Designed by: John R. Sinnock
Issue Dates: 1965 to date
Composition: Pure copper core to which a copper-nickel (75% copper, 25% nickel) is bonded
Diameter: 17.9 mm
Weight: 2.27 grams (35.03 grains)
Edge: Reeded
Business Strike Mintage: 98,098,260,940 (Through 2020)

For roughly the first two decades, there were no changes to the Roosevelt dime, but in 1965, the 90% silver content was replaced by a “sandwich” design which surrounded an inner core of pure copper with outer layers of copper-nickel. Now approaching 80 years old, other than the alloy change in 1965, the Roosevelt dime remains virtually unchanged since its introduction.

In recent years, the attention of some collectors has turned to the detail present on the torch on the reverse, and full straps or bands on the torch as well as full detail in the flame is now recognized by the major grading services. Certain dates with the “FB” (PCGS) or “FT” (NGC) designation now bring well into four-figure prices in very high grade (MS67 or higher) due largely to competition among set registry collectors.

Full Bands

About 20 years or so ago, some collectors began searching for, and paying a premium price for Roosevelt times with full separation on the bands seen on the torch.  In response to this interest, the grading services added the FB (PCGS) or FT (NGC) designation to Roosevelt dimes.  Note that both the upper and lower set of bands must show full separation to qualify for the designation.