The 1985-S Roosevelt Dime is worth anywhere from $3 in typical proof condition to over $500 for a rare Deep Cameo specimen in perfect grade. While most of these coins were minted specifically for collectors, finding one in an old family stash is a common thrill for many everyday Americans.

Condition / Grade	Estimated Value
PR 65 (Standard Proof)	$3.00 – $5.00
PR 69 Deep Cameo (High Grade)	$15.00 – $25.00
PR 70 Deep Cameo (Perfect Grade)	$250.00 – $650.00

Understanding the 1985-S Proof Roosevelt Dime

If you have discovered a dime with an “S” mint mark dated 1985, you are holding a “Proof” coin. Unlike the dimes you find in your pocket change from the Philadelphia (P) or Denver (D) mints, the San Francisco (S) mint versions were never intended for general circulation. They were produced using specially polished dies and planchets to create a mirror-like finish. Because these were sold as part of annual Proof Sets, they are generally found in much better condition than the coins you use at the vending machine.

If you are unsure whether your coin is a standard strike or a special proof, using a top coin identifier app can help you distinguish the fine details. For many hobbyists, the CoinKnow app is the go-to tool for instantly identifying mint marks and surface finishes. The 1985-S is particularly beautiful because it features the “Deep Cameo” effect, where the portrait of FDR appears frosty and white, contrasting sharply against a dark, liquid-like mirror background.

Even though over 3.3 million of these were minted, their value depends heavily on their preservation. Most have spent their lives inside plastic cases, but if someone broke a set and spent the coin, it might look a bit duller today. However, even a slightly handled 1985-S is still a prized find for a beginner collector looking to complete a decade-run of Roosevelt dimes.

What Determines the 1985-S Roosevelt Dime Value?

The primary factor in the 1985-S Roosevelt Dime value is the “grade” or the physical condition of the coin. Since these are proof coins, the scale goes from PR 1 to PR 70. Most examples you will find today fall into the PR 67 to PR 69 range. A PR 70 is a “perfect” coin under 5x magnification, and these are the ones that fetch hundreds of dollars at major auctions.

Professional grading services like PCGS or NGC check for microscopic scratches, known as “hairlines,” which can occur even if the coin was just wiped with a soft cloth. If your dime has a very sharp contrast between the frosted images and the shiny fields, it is classified as “Deep Cameo” (DCAM). This designation is essential for reaching the top-tier prices. You can check the latest 1985 dime price trends to see how the “S” mint mark compares to the “P” and “D” versions found in circulation.

While the “S” mint mark is the key identifier, collectors also look for “toning.” Some silver-colored coins develop a rainbow-like patina over time due to the chemicals in the original packaging. A beautifully toned 1985-S can sometimes sell for more than a standard white one, as it offers a unique aesthetic that some specialists find irresistible.

Sales Record Type	Price Realized	Date of Sale
Heritage Auctions (PR 70 DCAM)	$517.00	2012
eBay (PR 69 DCAM)	$18.00	2023
Collector Direct (PR 68 DCAM)	$8.50	2024

Identifying 1985-S Roosevelt Dime Errors and Varieties

While error coins are more common in business-strike coins (the ones intended for circulation), they do occasionally happen with proof coins. For the 1985-S, collectors often search for “double dies.” A doubled die occurs when the coin hub imprints the image onto the die twice at slightly different angles. This results in a blurred or “ghosted” appearance on the lettering or the date.

Another thing to look for is the mint mark placement. In 1985, the “S” was hand-punched into the dies. This means the position of the “S” can vary slightly from coin to coin. While most variations are standard, an unusually placed or tilted mint mark might attract a small premium from niche collectors. Using the CoinKnow app can help you zoom in on these tiny details to see if your coin has something special going on.

It is important to remember that most “unusual” looking 1985-S dimes are actually just damaged. If a coin has a scratch that looks like a letter, or if it has been plated in gold by a third-party company, it usually loses its numismatic value. You can find more comprehensive 1985 Roosevelt dime value details by looking at specifically cataloged error lists.

How the 1985-S Compares to Other 1980s Dimes

The 1980s was a decade of high mintage for the U.S. Mint. Hundreds of millions of dimes were struck in Philadelphia and Denver every year. In contrast, the San Francisco mint’s output of 3.3 million is relatively small. However, because almost every 1985-S was saved by a collector, they are not “rare” in the sense that they are hard to find. They are “scarce” in perfect condition.

Compared to the 1982 “No P” dime (a famous error where the mint mark was forgotten), the 1985-S is much more affordable. However, it still holds a higher base value than a 1985-P or 1985-D in average condition. While a circulated 1985-P is only worth its face value of 10 cents, the 1985-S is always worth at least a few dollars because of its proof status.

If you enjoy hunting for coins, the CoinKnow app is a great way to keep track of which years have valuable proofs and which years have common circulation strikes. The 1985-S serves as a great “gateway” coin for new collectors because it is affordable, beautiful, and introduces the concept of mint marks and proof finishes without requiring a massive investment.

Mint Mark	Mintage	Likely Surface Find
1985-P	705,200,000	Pocket Change
1985-D	587,115,000	Pocket Change
1985-S	3,362,827	Proof Sets / Collections

Where to Sell Your 1985-S Roosevelt Dime

If you believe you have a high-grade 1985-S Roosevelt Dime, your first step should be to have it appraised or at least reviewed by a local coin dealer. For most people, selling on platforms like eBay is the most effective way to reach buyers. Since the coin is likely worth under $20 unless it is a PR 70, the cost of professional grading (which can be $30-$50) might not be worth it.

When listing your coin, take high-quality photos that show the “S” mint mark clearly. Mention if the coin has “Deep Cameo” features. Collectors look for “clean” fields with no scratches. If your coin is still in its original United States Mint plastic lens (part of a 1985 Proof Set), it is often better to sell the whole set rather than breaking the dime out, as collectors value the original packaging.

Finally, stay updated on market prices. The value of modern proof coins can fluctuate based on collector interest. Using digital tools to monitor auction results and maintaining a clean, scratch-free storage environment for your coins will ensure you get the best possible price when it comes time to sell your 1985-S Roosevelt Dime.

FAQ

Q: Is the 1985-S Roosevelt Dime made of silver?

A: No, the 1985-S Roosevelt Dime is a copper-nickel clad coin. The U.S. Mint did not produce silver proof sets in 1985; they transitioned back to silver for some special sets only in 1992.

Q: How can I tell if my 1985 dime is a proof?

A: Look for the “S” mint mark above the date. Additionally, a proof coin will have a very shiny, mirror-like background and highly detailed, often frosted features compared to a standard dime.

Q: Is a 1985-P or 1985-D dime worth anything?

A: Most 1985-P and 1985-D dimes are only worth their face value of 10 cents if they have been through circulation. Only those in exceptionally high, uncirculated grades (MS 67 or higher) carry a premium for collectors.

Q: Where is the mint mark on a 1985 dime?

A: The mint mark (P, D, or S) is located on the obverse (front) of the coin, just above the date on the right side of the portrait of Franklin D. Roosevelt.