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The 1992-S Roosevelt Dime is worth anywhere from $3 in standard proof condition to over $500 for high-grade silver versions. While a dime from 1992 might look like ordinary pocket change, the “S” mint mark signifies a special production meant for collectors rather than daily spending.
| Condition / Type | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| 1992-S Clad Proof (PR69) | $3 – $5 |
| 1992-S Clad Proof (PR70) | $25 – $40 |
| 1992-S Silver Proof (PR69) | $10 – $15 |
| 1992-S Silver Proof (PR70 Deep Cameo) | $150 – $550 |
Understanding the 1992-S Roosevelt Dime Varieties
If you’ve found a shiny 1992 dime with an “S” under the date, you are looking at a Proof coin minted in San Francisco. Unlike the dimes minted in Philadelphia or Denver, these were never intended to circulate in cash registers. Instead, they were sold in protective plastic sets to hobbyists.
To accurately identify your find, using a top coin identifier app is the fastest way to distinguish between the two main types produced that year: the Copper-Nickel Clad version and the 90% Silver version. The appearance is similar, but the value is vastly different.
The 1992-S Clad Dime is composed of a copper core with a nickel coating. These are common and usually worth a few dollars. However, 1992 was a milestone year because the U.S. Mint reintroduced silver proof sets for the first time since 1964. These silver dimes are highly sought after by investors and collectors alike. If you aren’t sure which one you have, the CoinKnow app can help you analyze the luster and edges to make a determination.
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
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Is Your 1992-S Dime Made of Silver?
The most critical factor in the value of a 1992-S Roosevelt Dime is its metal content. That year, the Mint produced roughly 2.8 million clad proofs and about 1.3 million silver proofs. Because the silver version is rarer and contains precious metal, it commands a much higher premium.
You can check the edge of your coin to find a quick answer. A clad dime will show a distinct copper-colored stripe along the rim. A silver dime will have a solid, bright silver edge with no copper visible. If you are examining a silver specimen, you should check the current market rates for 1992 dimes to see how they compare to the standard business strikes from that decade.
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
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Beyond the silver melt value, these coins are valued for their “Deep Cameo” (DCAM) finish. This refers to the sharp contrast between the frosted portrait of FDR and the mirror-like background fields. A perfect specimen is a true prize for any collection.
| Mintage Type | Composition | Rarity |
|---|---|---|
| 1992-S Proof | 91.67% Copper, 8.33% Nickel | Common (2.8M) |
| 1992-S Silver Proof | 90% Silver, 10% Copper | Less Common (1.3M) |
Grading and the Pursuit of Perfection
For the 1992-S Roosevelt Dime, the difference between $10 and $500 comes down to a single grading point. Professional coin graders used the Sheldon Scale, which ranges from 1 to 70. Since proof coins are handled with extreme care at the mint, most “S” mint dimes will grade at PR67 or higher.
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
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A grade of PR69 indicates a coin that is nearly flawless to the naked eye. These are abundant and usually stay under the $20 mark. However, a PR70—a perfect coin—is rare. Even microscopic scratches (hairlines) caused by a soft cloth can keep a coin from reaching that top tier.
Collectors often use CoinKnow to photograph their coins and get a preliminary idea of the strike quality before paying for professional third-party grading. This can save you money by preventing you from grading a coin that isn’t worth the fee. You can also view more detailed 1992 dime value information to see how Philadelphia and Denver business strikes compare in high grades.
What Makes a 1992-S Dime Valuable?
Value in numismatics is driven by a combination of rarity, condition, and demand. For the 1992-S, the “demand” portion is driven by “Registry Set” collectors. These are people who try to build the finest possible collection of a specific series, like Roosevelt Dimes.
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They aren’t looking for a “good” coin; they are looking for the best coin ever found. If a 1992-S Silver Dime is certified as a perfect PR70 Deep Cameo by PCGS or NGC, it often goes up for auction where prices can skyrocket. In recent years, some of these perfect specimens have sold for over $500.
For the average person who finds one of these in an old drawer or a purchased set, the value usually settles in the $5-$15 range. This is still a great return on a coin with a face value of only ten cents! Always keep your proof coins in their original mint packaging or a protective flip to ensure they don’t develop scratches that lower their value.
| Grade (Silver Version) | Estimated Price Range |
|---|---|
| PR65 (Proof-65) | $5 – $8 |
| PR68 (Proof-68) | $10 – $12 |
| PR69 (Proof-69) | $15 – $25 |
| PR70 (Proof-70) | $250 – $600 |
Error Coins and Distinguishing Features
While the 1992-S Roosevelt Dime is primarily known for its silver and clad proof versions, some collectors look for errors. Because proof coins are struck twice with high pressure, errors are very rare. However, they are not impossible.
Common things to look for include “doubled dies.” This happens when the die used to strike the coin has a blurry or doubled image on it. Look closely at the words “LIBERTY” or “IN GOD WE TRUST.” If the letters seem to have a shadow or a distinct second edge, you might have a valuable error.
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
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If you suspect you have an error, the CoinKnow app’s high-resolution identification feature can help you pinpoint subtle differences that the naked eye might miss. Collectors will pay hundreds of dollars for a certified error coin, especially on a proof strike which is supposed to be perfect.
Summary: Should You Hold or Sell?
If you have a 1992-S Clad Dime, it’s a beautiful piece of history but not exactly a retirement fund. It is worth keeping as a conversation piece or as part of a complete set. If you have the Silver version, you are holding a “hard asset” that will always be worth at least its weight in silver bullion.
As the price of silver rises, so does the floor value of the 1992-S Silver Proof Dime. For those lucky enough to have a PR70 specimen, selling at a major auction house might be the best route to maximize your profit. For everyone else, enjoy the beauty of the design and the unique history of the 1992-S.
FAQ
Q: How can I tell if my 1992-S dime is silver?
A: Check the edge of the coin. If it is solid silver-colored with no copper stripe, it is likely the 90% silver version. You can also weigh it; a silver dime weighs 2.50 grams, while a clad dime weighs 2.27 grams.
Your Old Coin Could Be Valuable!
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Q: Is a 1992-P or 1992-D dime worth anything?
A: Most 1992 dimes from Philadelphia (P) or Denver (D) found in circulation are only worth 10 cents. However, if they are in exceptionally perfect condition (MS67 or higher), they can be worth $20 to $50.
Q: Where is the mint mark on a 1992 Roosevelt Dime?
A: The mint mark is located just above the date on the right side of the coin’s face. You will see a small “P,” “D,” or “S.”
Q: Can I find a 1992-S dime in my spare change?
A: It is rare but possible. Occasionally, someone will break open a proof set and spend it as normal money. If you find one in circulation, it will likely be scratched and worth only a few cents more than its face value unless it is the silver version.