A dusty old coin album in a Virginia attic turned one woman’s spring cleaning into a life-changing moment. Jane Carter, a 64-year-old retired teacher, discovered a rare Roosevelt dime worth a whopping $1.5 million. The coin, tucked away in her late father’s collection, has stunned experts and sparked a wave of excitement among coin hunters. This heartwarming story shows how a forgotten keepsake can hold a fortune waiting to be found.
A Trip Down Memory Lane
Last March, Carter decided to tidy up her attic in Richmond, where she stumbled upon her father’s old coin album. “Dad loved collecting coins when I was a kid,” she said, smiling. “I hadn’t looked at it in years.” Flipping through the faded pages, she noticed a shiny silver dime that stood out. Thinking it might be special, she took it to a local coin shop. The shop owner gasped—it was a 1969-S Roosevelt dime with a rare error. Carter had no clue she was holding a treasure worth millions.
What Makes This Dime So Valuable?
The 1969-S Roosevelt dime is a collector’s dream because of a minting mistake. Most dimes from that year have a small “S” mark, showing they were made in San Francisco. But a few were accidentally struck without a “proof” finish, making them unique. Only a handful are known to exist, and Carter’s dime was in near-perfect condition. At a recent auction in Philadelphia, it sold for $1.5 million, thrilling coin enthusiasts. Its rarity and pristine state drove the price sky-high.
| Coin Details | Description |
|---|---|
| Type | 1969-S Roosevelt Dime |
| Mint Error | Non-Proof Finish |
| Total Known | Fewer than 10 |
| Auction Value | $1.5 Million |
| Condition | Near Mint |
From Attic to Auction Stardom
After the coin shop’s discovery, Carter sent the dime to a professional grading service to confirm its authenticity. The experts gave it a high score for its sharp details and lack of wear. “I couldn’t believe something so tiny was worth so much,” Carter said. She decided to auction it, hoping to honor her father’s memory and secure her retirement. The bidding was fierce, with collectors from across the country vying for the prize. A private buyer won the dime for $1.5 million. Carter plans to use the money to travel, help her grandkids with school, and donate to a local library.
Could More Treasures Be Out There?
Carter’s find has inspired people to dig through their own family heirlooms. Coin experts say rare dimes like this could still be hiding in old albums or boxes. To spot a valuable Roosevelt dime, check for these signs:
- 1969 date with an “S” mint mark
- Standard silver look, not shiny like a proof coin
- Clear details on Roosevelt’s face and the torch on the back Experts warn against cleaning old coins, as it can lower their value. If you find something unusual, visit a trusted coin dealer for advice.
A New Chapter for Jane
Carter’s discovery has made her a local celebrity, with neighbors calling her “Million-Dime Jane.” She’s still amazed by the turn of events. “I just wanted to clean my attic,” she said, sipping coffee in her cozy kitchen. “Now I’m planning a trip to Italy!” Her story has sparked a coin-hunting craze, with people checking attics, basements, and even grandpa’s old cigar boxes. Coin expert Mark Sullivan says finds like this are rare but possible. “You never know what’s tucked away,” he said. Carter hopes her story encourages others to look closely at family treasures—you might find a million-dollar dime waiting to shine.
