The 1979-S Type 2 Roosevelt Dime is worth anywhere from $3 in lightly circulated condition to over $90 or more in perfect proof grades — and if you’ve got one sitting in an old coin album or proof set, it might be more valuable than you think.
What Makes the 1979-S Type 2 Different From Other Proof Dimes
If you’re not a coin collector by trade, you might wonder why there are two different types of 1979-S dimes in the first place. The answer comes down to the mint mark. The San Francisco Mint produced proof coins in 1979, and early in the year, the mint mark on these coins appeared somewhat filled or blobby — that’s the Type 1. Later in the year, the Mint switched to a sharper, more clearly defined “S” mint mark, which is what collectors now call the Type 2.
This small difference in the shape of the letter “S” is what separates an ordinary 1979-S proof dime from its more desirable cousin. The Type 2 was produced in smaller quantities, and because many collectors weren’t paying close attention at the time, fewer of them were saved in high grades.
That scarcity, even within the world of proof coins, is exactly why the 1979-S Type 2 Roosevelt Dime value tends to run higher than the more common Type 1 version. If you’re not sure which type you have, a coin identifier and value app can help you compare the mint mark shape quickly and accurately.
How Much Is the 1979-S Type 2 Roosevelt Dime Worth Right Now
Most 1979-S Type 2 Roosevelt Dimes found today come from original U.S. Mint proof sets, so they’re typically in excellent condition. But within the world of proof coins, there’s still a wide range of grades and values.
Here’s a general look at what you can expect based on grade:
| Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| PR-60 (Basic Proof) | $3 – $6 |
| PR-65 (Gem Proof) | $10 – $20 |
| PR-67 (Superb Gem) | $25 – $50 |
| PR-68 (Near Perfect) | $50 – $90 |
| PR-69 or Higher | $90 – $200+ |
Keep in mind these are general ranges. Actual auction results can vary. For the most up-to-date 1979-S Type 2 Roosevelt Dime price data across different grades, it’s worth checking recent sales before making any buying or selling decisions.
How to Tell If Your 1979-S Is a Type 1 or Type 2
This is the big question most people have, and it’s honestly not that hard once you know what to look for. Grab a magnifying glass and examine the “S” mint mark on the obverse (front) of the coin, just below Roosevelt’s portrait.
On a Type 1, the “S” looks a bit blobby or filled in — the curves of the letter don’t have clean, sharp edges. On a Type 2, the “S” is crisp and well-defined, with clear open loops at the top and bottom of the letter.
If you’re still not sure, CoinHix is a great tool for side-by-side comparisons. The app displays high-resolution images of different coin varieties so you can match what you see under your magnifier to known examples. It takes the guesswork out of variety identification, especially for coins like this where the difference is subtle but financially meaningful.
Where These Coins Usually Come From and What to Do With Yours
The 1979-S Type 2 Roosevelt Dime was not released into general circulation. It was only available as part of the U.S. Mint’s 1979 proof set, which was sold directly to collectors. That means if you have one, it likely came out of an old proof set stored in a box, dresser drawer, or inherited collection.
If the coin is still in its original plastic holder from the proof set, that’s actually a good thing. Coins that have never been removed from their original packaging tend to retain their proof surfaces better and can grade higher.
Before you sell or trade, take a moment to research current values. A resource like this detailed breakdown of 1979 dime values by type and grade can give you the full picture across both Type 1 and Type 2 varieties, helping you understand exactly where your coin fits.
And if you want a quick, on-the-go appraisal, CoinHix lets you scan your coin and get an instant estimated value — a handy starting point before you visit a dealer or list it online.
Is the 1979-S Type 2 Roosevelt Dime Worth Collecting
Absolutely. For budget-conscious collectors, this coin is a fascinating variety that doesn’t cost a fortune to add to a collection. It’s a genuine piece of U.S. Mint history — a small production change that most people overlooked at the time but that now carries real numismatic significance.
For people who just found one and want to know if it’s worth anything: yes, it can be, especially in higher grades. Even a well-preserved example pulled from an original proof set can fetch a solid premium over face value.
The world of Roosevelt dimes has more depth than most people realize, and the 1979-S Type 2 is a perfect example of why condition, variety, and a little bit of knowledge can turn an ordinary-looking dime into something genuinely interesting. Whether you’re a curious newcomer or a seasoned collector, CoinHix is a great companion for exploring coins like this one.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know if my 1979-S dime is Type 1 or Type 2?
A: Look at the “S” mint mark under magnification. A Type 2 has a sharper, more clearly defined “S” with open loops, while the Type 1 looks blobby or filled in. Coin identification apps like CoinHix can also help you compare your coin to reference images.
Q: Are 1979-S Type 2 Roosevelt Dimes rare?
A: They’re not extremely rare, but they are scarcer than the Type 1 version produced earlier in 1979. The Type 2 was minted in smaller numbers, and finding one in high proof grades (PR-68 or above) with no spots or blemishes does take some searching.
Q: Should I clean my 1979-S proof dime before selling it?
A: No — never clean a proof coin. Cleaning removes the original mirror surfaces and dramatically reduces its value. Even a light wipe can cause hairline scratches visible under magnification and knock the coin down several grade points.