1983-P Roosevelt Dime : A Collector’s Guide:- The 1983-P Roosevelt Dime is an often overlooked coin in the world of numismatics, but it holds a unique place in U.S. coin collecting. As part of the Roosevelt Dime series, which began in 1946 to honor President Franklin D.
Roosevelt, the 1983-P issue stands out due to its role in the history of U.S. minting and its relevance to collectors today. In this collector’s guide, we’ll explore the history, features, value, and factors that make the 1983-P Roosevelt Dime an interesting coin for collectors.
History of the Roosevelt Dime
The Roosevelt Dime was introduced in 1946, following the death of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who had led the country through the Great Depression and World War II. The coin was designed by artist John R.
Sinnock, who had also created the design for the Roosevelt Half Dollar. The dime was chosen to honor Roosevelt due to his significant contributions to the country, especially his efforts in establishing the March of Dimes foundation to fight polio.
The Roosevelt Dime has gone through various design changes over the years, but its general appearance has remained consistent.
The obverse (front) features a left-facing profile of President Roosevelt, while the reverse depicts a torch, olive branch, and oak branch, symbolizing liberty, peace, and strength.
The 1983-P Roosevelt Dime is part of the regular issue coins minted by the U.S. Mint, which were struck at the Philadelphia Mint (denoted by the “P” mintmark).
The coin is made of a cupronickel composition, containing 91.67% copper and 8.33% nickel, which has been the standard for Roosevelt Dimes since 1965.
Key Features of the 1983-P Roosevelt Dime
To better understand the 1983-P Roosevelt Dime, let’s take a closer look at its key features:
- Obverse Design:
- The obverse of the 1983-P Roosevelt Dime features a left-facing portrait of President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
- The words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” are inscribed above and below his image, respectively.
- The mint year, “1983,” is located beneath the portrait, with the “P” mintmark to the left of the date.
- Reverse Design:
- The reverse of the coin features a torch (representing liberty), an olive branch (symbolizing peace), and an oak branch (symbolizing strength).
- The words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM” surround the central design.
- “ONE DIME” is inscribed at the bottom, indicating the coin’s value.
- Composition:
- The 1983-P Roosevelt Dime is made of 91.67% copper and 8.33% nickel, a cupronickel alloy. This alloy provides durability and resistance to corrosion, making it well-suited for circulation.
- Diameter and Weight:
- The coin has a diameter of 17.91 millimeters (0.705 inches) and weighs 2.27 grams (0.08 ounces).
- This size and weight have been consistent for Roosevelt Dimes since the coin’s introduction in 1946.
- Minting and Circulation:
- The “P” mintmark indicates that the coin was struck at the Philadelphia Mint.
- In 1983, over 700 million dimes were minted, making it one of the most common dimes in circulation. However, despite its abundance, the coin is still sought after by collectors due to its historical significance.
Value of the 1983-P Roosevelt Dime
While the 1983-P Roosevelt Dime is not rare, its value to collectors can vary based on several factors, including condition, demand, and any special attributes the coin may have.
- Face Value:
- In general, the 1983-P Roosevelt Dime is worth its face value of 10 cents when found in circulation or in average condition.
- Uncirculated Coins:
- Uncirculated coins, or those that have never been used in commerce, can command a higher price than coins with wear. A 1983-P Roosevelt Dime in MS 63 (Mint State 63) condition, for example, might be worth around $1 to $2.
- If the coin is graded higher, such as MS 65 or above, it could be worth a bit more—perhaps $5 to $10, depending on market conditions.
- Proof Coins:
- Proof coins, which are specially struck for collectors and have a higher level of detail and a mirror-like finish, were also produced in 1983. While these coins typically command a premium, they are usually struck in smaller quantities than regular circulating coins.
- A proof 1983-P Roosevelt Dime can sell for between $5 and $15, depending on its grade and packaging.
- Special Varieties and Errors:
- As with many coins, rare varieties or minting errors can significantly increase the value of a 1983-P Roosevelt Dime. For example, coins with die cracks, double strikes, or other minting anomalies can be worth more to collectors.
- However, such errors are relatively rare in the 1983-P series, and the value of error coins will depend on the severity and uniqueness of the flaw.
- Market Trends:
- The value of the 1983-P Roosevelt Dime can fluctuate based on market demand and broader trends in the numismatic world. For example, silver prices and the popularity of coin collecting may influence prices over time.
Factors That Impact the Value of the 1983-P Roosevelt Dime
Several factors can affect the value of a 1983-P Roosevelt Dime, both in terms of its intrinsic worth and its appeal to collectors:
- Condition (Grade):
- The condition of the coin plays a major role in determining its value. Coins that are in pristine condition with minimal wear and no significant flaws are valued higher than coins with heavy circulation wear or damage.
- Coins are typically graded on a scale from 1 to 70, with higher grades indicating better condition. A coin graded as MS 65 or higher may command a higher premium.
- Rarity:
- While the 1983-P Roosevelt Dime is not particularly rare, certain low mintage years or special circumstances can make certain coins more valuable. The rarity of a coin, especially in high-grade condition, increases its value.
- Demand and Popularity:
- The demand for Roosevelt Dimes, as well as the overall popularity of U.S. coinage, plays a significant role in determining the value of specific coins. Some collectors may focus on specific years or mint marks, which can drive prices up if demand increases.
- Error Coins:
- Coins with minting errors, such as off-center strikes, double strikes, or die cracks, are highly prized by error coin collectors. If your 1983-P Roosevelt Dime has an unusual flaw, it may be worth considerably more than a typical example.
- Silver or Copper Content:
- Though the 1983-P Roosevelt Dime is made of cupronickel, its value is primarily driven by its status as a collectible coin rather than by its metal content. Unlike silver coins, which are valued based on the spot price of silver, cupronickel coins do not have intrinsic metal value beyond the numismatic market.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Face Value | 10 cents (Dime) |
| Mint Year | 1983 |
| Mintmark | “P” (Philadelphia Mint) |
| Composition | 91.67% copper, 8.33% nickel (cupronickel) |
| Diameter | 17.91 mm (0.705 inches) |
| Weight | 2.27 grams (0.08 ounces) |
| Obverse Design | Left-facing portrait of Franklin D. Roosevelt |
| Reverse Design | Torch, olive branch, and oak branch (symbolizing liberty, peace, strength) |
| Mintage | Over 700 million dimes minted in 1983 |
| Value | Typically face value (~10 cents); higher for uncirculated or proof coins |
| Uncirculated Coin Value | $1 – $2 (MS 63); $5 – $10 (MS 65 or higher) |
| Proof Coin Value | $5 – $15 (depending on condition) |
| Error Coins | Mint errors (e.g., double strikes, die cracks) can increase value |
| Factors Affecting Value | Condition (grade), demand, rarity, minting errors |
What is the value of a 1983-P Roosevelt Dime?
A: A 1983-P Roosevelt Dime is generally worth face value (10 cents) unless it is in uncirculated condition, proof quality, or has rare features (such as mint errors). High-grade examples can range from $1 to $10, and proof coins may be worth $5 to $15.
Is the 1983-P Roosevelt Dime made of silver?
A: No, the 1983-P Roosevelt Dime is made of cupronickel, which is 91.67% copper and 8.33% nickel. It does not contain any silver.
How can I tell if my 1983-P Roosevelt Dime is in uncirculated condition?
A: Uncirculated coins will show no signs of wear, with sharp details and no scratches or scuffs. The coin should also have a mint luster, which is a shiny, reflective finish, and it should not have been used in circulation.
Are there any special features that make the 1983-P Roosevelt Dime valuable?
A: The 1983-P Roosevelt Dime is not particularly rare, but coins with minting errors or in exceptional condition may be worth more. For example, double strikes, die cracks, or off-center errors can increase the value of the coin.
Where can I sell my 1983-P Roosevelt Dime?
A: You can sell your 1983-P Roosevelt Dime to coin dealers, through online marketplaces, or at coin shows. Be sure to get a proper grade for your coin before selling to understand its full value.
also see : The 1976 Bicentennial Quarters: Are They Worth More Than Face Value?