The 1968-D Roosevelt Dime is worth anywhere from $0.10 in worn condition to over $1,200 for rare high-grade specimens. While most of these coins you find in your spare change are only worth their face value, rare errors and pristine mint states can command a significant premium from collectors.

Understanding the Basics of the 1968-D Roosevelt Dime

If you have just discovered a 1968-D dime in your jar of coins, the first thing to know is that this coin is part of the “clad” era. Before 1965, dimes were made of 90% silver, but by 1968, the United States Mint had fully transitioned to a composition of copper and nickel. The “D” mint mark indicates that the coin was produced at the Denver Mint. In that year, Denver struck over 480 million of these dimes, making them extremely common in everyday circulation.

Because they are so common, most circulated examples are only worth ten cents. However, the market for these coins changes when you look at uncirculated examples. If you want a fast way to check your change, using a top coin identifier app can help you distinguish between a common spender and a potential treasure. For the casual collector, a CoinHix search can quickly reveal if your coin has features that collectors are currently fighting over in online auctions.

When evaluating these coins, the luster is the most important factor. A 1968-D dime that still looks like it just came from the bank—with no scratches or wear on Roosevelt’s cheek—is the starting point for real value. Most hobbyists find that while the silver is gone, the historical significance of the post-silver era keeps these coins relevant in most American collections.

1968-D Dime Value and Grading Price Chart

To get a better idea of what your coin might be worth at a local coin shop or online, it is helpful to look at the market averages based on the condition (grade) of the coin. Below is a breakdown of the current market trends for the Denver-minted 1968 dime.

Condition / Grade	Estimated Market Value
Circulated (Average Wear)	$0.10 – $0.15
About Uncirculated (AU58)	$0.25 – $0.50
Mint State 63 (MS63)	$2.00 – $5.00
Mint State 65 (Gem Grade)	$15.00 – $30.00
Mint State 67+ (Elite Grade)	$150.00 – $600.00+
1968-D Double Die Reverse Error	$50.00 – $200.00

Check the latest 1968-D Roosevelt dime price data to see if your specific coin matches recent auction records for high-grade specimens.

The Importance of Full Torch Lines

In the world of dime collecting, the “Full Torch” (FT) or “Full Bands” (FB) designation is the holy grail. On the reverse of the 1968-D Roosevelt Dime, you will see a torch symbolizing liberty. There are horizontal bands at the top and bottom of the torch. In most cases, these bands are weakly struck and look blurry or flat.

If you find a 1968-D dime where these horizontal lines are perfectly sharp and separated, the value of the coin skyrockets. A standard MS66 dime might be worth $25, but an MS66 with Full Torch details can sell for hundreds of dollars. Collectors value the strike quality because it shows the minting equipment was perfectly calibrated.

Using the CoinHix app can help you zoom in on these tiny details to see if your coin qualifies for this designation. Most people overlook this feature, which is why “cherrypicking” through old rolls of dimes can sometimes result in a massive payday. If you are curious about how these details affect the bottom line, you can find additional 1968 dime value information that highlights the disparity between standard strikes and Full Torch examples.

Rare Errors and Varieties to Watch For

Beyond the condition of the coin, errors are the most exciting part of “coin hunting.” In 1968, the Denver Mint produced millions of coins, and occasionally, the machinery failed. One of the most common errors to look for is the “Clipped Planchet,” where the coin looks like a bite was taken out of the side. These are worth roughly $10 to $30 depending on the size of the clip.

Another notable variety is the Double Die Reverse (DDR). This occurs when the die used to stamp the coin has a doubled image. On a 1968-D dime, look closely at the lettering of “E PLURIBUS UNUM” or the torch itself. If you see a clear doubling of the letters, you have found a coin worth much more than its face value.

Die cracks and “cuds” are also found on 1968 dimes. A die crack appears as a raised line of metal on the surface of the coin, caused by the minting die breaking under pressure. While small cracks don’t add much value, large, dramatic cracks are highly sought after by error specialists. Keeping a sharp eye on your pocket change and utilizing CoinHix to compare your finds against known error catalogs is the best way to ensure you don’t spend a small fortune.

How to Care for Your 1968-D Roosevelt Dime

If you believe you have a valuable dime, the first rule is: do not clean it! This is the most common mistake made by everyday Americans who find an old coin. Cleaning a coin with polish or even soap and water creates microscopic scratches that degrade the surface and destroy the “original mint luster.” Collectors prefer a coin with natural toning or even a bit of dirt over a coin that has been artificially shined.

To preserve the 1968-D Roosevelt dime value, place it in a PVC-free plastic flip or a cardboard “2×2” holder. These holders prevent the coin from being scratched by other change and keep oils from your fingers from causing tarnishing. If the coin appears to be in perfect condition with Full Torch lines, it may even be worth sending to a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC to have it authenticated and encased in a hard plastic “slab.”

Storing your collection in a cool, dry place is also essential. High humidity can cause the copper core of the clad dime to react, leading to unsightly spotting. By taking these simple steps, you ensure that if you ever decide to sell your 1968-D dime, it will fetch the highest possible price on the market.

FAQ about the 1968-D Roosevelt Dime

Q: Is there a 1968-D silver dime?

A: No, the Denver Mint did not strike any Roosevelt dimes in silver for circulation in 1968. All 1968-D dimes are made of a clad composition (copper and nickel). If you find a dime that appears silver, it is likely just a very well-preserved clad coin or a silver proof dime from the San Francisco Mint (which would have an “S” mint mark).

Q: What is the most expensive 1968-D dime ever sold?

A: The record price for a 1968-D Roosevelt Dime is over $1,200 for a specimen graded MS68. These coins are exceptionally rare because very few clad dimes were preserved in such perfect condition during the late 1960s.

Q: Where is the mint mark on a 1968-D dime?

A: The mint mark is located on the obverse (front) of the coin, just above the date. You will see a small “D” near Roosevelt’s neck, which indicates it was struck in Denver. If there is no mint mark, it was struck in Philadelphia.

Q: How can I tell if my 1968-D dime has Full Torch lines?

A: Look at the back of the coin at the torch in the center. There are two sets of horizontal bands—one at the top and one at the bottom. To qualify as Full Torch, both sets of bands must show a clear, deep horizontal line separating them with no interruptions or blending of the metal.