Finding The bust that was used as the model for the Roosevelt Dime in the Wild: A Cherry Picker’s Guide

Historical Significance

When searching through circulation or bulk lots, one of the most fascinating finds you might encounter is a connection to the iconic Roosevelt dime. This beloved coin, first minted in 1946, carries with it a rich history that extends far beyond its humble 10-cent face value.

The Roosevelt dime was created to honor President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who had passed away in 1945. The design was based on a bust that has been the subject of some debate among numismatists and historians. While John R. Sinnock, the Mint’s Chief Engraver, is officially credited with the design, there’s evidence to suggest that the original inspiration came from sculptor Selma Burke’s work.

Burke, an African American artist, had created a plaque featuring Roosevelt’s likeness after a live sitting with the President in 1944. This plaque, which won a competition for the Recorder of Deeds office in Washington, D.C., is believed by many to be the uncredited basis for Sinnock’s final design on the dime.

The controversy surrounding the true origin of the dime’s design adds an extra layer of intrigue to this already significant coin. It’s a reminder that numismatics isn’t always about the rarest or most valuable coins, but often about the rich history and context in which they were produced.

Identifying Key Markers

When roll hunting or perusing bulk lots, there are several key markers to look for that might indicate you’ve found something special related to the Roosevelt dime’s history:

• Early Dates: Keep an eye out for dimes from 1946, the first year of issue. These early examples can sometimes be found in circulation or estate sales.
• Full Bands: On Roosevelt dimes, the fasces on the reverse has horizontal bands. Coins with fully separated bands (known as “Full Band” or “FB” in collecting circles) are more desirable.
• Key Dates and Mint Marks: Certain years and mint marks are rarer than others. For example, the 1949-S and 1955 issues are known for their low mintages.
• Silver Content: Dimes minted before 1965 contain 90% silver. These can often be found in bulk lots or estate sales.

While you’re unlikely to find the original bust used as a model, being aware of these markers can help you spot valuable or historically significant Roosevelt dimes in your searches.

Where to Look

The beauty of roll hunting and cherry picking is that you don’t always need to visit a dealer to find interesting pieces. Here are some places to search:

• Circulation: Always check your change. You never know when you might stumble upon an old silver dime or a rare date.
• Bulk Lots: Many auction sites and coin dealers sell bulk lots of circulated coins. These can be a treasure trove for patient collectors.
• Estate Sales: When people pass away, their coin collections often end up at estate sales. These can be excellent places to find overlooked gems.
• Flea Markets and Antique Shops: These venues often have jars or boxes of old coins that haven’t been thoroughly searched.

Remember, the goal isn’t always to find the most valuable coin, but to uncover pieces of history that tell a story.

Value Guide

The value of Roosevelt dimes can vary widely depending on several factors:

• Condition: As with all coins, condition is paramount. A dime in mint state will be worth significantly more than one that’s been heavily circulated.
• Silver Content: Pre-1965 dimes have intrinsic value due to their silver content, regardless of rarity.
• Rarity: Certain dates and mint marks are rarer than others, driving up their value.
• Full Bands: Roosevelt dimes with full separation in the horizontal bands on the reverse are more valuable.

While most Roosevelt dimes are only worth their face value, some key dates can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars in top condition. For example, a 1949-S Roosevelt dime in mint state can fetch several hundred dollars, while a circulated example might only be worth a few dollars.

Authentication and Preservation

When you do find an interesting Roosevelt dime, it’s important to handle it properly:

• Handle with Care: Always hold coins by their edges to avoid transferring oils from your skin onto the surface.
• Storage: Use proper coin holders or albums to protect your finds from environmental damage.
• Authentication: For potentially valuable finds, consider having them authenticated by a reputable third-party grading service.

Remember, even if a coin isn’t particularly valuable monetarily, it might have significant historical value. The story behind a coin can sometimes be just as interesting as its market value.

Conclusion

The Roosevelt dime, with its rich history and the controversy surrounding its design, offers a fascinating area for collectors to explore. Whether you’re searching through rolls of dimes, perusing bulk lots at estate sales, or simply checking your pocket change, the thrill of the hunt is always present.

While you may never find the original bust used as a model for the dime, each Roosevelt dime you encounter carries with it a piece of American history. From the silver content of pre-1965 issues to the potential for finding rare dates or mint marks, there’s always something to look for.

Remember, numismatics isn’t just about finding the most valuable coins. It’s about uncovering the stories behind these small pieces of metal and understanding their place in history. So the next time you’re roll hunting or browsing through a box of old coins, keep an eye out for those Roosevelt dimes. You never know what piece of history you might uncover.

Related Resources

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