United States Roosevelt Dime, Post-1964 Cupro-Nickel Clad Composition
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint (Bureau of the Treasury). The U.S. Mint was established in 1792 and is renowned for the high-volume production of the world’s most recognized currency.
Pattern: Roosevelt Dime series, introduced in 1946 to honor President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Designed by Chief Engraver John R. Sinnock.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint (Bureau of the Treasury). The U.S. Mint was established in 1792 and is renowned for the high-volume production of the world’s most recognized currency.
Material
Cupro-nickel clad (75% copper, 25% nickel outerwear bonded to a pure copper core). Unlike pre-1965 dimes which were 90% silver, this specimen contains no actual silver content.
Dimensions
Diameter: 17.91 mm; Thickness: 1.35 mm; Weight: 2.268 grams. This is the standard size for all U.S. dimes since the late 19th century.
Description
The Roosevelt Dime is a staple of American currency, featuring a clean, dignified design celebrating the 32nd U.S. President. The reverse seen here displays a balance of symbols representing the nation's post-WWII values.
Key Features
The torch, olive branch, and oak branch on the reverse; the copper-colored core visible on the edge; the distinct absence of the '90% Silver' ring when dropped on a hard surface.
Material & Composition
Cupro-nickel clad (75% copper, 25% nickel outerwear bonded to a pure copper core). Unlike pre-1965 dimes which were 90% silver, this specimen contains no actual silver content.
Finish & Decoration
Mechanical strike with a reeded edge. The reverse features a torch symbolizing liberty, flanked by an olive branch (peace) and an oak branch (strength/victory). Neoclassical influence.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Reverse features 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', and 'ONE DIME'. A mint mark (P, D, or S) would typically be found on the obverse above the date for this era.
Construction Details
Die-struck by a high-pressure coining press. The 'clad' construction is visible on the edge as a copper-colored stripe between nickel-colored layers.
Functional Features
Reeded edge (118 reeds) originally designed to prevent 'clipping' or shaving of precious metal edges, now primarily for tactile identification.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable (coinage). The reeded edge provides a tactile grip for the fingers.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced industrial quality. The die-striking is precise, though modern clad coins lack the deep relief and 'flash' found on earlier hand-engraved silver coinage.
Authentication Indicators
Clad edge coloration, specific strike character of U.S. Mint dies, and standard weight of 2.27g are consistent with authentic circulation currency.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America. Produced at one of the domestic mints, most likely Philadelphia or Denver, using industrial-scale automated metal stamping.
Era & Period
Modern Era (1965–Present). Design remains consistent with the mid-century Roosevelt motifs but uses non-precious metals as established by the Coinage Act of 1965.
Age Estimate
Post-1964 (Current Era). While the specific date is on the obverse, the lack of silver luster confirms it was minted between 1965 and the present day.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of the New Deal era and American resilience. It represents one of the most successful public health fundraising campaigns in global history.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition. Shows moderate surface wear on the high points of the torch and foliage. Significant bag marks and minor oxidation are visible. Grade: Fine to Very Fine.
Value Estimate
Face value ($0.10 USD). In high-grade uncirculated condition, it may be worth slightly more, but as a clad specimen, it lacks intrinsic bullion value.
Care & Maintenance
For circulation coins, no cleaning is recommended as it can lower numismatic value. Store in a dry environment to avoid 'environmental damage' or copper corrosion (verdigris).
Similar Pieces
1946-1964 Roosevelt Silver Dime (identifiable by silver edge and 'white' luster); Mercury Head Dime (1916-1945); Barber Dime (1892-1916).
Interesting Facts
The Roosevelt dime was released on his birthday, January 30, 1946. It replaced the 'Mercury' (Winged Liberty) dime to commemorate Roosevelt's fight against polio through the March of Dimes.