making them particularly sought after by collectors and investors for their intrinsic metal value.