The 2011-S Silver Roosevelt Dime is a unique modern coin that often surprises people when they find it in an old collection or a misplaced proof set. Unlike the dimes you find in your pocket change today, this specific version was struck in 90% silver at the San Francisco Mint. It was never intended for circulation, which makes it a “collector only” issue. Because of its silver content and its status as a proof coin, it carries a premium over its ten-cent face value. If you are unsure whether your dime is the silver version or the standard copper-nickel version, using a CoinKnow tool can help you identify the distinct mirrored finish of a proof coin.
How to Identify a 2011 S Silver Roosevelt Dime
Identifying this coin requires looking for two specific features. First, you must check for the “S” mint mark located right above the date on the obverse (the face side) of the coin. This confirms it was minted in San Francisco. However, not all 2011-S dimes are silver. The U.S. Mint produced both a standard copper-nickel clad proof and a 90% silver proof. To tell them apart, look at the edge of the coin. If you see a solid silver-colored edge with no copper stripe, you likely have the silver version.
To get an accurate appraisal of your find, many collectors use a top coin identifier app to compare their coin against high-resolution images of known silver proofs. The 2011-S silver dime weighs approximately 2.50 grams, which is slightly more than the 2.27 grams of a standard clad dime. Using a digital scale can provide the definitive proof you need before you decide to sell or trade your coin.
Current Market Value and Pricing Tiers
The value of the 2011-S Silver Roosevelt Dime is tied to two main factors: the spot price of silver and the numismatic grade. Because these coins were sold in protective plastic “lenses” as part of annual Silver Proof Sets, most remain in excellent condition. A standard “Proof 69” specimen might sell for about $8 to $12, while a perfect “Proof 70 Deep Cameo” (DCAM) can fetch significantly more. Even if the coin has been handled and shows light scratches, it will always be worth at least its weight in silver.
When researching the market, it is helpful to look at comprehensive price guides. For instance, the current market value for high-grade 2011 dimes shows how the condition impacts the premium. While the S-mint proof is the most valuable for this year, knowing the baseline for all 2011 variations helps put the silver version’s rarity into perspective. Collectors often use the CoinKnow app to track auction results and see how prices fluctuate week to week.
| Coin Grade / Condition | Estimated Value (USD) |
|---|---|
| Raw/Melt Value (Silver Weight) | $2.00 – $3.00 (Varies) |
| PR67 (Deep Cameo) | $5.00 – $7.00 |
| PR69 (Near Perfect) | $10.00 – $15.00 |
| PR70 (Perfect Grade) | $40.00 – $55.00 |
Collecting the 2011 Roosevelt Dime Series
The 2011 Roosevelt dime was produced at three different locations: Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. While the silver proof is the most coveted by silver stackers, the Philadelphia (P) and Denver (D) strikes are necessary for anyone building a complete “business strike” set. You might find a detailed breakdown of the 2011 Roosevelt dime’s worth across all mint marks online. This allows you to differentiate between a common dime found in a vending machine and a rare silver proof found in a relative’s estate.
If you are just starting your collection, the 2011-S Silver Dime is a fantastic entry-point. It is relatively affordable compared to dimes from the 1940s, yet it offers the beauty of a modern proof finish. These coins feature the “Deep Cameo” effect, where the frosted portrait of FDR stands out sharply against a pitch-black, mirror-like background. Maintaining this finish is key; even a single fingerprint can lower the grade and value of the coin. Many hobbyists rely on the CoinKnow platform to learn proper handling and storage techniques to preserve their silver investments.
Factors That Affect Rare Dime Prices
Beyond the silver content, several nuances can drive the price of a 2011-S Silver Roosevelt Dime higher. Error coins, though rare in modern proof sets, are highly sought after. If you notice a “doubled die” where the lettering or the date appears to be stamped twice, your coin’s value could skyrocket into the hundreds of dollars. Additionally, “toning”—which is a natural oxidation that creates a rainbow of colors on the silver surface—can sometimes attract a premium from specialized collectors who find the colors aesthetically pleasing.
Always remember that the coin market is dictated by supply and demand. The mintage for the 2011-S Silver Dime was approximately 574,175. While this might sound like a large number, it is quite small when compared to the hundreds of millions of dimes minted for general circulation in Philadelphia and Denver. This scarcity is what keeps the silver proof dime relevant in the eyes of investors and numismatists alike. Keeping an eye on gold and silver spot prices will also give you a better idea of the “floor” price of your coin at any given time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is every 2011-S dime made of silver?
A: No. The San Francisco Mint produced two types of proof dimes in 2011. One is a copper-nickel clad version, and the other is the 90% silver version. You can check the edge or weight to tell them apart.
Q: Where can I sell my 2011-S Silver Roosevelt Dime?
A: You can sell your dime to local coin shops, through online auction sites like eBay, or at regional coin shows. If the coin is graded PR70 by a service like PCGS or NGC, it is often best to sell through a specialized numismatic auction house.
Q: How much silver is in a 2011 silver dime?
A: A 2011-S Silver Roosevelt Dime contains 0.07234 troy ounces of pure silver. Its value will always be at least equal to the current market price of that amount of silver.
Q: Should I clean my dime to make it worth more?
A: Never clean a proof coin. Cleaning creates microscopic scratches that permanently destroy the “mirror” finish and significantly reduce the coin’s value to collectors. If the coin is dusty, it is best to leave it as is or consult a professional.
