The 1995-S Roosevelt Dime is worth anywhere from $3 in standard proof condition to over $1,200 for rare “Deep Cameo” specimens in perfect grade. If you’ve found a shiny dime with an “S” mint mark, you’re holding a coin produced specifically for collectors rather than general circulation.
| Grade/Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| PR 65 (Standard Proof) | $3.00 – $5.00 |
| PR 69 Deep Cameo | $15.00 – $25.00 |
| PR 70 Deep Cameo (Perfect) | $150.00 – $1,200.00 |
| Silver Proof (90% Silver) | $10.00 – $45.00 |
What Makes the 1995-S Proof Roosevelt Dime Special?
To identify if your coin is a 1995-S, the first thing to look for is the small “S” mint mark located just above the date. This indicates the coin was struck at the San Francisco Mint. Unlike the millions of dimes made in Philadelphia or Denver for pocket change, the San Francisco Mint produced “Proof” coins. These were intended for annual collector sets and feature a mirror-like finish.
If you aren’t sure if your coin is a proof or just a very shiny regular strike, you can use a top coin identifier app to get an instant analysis. To achieve their signature look, proof dies are polished to a high sheen, and the coin blanks are struck at least twice. This creates sharp, frosted details against a flat, reflective background.
Because these coins were sold in protective plastic lenses, finding a 1995-S in your spare change is rare. Usually, it means someone broke open a proof set to spend the money. While circulated versions lose much of their premium, they are still considered “NIFC” (Not Intended For Circulation). Using CoinKnow can help you track if your specific find has any surface marks that might lower its hobbyist value.
The Difference Between Clad and Silver 1995-S Dimes
In 1995, the San Francisco Mint produced two distinct types of dimes. One is a copper-nickel “clad” version, and the other is a 90% silver version. Knowing the difference is crucial because the silver version has an inherent “melt value” that makes it worth more than the face value of ten cents, regardless of its collector appeal.
The easiest way to tell is to look at the edge of the coin. If you see a copper-colored stripe, it is a standard clad dime. If the edge is solid silver/white, you likely have the 90% silver proof. The silver version was only available in the “Silver Proof Set.” If you are curious about how these compare to standard business strikes, check out the 1995-P Roosevelt Dime MS price data for coins intended for daily use.
| Composition Type | Weight | Average Value (PR69) |
|---|---|---|
| 1995-S Clad Proof | 2.27 grams | $5.00 |
| 1995-S Silver Proof | 2.50 grams | $15.00 |
Determining the Grade of Your 1995-S Roosevelt Dime
In the world of coin collecting, the condition is everything. Coins are graded on a scale from 1 to 70. For proof coins like the 1995-S, we usually only care about grades between 60 and 70. A “PR70” is a perfect coin with no visible flaws even under 5x magnification. These are extremely rare and command the highest prices.
Most 1995-S dimes found today will grade at PR67 or PR68. At these levels, the coin is attractive but might have tiny “hairlines” or milk spots—cloudy white patches that sometimes form on the surface during the minting process. If you find a coin that looks flawless, it is worth consulting a guide on 1995 Roosevelt dime worth and grading to see if it’s worth sending to a professional service like PCGS or NGC.
When assessing your coin, look for the “Cameo” (CAM) or “Deep Cameo” (DCAM) designation. This refers to the contrast between the frosted portrait of FDR and the mirror-like field. A Deep Cameo 1995-S is the gold standard for enthusiasts. CoinKnow provides a high-resolution gallery so you can compare your coin’s frostiness to certified examples.
Market Trends and Auction Records
While most 1995-S dimes are affordable, history shows that “Top Pop” (highest population) coins can skyrocket at auction. For example, a perfect PR70 Deep Cameo clad dime once sold for over $500, while silver versions in perfect condition have fetched significantly more. Because 1995 isn’t considered a “key date” (a rare year), supply is generally high, keeping prices stable for average collectors.
The 1995-S mintage for the clad proof was approximately 2,100,000, while the silver proof saw a lower mintage of about 837,000. This lower supply for the silver version ensures it always carries a premium. If you are looking to sell, it’s best to group them into full years or sets unless you have a certified PR70 coin.
| Mintage Type | Total Struck | Rarity Level |
|---|---|---|
| 1995-S Clad | 2,100,334 | Common |
| 1995-S Silver | 837,968 | Scarce |
How to Store and Protect Your 1995-S Dime
If you’ve discovered your 1995-S Roosevelt Dime is in great shape, you must protect it from the elements. Proof surfaces are incredibly sensitive. Even a single fingerprint can leave oils that eventually eat into the metal, causing permanent “toning” or damage. This can drastically reduce the coin’s resale value.
Place your dime in a PVC-free plastic flip or a cardboard “2×2” holder. Avoid touching the face of the coin; always hold it by the edges. If you have several coins and want to keep track of their value over time, using an app like CoinKnow allows you to digitally catalog your collection. This is a great way to stay organized and know exactly what your “treasure chest” is worth at any given moment.
Keep your collection in a cool, dry place. Humidity is the enemy of copper-nickel and silver alike. Many collectors use silica gel packets in their storage boxes to wick away moisture. While a 1995-S might not be the most expensive coin in the world today, preserving its “Deep Cameo” finish ensures it remains a beautiful piece of American history for the next generation.
FAQ
Q: Is a 1995-S Roosevelt Dime made of real silver?
A: It depends on the version. The San Francisco Mint produced both a copper-nickel clad version and a 90% silver version in 1995. You can check the edge of the coin: a copper stripe means it’s clad, while a solid silver edge means it’s 90% silver.
Q: Can I find a 1995-S dime in my pocket change?
A: It is possible but unlikely. Since these were only sold in proof sets to collectors, they were never intended for circulation. If you find one, a collector likely spent it by accident or out of necessity.
Q: What is the highest price ever paid for a 1995-S dime?
A: While prices fluctuate, a 1995-S Silver Roosevelt Dime graded PCGS PR70 DCAM has sold for prices upwards of $1,000 at major auctions due to its perfection and rare Deep Cameo frost.
Q: Why does my 1995 dime have no mint mark?
A: If your 1995 dime has no mint mark, it was struck at the Philadelphia Mint. These are very common and usually only worth their face value of ten cents unless they are in exceptional uncirculated condition.