Who's on the Dime?

The dime, a small, silver-colored coin worth ten cents, is a common part of American currency. But who is the face depicted on this iconic coin?

The Face on the Dime

The dime features the likeness of Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd President of the United States. Roosevelt served from 1933 until his death in 1945 and is widely regarded as one of the most influential presidents in American history.

Why Roosevelt?

Roosevelt was chosen to be on the dime in 1946 as a tribute to his leadership during the Great Depression and World War II. His image was designed by John R. Sinnock, who created the dime's design based on a bust of Roosevelt by sculptor Jo Davidson.

History of the Dime

The dime has been a part of American currency since its inception. The first dimes were struck in 1796 and featured a portrait of Lady Liberty. In 1892, the dime's design was altered to include a bust of Liberty with a Phrygian cap.

The current design of the dime featuring Roosevelt was introduced in 1946. The obverse (front) of the coin features Roosevelt's portrait, while the reverse (back) displays an image of the Liberty Bell.

Interesting Facts

• The dime is the smallest and lightest coin in the United States' circulation.
• It has a diameter of 17.91 mm and weighs just 2.268 grams.
• The dime is made of an alloy consisting of 91.67% copper and 8.33% nickel.
• The Liberty Bell on the reverse of the dime was added in 1946 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the United States' independence.

Role of the Dime Today

The dime is a widely used coin in the United States. According to the U.S. Mint, over 1.6 billion dimes were produced in 2021 alone. Dimes are used for everyday transactions, such as purchasing vending machine items, paying for postage, or giving as a tip.

Transition: In addition to its practical use, the dime also holds sentimental value for many Americans.

Cultural Significance

The dime has become a cultural icon in the United States. It is featured in popular culture, including songs, movies, and television shows. The phrase "who's on the dime?" is often used to refer to who is paying for something or who is responsible for a particular situation.

Transition: The dime also plays a significant role in the study of American history and numismatics (the study of coins).

Numismatic Value

The value of a dime in numismatic circles can vary significantly depending on its condition, rarity, and historical significance. Some dimes, such as those minted in rare years or with errors, can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Collectors' Corner

Coin collectors often seek out dimes with specific characteristics or from specific years. Some popular dime varieties include:

• 1916-D Mercury dime: A rare dime minted in Denver with a low mintage of just over 280,000 coins.
• 1942/41-S Mercury dime: A dime with the date "1941" overstruck by the date "1942."
• 1964-D Roosevelt dime: A dime minted in Denver with an unusually high relief (depth of the design).

Investment Potential

Investing in dimes can be a potential way to diversify a portfolio and hedge against inflation. However, it is important to note that the value of dimes can be volatile, and there is no guarantee of a positive return on investment.

Transition: Before investing in dimes or any other form of collectible, it is essential to conduct thorough research and seek the guidance of a qualified numismatist.

Strategies for Collecting

If you are interested in starting a dime collection, here are a few strategies to consider:

• Focus on a specific area: Choose a particular type of dime (e.g., Mercury dimes, Roosevelt dimes) or a specific period of history to collect.
• Set a budget: Determine how much you are willing to spend on your collection and stick to it.
• Buy certified coins: Purchasing coins that have been certified by reputable grading services (e.g., PCGS, NGC) can help ensure their authenticity and value.
• Store your coins properly: Coins should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Buying coins without doing research: Before purchasing any dime, be sure to learn about its rarity, historical significance, and potential value.
• Overpaying for coins: Don't fall victim to inflated prices or unscrupulous sellers. Shop around and compare prices before making a purchase.
• Cleaning coins: Never clean a coin unless you are absolutely certain it will not damage its value. Most cleaning methods can significantly reduce the value of a coin.

A Step-by-Step Approach to Collecting Dimes

1. Set your goals: Determine what type of dime collection you want to build and the number of coins you want to collect.
2. Do your research: Learn about different types of dimes, their rarity, and their potential value.
3. Establish a budget: Decide how much you are willing to spend on your collection.
4. Find a reputable dealer: Look for a coin dealer who is knowledgeable, trustworthy, and has a good reputation.
5. Start collecting: Begin acquiring dimes that meet your goals and fit within your budget.
6. Store your coins properly: Store your coins in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture.
7. Enjoy your collection: The most important aspect of collecting dimes is enjoying the journey.

Why Collecting Dimes Matters

Collecting dimes can be a fun and rewarding hobby that offers numerous benefits:

• Historical preservation: Dimes play an important role in preserving American history and numismatics.
• Educational value: Collecting dimes can teach collectors about American history, art, and economics.
• Investment potential: Investing in rare or collectible dimes can be a potential way to diversify a portfolio and hedge against inflation.
• Personal enjoyment: Collecting dimes can provide a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.

Conclusion

The dime is more than just a small coin. It is a symbol of American history, culture, and numismatics. By understanding who is on the dime, its design, and its significance, we can appreciate the rich story behind this iconic piece of currency.