In a surprising twist that has coin collectors buzzing, a Roosevelt dime with a rare clipped planchet error — potentially worth up to $450,000 — is still in circulation, passed hand to hand like any other ten-cent piece.
This astonishing story highlights just how easily some of America’s most valuable coins can go unnoticed in plain sight.
What Is a Clipped Planchet Error?
A clipped planchet error occurs when a blank metal disc (called a planchet) used to strike a coin is not perfectly cut from the metal sheet. This results in a coin missing a portion of its round shape — often seen as a crescent-shaped clip. Depending on how and where the clip occurs, it can be classified as curved, straight, ragged, or incomplete punch clip.
These errors are extremely rare, and when found on older or historically significant coins like the Roosevelt dime, their value can skyrocket.
The Roosevelt Dime in Question
The coin gaining attention in the numismatic community is a 1965 Roosevelt dime with a full curved clip covering about 15% of the planchet — a distinctive and clearly visible error. According to reports from collectors and grading services, this particular coin also displays “Blakesley effect,” where the edge across from the clip lacks a full strike — further confirming the authenticity of the error.
Experts believe this specific dime has changed hands multiple times in the past decade without anyone recognizing its true value. It was only recently flagged by a sharp-eyed collector who received it as change from a convenience store in Pennsylvania.
Why the $450,000 Valuation?
The sky-high valuation isn’t arbitrary. Error coins can command huge sums based on the type and severity of the error, date of minting, and condition of the coin. What makes this Roosevelt dime even more valuable is:
- Strong visible clip with clean details
- First year of clad coinage (1965) after the silver era
- Mint-state condition despite years in circulation
- Documented rarity of such large clips on Roosevelt dimes
Auction houses and private collectors have shown serious interest, with some experts estimating its potential auction price to be as high as $450,000, especially if accompanied by a professional grading.
Coins Like This Are Still Out There
This isn’t the first time a valuable error coin has turned up in everyday transactions. With millions of coins struck annually, it’s easy for rare minting mistakes to slip past quality control and end up in someone’s pocket.
Many Americans unknowingly use or discard coins that could be worth thousands — or in this case, nearly half a million. Coin experts advise that any coin with unusual edges, strange shapes, missing designs, or abnormal weights should be carefully examined or taken to a certified grading agency.
What Should You Look For?
If you’re curious whether you might have a treasure in your change jar, here are some signs of a clipped planchet:
- A smooth, curved cut on the edge of the coin
- A slightly thinner weight than a normal coin
- Distorted or incomplete edge reeding
- “Blakesley effect” — weaker detail on the edge opposite the clip
Not all clipped coins are valuable — but when the error is large and clean, and the coin is in good condition, the value can climb significantly.
Also Read:- This $100 Bill With Ink Error Still Circulating — One Just Sold for $135,000
Final Thoughts
The Roosevelt dime with a $450,000 price tag is a reminder that remarkable treasures may be hiding in plain sight. Whether it’s a gas station, vending machine, or toll booth, America’s coinage still holds surprises for those who pay attention.
So the next time you get change, don’t just pocket it — inspect it. A tiny coin with a missing chunk might just be your ticket to a small fortune.
