The 1983-P Roosevelt Dime: A Collector’s Essential Guide

The 1983-P Roosevelt dime is an important element of numismatics history that is often overlooked but has a lot to offer. This article tells the story of this coin and its significance, which symbolized a time when the U.S. Mint was in a transitional phase. It explains how the general public was limited from touching these coins, despite their collectible value and outstanding workmanship. The different features and small variations made it a valuable treasure for collectors.

Historical Context: A Coin Born in a Transitional Era

Collecting the 1983-P Roosevelt dime demands a special consideration because this coin was produced at the U.S. Mint at a special time when commemorative coins were being made for the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. In this context, this was the second consecutive year that the Mint had to halt the production of unchanged coin sets.

Due to the scarcity of these sets, collectors struggled to obtain dimes such as the 1983-P Roosevelt dime in general circulation. Sometimes coins found in general circulation had poor detail and imperfect polishing compared to uncirculated coins. However, due to the high production run of this coin, excellent specimens in normal condition were difficult to obtain; this led to this coin’s popularity among collectors to the present day.

A Look at the Design

The 1983-P Roosevelt dime continues the design tradition established in 1946, honoring the leadership of Franklin D. Roosevelt and his contributions to public health and welfare.

Obverse Design:

The obverse features a left-facing portrait of President Roosevelt.

• “LIBERTY” is inscribed to the left of the portrait.
• “IN GOD WE TRUST” is written below the chin.
• The date 1983 and the mintmark “P” are near Roosevelt’s neck.

Reverse Design:

Reverse, John R. Designed by Sinnock, the obverse symbolizes American ideals.

• The main elements include a burning torch, an olive branch (peace) and an oak branch (strength).
• The slogan “E PLURIBUS UNUM” which means “One Out of Many.”
• “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE DIME” are inscribed.

Why Are Full Torch Dimes So Rare?

One of the most sought-after features of the 1983-P Roosevelt dime is the Full Torch (FT) design. This design features perfectly divided and sharp lines on the vertical and horizontal bars of the torch. However, such examples are extremely rare for this year.

What is the market value of a 1983-P Roosevelt dime?

The value of a 1983-P Roosevelt dime varies widely depending on its condition and design. Here is some important information for collectors:

• Curved coins: These have a general numismatic value of about $1.
• Uncirculated coins: Raw, mint condition examples typically sell for about $6.
• Graded specimens: Coins certified by PCGS or NGC can fetch high prices, especially those with the full torch design.

Tips for collecting the 1983-P Roosevelt dime

1. Find certified coins: Of course coins that have been graded by professional grading companies such as PCGS or NGC are much more reliable.
2. Pay attention to full torch specimens: Full torch dimes are an extension on the pig on the head side and are scarce making the coin more valuable.
3. Check the strike quality: This is to mean that when you find coins with sharp details they can be graded without the help of a professional grader.

Conclusion

In fact, the 1983-P Roosevelt dime is among the key pieces of numismatics items that should be appreciated by coin collectors. This coin is undoubtedly worthy of attention with reference to its design, rarity, and, therefore, its value in the modern world.

FAQs On The 1983-P Roosevelt Dime