1983-P 10C MS66 Certification #32938442, PCGS #5164

Charles Morgan

During the second year of Donna Pope’s tenure as Director of the United States Mint, the bureau shifted its numismatic focus toward high-profile precious metal commemoratives. The upcoming 1984 Los Angeles Summer Olympics sparked massive national interest, leading Congress to propose several expansive multi-year coin programs. While these proposals were eventually scaled back, the resulting program still featured the first gold coins issued by the U.S. since 1933.

The Missing Mint Sets of 1983

The logistical demands of the Olympic program—which required the West Point Bullion Depository to assist in striking gold coins—led the Mint to extend its moratorium on annual Uncirculated Coin Sets for a second year.

This absence had a profound impact on the hobby. Without a "one-stop shop" for collectors to acquire pristine specimens, 1983 coinage had to be sourced directly from commercial channels and circulation. Consequently, finding high-quality, sharply struck examples of the 1983-P Roosevelt Dime (PCGS #5164 / #85164) is remarkably difficult today.

Market Value: From Pocket Change to Certified Gems

While a 1983-P Roosevelt Dime found in circulation has a "notional" value of approximately $1, this figure reflects low-level eBay trade activity rather than an established industry price set by professional buyers. The value for Mint State (MS) examples is higher, typically ranging from $4 to $6.

The 1983-P dime truly shines in the highest Mint State grades—specifically those exhibiting Full Torch (FT) detail. Due to the degraded condition of the hubs and dies used that year, sharply struck specimens are remarkably scarce. In fact, less than 2% of all 1983-P dimes submitted to PCGS have earned the Full Torch designation. While additional specimens may eventually surface, the supply of original, unsearched Mint State rolls is dwindling, making a Full Torch 1983-P one of the most elusive targets for modern dime collectors.

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