The 1989 Roosevelt Dime marks a significant transition in U.S. coinage history. This was the first year the U.S. Mint replaced the traditional 90% silver composition with a more durable copper-nickel clad alloy. This change was prompted by rising silver prices, making the 1989 dime the first non-silver Roosevelt Dime.
Obverse (Front)
The obverse features a right-facing portrait of Franklin D. Roosevelt, honoring his leadership and contributions, including the establishment of the March of Dimes. The inscriptions include:
- "LIBERTY" to the left,
- "IN GOD WE TRUST" below the chin,
- The date 1989 beneath Roosevelt’s neck, with the JS initials of engraver John R. Sinnock.
Reverse (Back)
The reverse features three symbolic elements:
- An olive branch, symbolizing peace,
- A torch, representing liberty,
- An oak branch, standing for strength and victory. The inscriptions include:
- "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" along the top,
- "E PLURIBUS UNUM" (Latin for "Out of Many, One") at the center,
- "ONE DIME" at the bottom.
Specifications
- Composition: Copper-Nickel Clad (91.67% Copper, 8.33% Nickel)
- Weight: 2.268 grams
- Diameter: 17.91 mm
- Thickness: 1.35 mm
- Edge: Reeded (118 reeds)
- KM#195a
Why Collect the 1989 Roosevelt Dime?
As the first clad dime in U.S. history, the 1989 Roosevelt Dime is a key coin for both modern and transitional coin collectors. It represents the shift from silver to base metals, making it an essential piece for those interested in numismatic milestones.
