The 1988-S Roosevelt Dime is worth anywhere from $3 to $15 for a standard proof example, but gem-quality specimens graded PR70 can fetch $50 or more. If you’ve stumbled across one in an old collection or proof set, you might be sitting on something more valuable than ten cents.
What Makes the 1988-S Dime Different From the Rest
Not every 1988 dime has an “S” mintmark. That little letter under the torch on the reverse side means the coin was struck at the San Francisco Mint — and unlike the Philadelphia and Denver versions made for everyday pocket change, the 1988-S was produced exclusively as a proof coin. That means it was never meant to circulate. It was struck using specially polished dies and planchets, giving it that mirror-like finish you’ll notice right away.
If you’re not sure what mintmark you’re looking at or whether your coin is actually a proof, try using a free coin identification app to get a quick read on what you’ve got. Tools like these can save you a lot of guesswork before you decide whether to sell, hold, or grade your coin.
The San Francisco Mint produced 3,262,948 proof dimes in 1988 — a relatively large mintage for a proof issue, which is one reason average examples don’t command huge premiums. But condition is everything in this hobby, and even a common coin in perfect shape can surprise you.
Understanding the 1988-S Roosevelt Dime Value by Grade
Proof coins are graded differently from business-strike coins. You’ll see grades like PR60, PR65, or PR70 instead of MS (mint state) grades. The higher the number, the closer to perfect the coin is. A deep cameo designation — where the portrait and designs have a frosted, white appearance against a mirror-like background — adds significant collector appeal and value.
Here’s a general breakdown of what the 1988-S Roosevelt Dime is worth based on grade:
| Grade | Designation | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| PR60 | Proof | $3 – $5 |
| PR65 | Gem Proof | $5 – $10 |
| PR65 DCAM | Deep Cameo | $8 – $15 |
| PR69 DCAM | Deep Cameo | $15 – $30 |
| PR70 DCAM | Perfect Deep Cameo | $40 – $75+ |
For a deeper look at current market prices and recent auction results for Roosevelt Dimes, CoinHix is one of the best free resources available online. It tracks real sales data so you’re not just guessing.
Where These Coins Usually Come From
Most 1988-S proof dimes were originally sold by the U.S. Mint as part of an annual proof set. These sets came packaged in a hard plastic holder and included one coin from each denomination — cent, nickel, dime, quarter, half dollar, and dollar. A complete 1988-S proof set in original packaging is worth around $8 to $15 on the secondary market today.
If you inherited a box of old proof sets, it’s worth going through them carefully. Coins that have been removed from their original packaging can lose some value, especially if they’ve picked up scratches or fingerprints. Proof coins are notoriously sensitive to contact — even a light touch can leave a mark that drops the grade significantly.
CoinHix makes it easy to look up values for the entire proof set series, not just individual coins, which is handy if you’re trying to figure out the total worth of what you’ve inherited or found.
Tips for Selling or Getting Your 1988-S Dime Appraised
If you think you’ve got a high-grade example — especially one that appears to have strong cameo contrast — it might be worth submitting it to a third-party grading service like PCGS or NGC. Professional grading adds credibility and can significantly increase what a buyer is willing to pay. A raw (ungraded) PR70 DCAM might sell for $30, but a slabbed and certified example could bring $60 or more.
For those who just want a quick estimate without the cost of professional grading, checking a trusted online resource for 1988 dime values across all mintmarks and conditions is a smart first step. It’s free, fast, and gives you a realistic baseline before you decide your next move.
Online marketplaces like eBay are also useful for checking what buyers are actually paying — just filter by “sold listings” to see real transaction prices rather than what sellers are hoping to get. Local coin shows and coin dealers can also give you an in-person appraisal, and many will do it for free.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 1988-S Roosevelt Dime rare?
A: Not particularly. With over 3.2 million minted, it’s a common proof issue. That said, examples in PR70 or PR69 DCAM grades are scarce and worth considerably more than average specimens.
Q: Can I spend a 1988-S proof dime?
A: Technically yes — it’s still legal tender worth 10 cents. But it would be a waste! Even a lower-grade proof dime is worth several times face value to a collector.
Q: How do I know if my 1988-S dime is a deep cameo?
A: Look at the portrait of Franklin Roosevelt and the torch design under good lighting. If the raised design elements appear bright white or frosted against a mirror-like field (background), it’s likely a cameo or deep cameo. Apps like CoinHix and other coin identification tools can help you confirm what you’re seeing.
