1968 United States Roosevelt Dime
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint (Philadelphia)
Pattern: Roosevelt Dime, designed by John R. Sinnock
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint (Philadelphia)
Material
75% copper, 25% nickel clad over a pure copper core (Not silver)
Dimensions
17.91 mm diameter, 1.35 mm thickness, 2.268 grams
Description
A standard circulating United States ten-cent piece. While it appears silver in color, this 1968 issue marks the post-1964 era where silver was removed from Roosevelt dimes in favor of a copper-nickel clad composition.
Key Features
Absence of mint mark, copper-colored edge (classic clad indicator), and 1968 date
Material & Composition
75% copper, 25% nickel clad over a pure copper core (Not silver)
Finish & Decoration
Business strike, circulated finish; features the profile of Franklin D. Roosevelt on the obverse and an olive branch, torch, and oak branch on the reverse
Hallmarks & Stamps
No mint mark (indicating Philadelphia), 'JS' designer initials, 'LIBERTY', 'IN GOD WE TRUST', and date '1968'
Construction Details
Die-struck at a government minting facility using high-pressure coin presses
Functional Features
Reeded edge (118 reeds) to prevent clipping or counterfeiting
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Numismatic object)
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-manufactured with high precision; typical of late 1960s mass-production coinage.
Authentication Indicators
Standard strike characteristics, weight-to-diameter ratio consistent with US Mint specifications, and visible copper core on the edge.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America, Philadelphia Mint
Era & Period
Modern Era (Post-Silver Coinage Transition)
Age Estimate
Dated 1968
Cultural Significance
The Roosevelt Dime was introduced in 1946 to honor President Franklin D. Roosevelt's support of the March of Dimes.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good (circulated); shows surface scratches, slight tarnish/grime, and visible wear on the high points of Roosevelt's hair and cheek.
Value Estimate
Face value ($0.10) in circulated condition; up to $1-$5 in high-grade uncirculated condition.
Care & Maintenance
Dimes of this era do not require special care; cleaning is generally discouraged for numismatic items as it can lower value.
Similar Pieces
1964 Roosevelt Dime (90% Silver), 1968-D or 1968-S Dimes
Interesting Facts
1968 was the first year since 1942 that mint marks were returned to US coins (placed on the obverse), though Philadelphia coins remained markless.