Roosevelt Dime Found in Coffee Shop Tip Jar Turns Out to Be Silver

When a Roosevelt Dime Found in a Coffee Shop Tip Jar Turns Out to Be Silver

A barista or customer can sometimes spot an unusual coin in a tip jar. A Roosevelt dime inside a coffee shop tip jar might look ordinary, but if it dates from 1946 through 1964 it is likely 90% silver.

This article explains how to check a dime for silver, quick tests to use at home, and next steps if you discover a silver Roosevelt dime in a tip jar.

Why a Roosevelt Dime Found in a Coffee Shop Tip Jar Might Be Silver

Roosevelt dimes minted from 1946 through 1964 were struck in 90% silver. Coins dated 1965 and later are copper-nickel clad and not silver.

Because small change circulates widely, it is possible a silver dime finds its way into a tip jar and stays there for years.

Recognizing a silver Roosevelt dime

Start by checking the date on the coin. If the date is 1946–1964 the coin contains silver. Also note the color: silver dimes often have a different luster than modern clad dimes.

Do not assume surface appearance alone; corrosion, wear, and cleaning can change how a coin looks.

Practical Tests to Confirm the Dime Is Silver

Use simple, non-destructive checks first. Avoid aggressive testing that can damage the coin and reduce value.

• Check the date: 1946–1964 = 90% silver Roosevelt dimes.
• Weigh the coin: Silver Roosevelt dime weight is about 2.50 grams. Modern clad dimes weigh about 2.268 grams.
• Magnet test: Silver and copper are not magnetic. If a magnet strongly attracts the coin, it is not silver.
• Sound test: Gently drop the coin onto a soft surface; silver coins produce a distinct high-pitched ring, but this is subjective and not definitive.
• Visual checks: Look for consistent reeded edge and compare thickness and diameter to a known dime.

When to get professional help

If the coin is old, rare, or you suspect it has collector value beyond silver content, take it to a local coin dealer or numismatist. They can authenticate, grade, and advise on value.

Professional tools like an electronic scale to 0.01 g or X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis provide reliable, non-invasive confirmation.

How Much Is a Silver Roosevelt Dime Worth?

There are two value components: melt (metal) value and collectible (numismatic) value. Most common silver dimes are worth at least their silver melt value.

To estimate melt value, use the coin’s silver content and current silver spot price. A 90% silver Roosevelt dime contains about 2.25 grams of pure silver, which is about 0.0723 troy ounces.

• Calculation example: silver troy ounce value × 0.0723 = melt value of the dime.
• Example: If silver is $25 per troy ounce, melt value ≈ $1.81 (0.0723 × 25).

Rare dates or mint marks can carry premiums well above melt value. If the dime is in very good condition or a low-mintage year, consult a dealer or price guide.

What To Do If You Find a Silver Roosevelt Dime in a Tip Jar

Handle the coin carefully by the edges and store it in a soft holder. Avoid cleaning the coin; cleaning can harm numismatic value.

Consider these steps:

1. Confirm the date and mint mark without abrading the coin.
2. Perform non-destructive tests (weight, magnet) to check silver content.
3. Get a professional appraisal if the coin appears uncommon or in excellent condition.
4. Decide whether to sell for silver melt value or keep it as a collectible.

Where to sell or appraise

Local coin shops, reputable online marketplaces, and certified grading services are common options. Compare offers and check dealer reviews before selling.

Small Case Study: Coffee Shop Tip Jar Find

At a neighborhood coffee shop, a barista noticed a slightly heavier-looking dime in the tip jar and put it aside. The coin was dated 1952 and showed typical silver toning.

The barista used a small digital scale and measured the dime at about 2.50 grams, then consulted a local coin dealer who confirmed it was a 90% silver Roosevelt dime. Because it was a common date and circulated, the dealer valued it at melt price instead of a collector premium.

Summary: Quick Checklist if You Find a Roosevelt Dime in a Coffee Shop Tip Jar

• Check the date: 1946–1964 suggests silver.
• Weigh the coin and try a magnet test.
• Do not clean the coin.
• Get a professional appraisal for unusual dates or good condition coins.
• Compare melt value to collector offers before selling.

A Roosevelt dime found in a coffee shop tip jar can be a small, pleasant surprise. With a few careful checks you can confirm whether it is silver and make an informed decision about keeping, selling, or having it appraised.