The 2019-S Roosevelt Dime is worth anywhere from $5 in proof condition to over $50 in top-tier silver formats. While a standard dime from this year in your pocket change is usually only worth its face value, those marked with the “S” mint mark carry a special premium for collectors.
The Distinctive Nature of the 2019 S Mint Mark
If you have found a 2019 dime featuring a small “S” above the date, you have uncovered a coin that was never intended for general circulation. These coins were minted in San Francisco specifically for collectors. Unlike the billions of dimes struck in Philadelphia or Denver, the San Francisco mint produced these in much smaller quantities and with a higher level of detail.
To quickly learn more about your coin’s specifics, you can use a free coin identifier app to see if you have a standard proof or a special anniversary edition. The 2019-S dimes were struck using polished dies and planchets, resulting in a mirror-like field and frosted devices. In the numismatic world, this is known as a Deep Cameo (DCAM) finish.
If you are unsure of what you have, the CoinHix app can help you categorize your find by analyzing the luster and strike quality. Because these coins were sold in sets, finding one in wild circulation is rare, and it usually means a collector’s set was broken open and spent by mistake.
Evaluating the Clad vs Silver Variations
It is important to understand that the U.S. Mint produced two distinct versions of the 2019-S Roosevelt Dime. The first is the standard copper-nickel “clad” proof. These are common in hobbyist circles and generally trade for a few dollars. However, the second version is far more desirable.
In 2019, the Mint transitioned its “Silver Proof” sets from 90% silver to .999 fine silver. This makes the 2019-S silver dime slightly heavier and significantly more valuable than its clad counterpart. You can check the current market rates for the high-grade 2019 Roosevelt Dime prices to see how much of a premium these silver strikes currently command.
Most casual hunters use CoinHix to keep track of the silver spot price alongside their coin values, as the intrinsic metal value of a .999 silver dime provides a solid “floor” for its total price. Even if the coin isn’t a rare grade, it will always be worth at least its weight in silver.
Understanding Grading and Market Value
When determining the 2019 Roosevelt Dime value, condition is everything. Coins are graded on a scale of 1 to 70. Since most 2019-S dimes were protected in plastic cases by the Mint, many survive in PR69 or PR70 condition.
A PR70 (Proof 70) is a “perfect” coin under 5x magnification. These can fetch higher prices at auction because collectors of modern sets strive for perfection. If your coin has scratches, fingerprints, or “hazing” (a cloudy film that develops on silver), the value will drop toward the lower end of the spectrum.
| Dime Type | Condition / Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 2019-S Clad Proof | PR65 to PR69 | $3.00 – $7.00 |
| 2019-S Clad Proof | PR70 DCAM | $15.00 – $25.00 |
| 2019-S Silver Proof (.999) | PR69 DCAM | $12.00 – $18.00 |
| 2019-S Silver Proof (.999) | PR70 DCAM | $45.00 – $60.00 |
| 2019-W Reverse Proof | PR70 (Special Release) | $25.00 – $40.00 |
The Mystery of the 2019 W Mint Mark
While the “S” mint mark is common in proof sets, 2019 also saw the release of a very special Roosevelt Dime from the West Point Mint. These “W” dimes were included as a bonus in standard proof sets and feature a “Reverse Proof” finish, where the background is frosted and the portrait of FDR is shiny.
This variation is highly sought after by enthusiasts who use CoinHix to scan their collections. If you find a 2019 dime and the mint mark is a “W” instead of an “S” or “P/D,” you have found a coin that was part of a limited-time promotion. These coins are often worth significantly more than the standard 2019-S clad proof because they were only available for one year in a specific set.
Building a complete set of 2019 dimes requires finding the P, D, S (Clad), S (Silver), and the elusive W. Keeping these in their original protective holders is the best way to ensure they retain their maximum market value over time.
Frequently Asked Questions about the 2019-S Dime
Q: Can I find a 2019-S Roosevelt Dime in my pocket change?
A: It is very rare but possible. Since these were only sold in collector sets, one found in circulation was likely spent by someone who didn’t realize its value. If found in change, it will likely be “impaired,” meaning it has scratches that lower its value to around $1 to $2.
Q: How can I tell if my 2019-S dime is silver or clad?
A: The easiest way is to look at the edge of the coin. If you see a solid silver color, it is likely the .999 silver version. If you see a copper-colored stripe around the edge, it is a standard clad proof. You can also weigh them; a silver dime weighs 2.53 grams, while a clad dime weighs 2.27 grams.
Q: Is a 2019-P or 2019-D dime worth anything?
A: Unless they are in absolutely flawless, high-grade condition (usually MS67 or higher), 2019-P and 2019-D dimes are only worth their face value of ten cents. Billions were made for everyday commerce.
