1988-P Roosevelt Dime
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint (Philadelphia Branch)
Pattern: Roosevelt Dime, designed by John R. Sinnock, introduced 1946
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint (Philadelphia Branch)
Material
Cupro-nickel clad copper (Outer layers: 75% copper, 25% nickel; Inner core: 100% copper). Note: This is not a silver coin.
Dimensions
Diameter: 17.91 mm; Mass: 2.268 grams; Thickness: 1.35 mm.
Description
The Roosevelt Dime has been the standard ten-cent piece of the United States since 1946. This 1988 specimen from the Philadelphia Mint features the classic profile of the 32nd President. Unlike its predecessors minted before 1965, this coin contains no silver content and is composed of a copper-nickel clad sandwich.
Key Features
Mint mark 'P' which was reintroduced to dimes in 1980; John Sinnock's initials 'JS' at the base of the neck.
Material & Composition
Cupro-nickel clad copper (Outer layers: 75% copper, 25% nickel; Inner core: 100% copper). Note: This is not a silver coin.
Finish & Decoration
Business strike finish with relief portrait of Franklin D. Roosevelt on the obverse; features the word "LIBERTY" and the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST".
Hallmarks & Stamps
Mint mark 'P' (Philadelphia) located above the date; year '1988' on the obverse.
Construction Details
Die-struck/milled using a high-pressure coinage press on a clad metal planchet.
Functional Features
Reeded edge (118 reeds) to prevent clipping and counterfeiting; legal tender for ten cents.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - This is a flat coin designed for circulation.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced machine-struck coin; standard quality control for US Mint circulation strikes during the late 1980s.
Authentication Indicators
Correct diameter and weight proportions; visible 'P' mint mark and date '1988' consistent with US Mint typography.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America, Philadelphia Mint.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century (Modern Era); Cold War/Reagan Era context.
Age Estimate
Produced in the year 1988 (approximately 36 years old).
Cultural Significance
A staple of American commerce and a symbol of the New Deal era's lasting impact on U.S. institutional identity.
Condition Notes
Circulated/Good. Visible surface wear, scratches (bag marks), and moderate tarnish/grime consistent with general circulation. Structural integrity is sound.
Value Estimate
Face value ($0.10). In exceptional uncirculated (MS-67+) condition, it may carry a small premium to collectors, but this circulated example is worth ten cents.
Care & Maintenance
No special cleaning required given the clad composition; avoid harsh chemicals which can discolor the nickel surface. Keep in a dry environment.
Similar Pieces
1988-D (Denver Mint), 1988-S (San Francisco Proof), and pre-1965 90% silver Roosevelt Dimes which have intrinsic bullion value.
Interesting Facts
The Roosevelt Dime was released shortly after FDR's death to honor his leadership and his role in the March of Dimes; 1988-P had a high mintage of over 1 billion units.