A simple Roosevelt Dime , often overlooked in daily change, could be hiding a stunning secret. Coin collectors are buzzing about a rare error version—a clipped planchet Roosevelt dime—that has reportedly sold for up to $400,000 in private auctions. What makes this coin special? It’s a rare minting mistake that slipped through quality control—and it may still be floating around in everyday circulation.
Let’s take a closer look at how to identify this rare dime and why it’s commanding such a jaw-dropping price.
What Is a Clipped Planchet Error?
A clipped planchet occurs when a blank metal disc, called a planchet, is improperly cut during the coin manufacturing process. This results in the coin having a visible “clip” or curved cut-out edge, almost as if someone took a bite out of it.
In most cases, these clipped coins are caught and removed before they reach the public. But on rare occasions, one makes it into circulation unnoticed—making it a jackpot for whoever finds it.
Why the Roosevelt Dime?
The Roosevelt dime has been minted since 1946 and remains a staple in American coinage. But among the billions produced, certain minting errors can turn an ordinary coin into a collector’s dream.
The specific Roosevelt dime turning heads recently is from a batch that features a perfectly curved clipped planchet error. When combined with strong demand and pristine condition, this dime’s value skyrockets—reaching into the six-figure territory.
Real Sales and Record Prices
Though not every clipped planchet dime is worth a fortune, one Roosevelt dime with an extreme curved clip and full mint details was reportedly purchased by a collector for around $400,000.
That sale, while exceptional, has prompted numismatists and casual hobbyists alike to check their spare change. Even less dramatic clipped dimes have fetched thousands of dollars depending on rarity, date, and condition.
How to Spot a Clipped Planchet Dime
You don’t need to be a coin expert to identify this rare minting error. Here are a few things to look for:
- Curved Clip: A crescent-shaped section missing from the edge of the coin.
- Blunted Rim: The rim near the clip may appear incomplete or unusually flat.
- Misaligned Lettering: Nearby text might appear warped or shifted.
- Die Adjustment Marks: Sometimes, the printing or stamp will be slightly off near the clipped edge.
Pro tip: Hold the coin under a bright light and tilt it to inspect all angles. Use a magnifying glass to closely examine the details.
Condition Matters—So Does Certification
If you believe you’ve found a clipped planchet Roosevelt dime, don’t clean or alter it. Even slight polishing can reduce its value dramatically.
Instead, send it to a certified grading service like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company) for authentication. Grading not only verifies the error but also determines its condition—crucial in setting the final value.
Could One Be in Your Pocket?
While it’s rare, the possibility exists. Clipped planchet dimes have been reported in circulation as recently as last year. Grocery stores, vending machines, and coin rolls from banks could still contain these hidden treasures.
With billions of coins moving daily across the U.S., even a few overlooked errors can slip past unnoticed. This is what makes the search so exciting—and potentially profitable.
Final Thoughts
The Roosevelt dime with a clipped planchet error stands as a remarkable example of how small minting mistakes can lead to massive payoffs. As coins with these types of flaws continue to fetch record prices, collectors are watching their change more closely than ever.
So before you drop that dime into a tip jar, give it a second look. You might be holding something far more valuable than ten cents—maybe even $400,000 worth.
