1993-S Silver Roosevelt Dime Value: Most Recent Seller Guide
The 1993-S Silver Roosevelt Dime is worth anywhere from $8 in typical proof condition to over $150 for perfect specimens. These coins were never meant for pocket change, so if you have found one with a deep, mirror-like finish, you likely have a special collector’s piece on your hands.
| Condition / Grade | Estimated Market Value |
|---|---|
| PR 65 (Standard Proof) | $7 – $10 |
| PR 69 Deep Cameo | $15 – $25 |
| PR 70 Deep Cameo (Perfect) | $140 – $185 |
Understanding the 1993-S Silver Roosevelt Dime
If you just looked at the date on your dime and saw “1993” along with an “S” mint mark, you might be holding a piece of modern numismatic history. Unlike the copper-nickel dimes we use to buy groceries today, the San Francisco Mint struck a limited number of these dimes in 90% silver. This was done specifically for inclusion in the 1993 Silver Proof Sets, catering to hobbyists and investors rather than the general public.
Finding one of these in a coin jar is rare, but it does happen. Often, sets are broken apart, or collections are spent by people who don’t realize what they have. If you aren’t sure if your coin is silver or clad, you can use a free coin identifier app to get a quick visual confirmation and learn more about its specific minting characteristics.
Because these were struck using specially polished blanks and dies, they feature a “Proof” finish. This means the background (fields) looks like a mirror, while the raised parts of the design (the portrait of Roosevelt) have a frosted, white appearance. This contrast is known as “Deep Cameo,” and it is the standard for high-value silver dimes from this era. If your coin looks exceptionally shiny compared to a regular dime, you’ve likely found a Proof.
How to Tell if Your 1993 Dime is Silver or Clad
The most important step in determining the 1993-S Silver Roosevelt Dime value is verifying its metal content. In 1993, the San Francisco Mint actually produced two different types of dimes: a standard copper-nickel “clad” proof and the “90% silver” proof. Both bear the “S” mint mark, which can be very confusing for beginners.
To tell them apart, look at the edge of the coin. A standard clad dime will show a copper-colored stripe running along the side, similar to a sandwich. A silver dime will have a solid, bright silver edge with no brown or orange visible. Another way to check is by weight; a silver dime weighs approximately 2.50 grams, while a clad dime weighs 2.27 grams.
If you are at a flea market or a garage sale and see a bundle of coins, using a tool like CoinKnow can help you quickly scan and identify these subtle differences. It is vital to know exactly what you have before you try to sell it, as the current 1993 dime market rates vary significantly between base metal and precious metal versions.
Value Breakdown by Grade and Condition
For most people, a 1993-S Silver Dime will be worth its “melt value” plus a premium for being a collectable. As of today, the silver content alone makes it worth more than its face value of ten cents. However, collectors care deeply about “grading,” which is a scale from 1 to 70 that measures how perfect the coin is.
Since these coins were sold in protective plastic cases, many have survived in nearly perfect condition. A grade of PR 69 (Proof 69) is very common and usually sells for a modest price. However, a “Perfect 70” is much rarer. Thousands of these coins have tiny, microscopic hairline scratches that prevent them from reaching that top tier.
| Mint Mark & Type | Mintage Total | High Auction Record |
|---|---|---|
| 1993-S Silver Proof | 617,807 | $550 (PCGS PR70DCAM) |
| 1993-S Clad Proof | 2,633,489 | $40 |
Identifying a top-grade coin requires a trained eye. You might want to check the 1993 silver dime pricing guide to see how recent sales have trended for different grades.
The Mintage Numbers and Rarity
When discussing the 1993-S Silver Roosevelt Dime value, mintage is the key factor. The Philadelphia and Denver mints produced over 1.5 billion dimes for circulation in 1993. In contrast, only about 617,000 silver proof dimes were struck in San Francisco. This makes the silver version over 2,000 times rarer than the ones you find in your pocket.
Because these coins were sold only in sets, the survival rate of high-quality examples is quite high. They haven’t been bounced around in pockets or vending machines. However, because the mintage is relatively low compared to other modern coins, they maintain a “floor” price that never dips below the value of the silver they contain.
When you are out hunting for silver, CoinKnow can be a great companion to keep track of mintage figures on the fly. Knowing which years the Mint decided to produce silver versions of quarters, halves, and dimes is essential for any modern treasure hunter.
Market Trends: Is the Value Increasing?
The market for modern silver proofs is generally stable. Unlike “key date” coins from the 1800s that can fluctuate by thousands of dollars, the 1993-S silver dime tends to move gently alongside the spot price of silver. However, there is a growing community of “Registry Set” collectors who compete to own the highest-graded coins possible.
When a Registry Set collector needs a PR70 Deep Cameo to complete their 1990s collection, they are often willing to pay a massive premium. This is why you might see one silver dime sell for $10 while another seemingly identical one sells for $150. The difference is often a tiny mark that only a professional grader can see.
For the average person, these dimes represent a great entry point into coin collecting. They are beautiful, contain precious metal, and are affordable. If you find one in an old drawer, it is a fun piece of history that is definitely worth saving rather than spending at the laundromat.
| Year / Metal | Silver Content | Average Buy Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1993-S Silver | 0.07234 oz | $8.50 |
| 1964 Silver | 0.07234 oz | $2.25 |
Where to Sell Your 1993-S Silver Dime
If you have confirmed your coin is silver and you want to cash in, you have a few options. Local coin shops are the fastest route. Most dealers will pay you a percentage of the silver value or the wholesale collector value. Don’t expect to get the “retail” price you see on eBay, as the dealer needs to make a profit.
Selling online through platforms like eBay or GreatCollections can net you more money, but you will have to deal with shipping and seller fees. If you have a coin that you believe is a perfect PR70, it might be worth sending it to a grading service like PCGS or NGC first. However, grading costs around $25-$40, so only do this if you are certain the coin is flawless.
Before making any moves, use CoinKnow to browse recent realized auction prices. This gives you leverage when talking to a dealer because you will know exactly what the 1993-S Silver Roosevelt Dime value is in the current market.
FAQ
Q: Why is my 1993 dime shiny but has no “S” mint mark?
A: If your 1993 dime was minted in Philadelphia (P) or Denver (D), it is a regular business-strike coin made of copper and nickel. These are generally only worth ten cents unless they have a major mint error.
Q: Can I find a 1993-S Silver Dime in my change?
A: It is highly unlikely, but possible. Sometimes people break open proof sets to spend the money or burglars dump stolen collections into Coinstar machines. Always check the edges of your dimes for that solid silver look!
Q: Is the 1993-S Silver Dime made of pure silver?
A: No, it is 90% silver and 10% copper. This is the same composition used for dimes, quarters, and half dollars minted before 1965.
Q: How much silver is actually in the coin?
A: Each silver Roosevelt dime contains approximately 0.07234 troy ounces of pure silver. You can calculate the “melt value” by multiplying this number by the current market price of silver.
Q: Does the “S” always mean it is silver?
A: No. In 1993, the San Francisco Mint made both silver and clad (copper-nickel) proof dimes. You must check the edge of the coin or the weight to be sure which one you have.
