1990-P Roosevelt Dime (Cupro-Nickel Cladding)
Coin/Bullion (Circulating Numismatic) · United States Mint, Philadelphia (established 1792), known for high-volume government-sanctioned production and industrial striking standards.
Pattern: Roosevelt Dime series, originally designed by John R. Sinnock in 1946; continues in production today as the standard ten-cent unit of American currency.
Type
Coin/Bullion (Circulating Numismatic)
Maker
United States Mint, Philadelphia (established 1792), known for high-volume government-sanctioned production and industrial striking standards.
Material
Cupro-Nickel Clad Copper. Specifically 75% copper and 25% nickel cladding over a pure copper core. Note: This item contains 0% silver.
Dimensions
Standard dimensions: 17.91 mm (0.705 in) diameter, 1.35 mm thickness; Standard weight: 2.268 grams.
Description
This is a standard circulation 1990 Roosevelt Dime. It features the sharp, mid-relief profile of the 32nd President of the United States. While enthusiasts often misidentify clad coinage as silver due to its metallic luster, the copper-colored edge (visible from the side) confirms its base-metal composition. This specific piece shows significant circulation wear and surface environmental toning giving it a reddish hue.
Key Features
P Mint Mark which was standard for Philadelphia dimes since 1980; 118 reeds on the edge; clad composition signature (copper core visible on edge).
Material & Composition
Cupro-Nickel Clad Copper. Specifically 75% copper and 25% nickel cladding over a pure copper core. Note: This item contains 0% silver.
Finish & Decoration
Die-struck circulation satin finish. Features the profile of Franklin D. Roosevelt on the obverse and an olive branch, torch, and oak branch on the reverse. Includes inscriptions LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST, and the date 1990.
Hallmarks & Stamps
P Mint Mark (signifying Philadelphia Mint), date stamp 1990, JS initials (designer John Sinnock) under the truncation of the neck.
Construction Details
Machine-made using high-pressure industrial coinage presses. Die-struck from a prepared planchet of clad metal. It features a reeded (milled) edge.
Functional Features
Reeded edge (originally used on silver coins to prevent shaving), legal tender value of 10 cents USD, stacking capability.
Handle & Grip Details
None/Circular Coin Form.
Craftsmanship Details
High-speed industrial strike. The alignment is standard 180-degree coin turn. Evidence of die-deterioration or wear is common for bills-of-quantity production items from this decade.
Authentication Indicators
Correct diameter and weight for the year; consistent industrial die-strike marks; presence of the P mint mark in the correct font and position for the 1990 series.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America, Philadelphia Mint. Produced using automated industrial striking systems.
Era & Period
Modern Era (late 20th century). Design context: Post-WWII memorial coinage (Roosevelt died in 1945; coin launched 1946).
Age Estimate
Dated 1990; approximately 34 years old.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of the 'March of Dimes' charity founded by Roosevelt to combat polio; a staple of American commerce and the lowest-denomination coin with a reeded edge.
Condition Notes
Circulated/Good condition. Excessive surface scratches, flattening of high points on the hair, and heavy environmental toning/oxidation. No significant errors or 'proof' characteristics.
Value Estimate
$0.10 (Face Value). In current condition, it holds no premium for silver stackers or numismatic collectors.
Care & Maintenance
No specialized care required as it has no precious metal value. To maintain numismatic integrity, do not clean with acids or abrasives. Store in a cool, dry environment if keeping for a set.
Similar Pieces
1964 Roosevelt Dime (which is 90% silver and highly collectible for metal content); 1990-S Proof Silver Dime (made for collectors, containing 90% silver with a mirror finish).
Interesting Facts
The Roosevelt dime was released on FDR's birthday, January 30, 1946. It replaced the 'Mercury' dime. In 1990, the Philadelphia mint produced over 1.1 billion of these coins.