Clad Roosevelt Dime: Enduring Symbol of American Resilience and Popularity

The Roosevelt dime, introduced in 1946, honors President Franklin D. Roosevelt. After Roosevelt's death, the March of Dimes campaign lobbied for a circulating coin to commemorate his legacy. With the rising cost of silver, the dime's composition changed in 1965 to a clad composition, and is currently minted in both clad and silver proof versions.

The Clad Roosevelt Dime: A Symbol of American Resilience and Enduring Popularity

Introduction

The Roosevelt dime, introduced in 1946, remains an iconic symbol of American coinage. Its design, featuring the stoic profile of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, pays homage to a revered leader who guided the nation through the Great Depression and World War II. The clad Roosevelt dime, introduced in 1965, has retained its popularity and affordability, making it a cherished collectible and a testament to Roosevelt's enduring legacy.

Historical Roots

The idea of honoring Roosevelt on a circulating coin gained traction shortly after his death in 1945. His association with the March of Dimes, a charity dedicated to polio research and treatment, made the dime a fitting tribute. The silver dime, minted from 1946 to 1964, conveyed the nation's gratitude and admiration for its beloved president.

The Shift to Clad

In the early 1960s, the rising price of silver necessitated a change in coin composition. In 1965, the Roosevelt dime transitioned to a clad composition, consisting of an outer layer of 75% copper and 25% nickel bonded to a pure copper core. This change ensured the coin's continued production while maintaining its intrinsic value.

Design and Production

The design of the clad Roosevelt dime remained largely unchanged from its silver predecessor. John R. Sinnock's timeless obverse depicts Roosevelt's left-facing profile, while the reverse features a flaming torch flanked by olive and oak branches. The motto "In God We Trust" graces the obverse below Roosevelt's chin, and the date rests beneath the neck truncation.

Business strike Roosevelt dimes are minted in Philadelphia and Denver, with mint marks appearing above the final digit of the date from 1968 onward. The Philadelphia Mint produced coins without mint marks until 1980, when the "P" mark was introduced. The San Francisco Mint has been producing clad Proofs since 1968.

Collectible Varieties

While the clad Roosevelt dime is generally affordable, certain varieties command higher premiums. Full Bands (FB) coins, featuring distinct bands on the torch, and cameo or deep cameo Special Mint Set coins from 1965 to 1967 are particularly sought-after. The No Mint Mark (NMM) issues of 1982 and 1968 to 1983 Proofs also carry significant value.

A range of doubled die and other punching varieties exist, primarily on coins minted prior to the early 1980s. Satin finish circulation strikes from the 21st century and rare 1965-dated coins minted on older silver planchets are additional collectible rarities.

Controversies and Intriguing Stories

The Roosevelt dime has sparked its share of controversy and intrigue. One theory suggests that the coin's design was stolen or inspired by a communist plot, a claim dismissed by coin experts. Another notable story involves a 2001-D Lincoln Cent mule with a Roosevelt dime reverse, an error that has garnered significant attention and value.

Significance and Legacy

The clad Roosevelt dime serves as a tangible reminder of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt's remarkable life and presidency. Its enduring popularity reflects the nation's unwavering respect and fondness for the man who guided America through its darkest hours. As a widely circulated coin, the Roosevelt dime connects people across generations, fostering a sense of shared history and national pride.