1993 S Roosevelt Dime Value Guide and Mint Mark History

The 1993 S Roosevelt Dime is worth anywhere from $3 in standard proof condition to over $100 for high-grade Deep Cameo specimens. While you won’t find this specific coin in your pocket change, many Americans discover them while clearing out inherited collections or old storage boxes.

Understanding the Special Status of the 1993 S Roosevelt Dime

If you have a 1993 dime with an “S” mint mark, you are holding a “Proof” coin. Unlike the dimes minted in Philadelphia (P) or Denver (D) for daily commerce, the San Francisco Mint produced these specifically for collectors. These coins feature a mirror-like background and frosted details, making them stand out significantly from a regular ten-cent piece. Because they were never intended to be spent, finding one in a coin jar usually means someone broke open a specialized government set.

When you are trying to identify high-potential finds in a large collection, using a top coin identifier app can save you hours of manual research. The 1993-S was part of the annual Proof Set and the Silver Proof Set. This means there are actually two distinct versions of the “S” dime from this year: one made of the standard copper-nickel “clad” composition and one made of 90% silver. Distinguishing between the two is the first step in determining the true market value of your discovery.

If you find that your dime does not have an “S” mint mark but rather a “P” or “D,” you can check the specific 1993 P Roosevelt Dime auction records to see how those circulated versions compare. Most 1993 dimes from general circulation are only worth their face value of ten cents, which is why the “S” versions are so much more exciting for the average hobbyist.

Differentiating Between Clad and Silver Proof Dimes

The San Francisco Mint produced 3,392,556 clad proof dimes and 761,353 silver proof dimes in 1993. The value difference between these two is notable. The clad version consists of a copper core sandwiched between layers of nickel, while the silver version contains 0.07234 troy ounces of pure silver. To the untrained eye, they look identical, but a simple specialized scale or the “tissue test” can reveal the truth. Silver dimes have a pure white edge, whereas clad dimes show a distinct copper-colored stripe along the rim.

Many enthusiasts use the CoinKnow app to quickly verify these metallic compositions by comparing their coins to high-resolution reference images. If you happen to have the silver version, its value is tied both to its numismatic rarity and the current spot price of silver. Even if the coin is somewhat hazy or toned, the silver content ensures it will always be worth significantly more than ten cents.

For those who find they have a Denver-minted coin instead of an “S” mint, tracking the 1993 dime value across different mint marks is essential for a complete understanding of your collection. While the San Francisco coins are the “gems” of the year, certain high-grade Denver or Philadelphia coins can occasionally fetch surprising prices if they are in “Mint State” condition.

Detailed 1993 S Roosevelt Dime Value Chart

When valuing these coins, professional graders use a scale from 1 to 70. For proof coins, the designation “PR” (Proof) or “PF” is used. Most coins found in original government packaging will grade between PR67 and PR69. A PR70—representing a perfect coin with no visible flaws under 5x magnification—is the holy grail for collectors and carries a significant price premium.

Condition / Grade	1993-S Clad Proof Value	1993-S Silver Proof Value
PR 65 (Typical Proof)	$2.50 – $4.00	$8.00 – $12.00
PR 68 (Near Perfect)	$6.00 – $9.00	$15.00 – $20.00
PR 69 (Superb Gem)	$12.00 – $18.00	$25.00 – $35.00
PR 70 DCAM (Flawless)	$45.00 – $65.00	$110.00 – $150.00

The Importance of the Deep Cameo (DCAM) Designation

You may notice the term “Deep Cameo” or “Ultra Cameo” in valuation guides. This refers to the visual contrast on the coin’s surface. In 1993, the San Francisco Mint was very proficient at creating this effect, where the portrait of Franklin D. Roosevelt looks like a frosted white sculpture floating on a black, watery mirror. If your 1993 S Roosevelt Dime lacks this contrast and looks “brilliant” or shiny all over, it is generally less desirable to serious collectors.

The CoinKnow app can help you identify if your coin qualifies for the DCAM designation by providing side-by-side visual comparisons. Storing these coins properly is vital; if you touch the surface with your fingers, the oils from your skin can permanently damage the frosted finish, instantly lowering the grade and value. Always handle proof dimes by their edges to preserve their “Superb Gem” status.

While the 1993-S isn’t a “lottery ticket” coin that will allow you to retire, it is a beautiful piece of American history. For many, finding these coins serves as an entry point into the world of numismatics. Whether you have the common clad version or the more valuable silver strike, these dimes represent a year of high-quality production at the San Francisco Mint.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I find a 1993 S Roosevelt Dime in my pocket change?

A: It is very rare. Because these were sold in sets to collectors, they do not circulate. If you find one in change, it is called an “impaired proof,” meaning someone likely spent it by accident. In that case, its value drops significantly due to scratches and wear.

Q: How can I tell if my 1993-S is the silver version without a scale?

A: Look at the edge of the coin. If you see a solid silver-colored edge with no copper stripe, it is likely the 90% silver version. You can also perform a “ping test” by gently tapping it (be careful!); silver has a higher, longer ring than copper-nickel.

Q: What is the most expensive 1993-S dime ever sold?

A: Top-tier specimens graded PR70 Deep Cameo by services like PCGS or NGC can sell for $150 or more at prestige auctions. The value depends heavily on the slab and the perfection of the coin’s surface.

Q: Should I get my 1993 S Roosevelt Dime graded?

A: Generally, it is only worth professional grading if the coin appears absolutely perfect. Since the cost of grading is often $20-$30 per coin, the coin should have a market value of at least $50 to make the investment worthwhile. Using CoinKnow to pre-screen your coins is a smart way to avoid unnecessary grading fees.