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The Proof Roosevelt Dime 2015-W Silver is a remarkable modern U.S. coin that holds both historical and numismatic significance due to its unique attributes and commemorative purpose. Issued by the United States Mint as part of a special 2015 release, this coin is struck in .900 fine silver and bears the prestigious “W” mintmark of the West Point Mint. It was released exclusively within the “2015 March of Dimes Special Silver Set” to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the March of Dimes, an organization closely tied to President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s legacy. The 2015-W silver proof dime, along with its companion coins, represents a fitting tribute to one of America’s most enduring public health campaigns and its presidential founder.
The Roosevelt dime was introduced in 1946, following Roosevelt’s death in 1945. As the 32nd president of the United States and a victim of polio, Roosevelt was intimately connected to the March of Dimes, an organization initially created to combat the disease. Designed by John R. Sinnock, the Roosevelt dime was meant to honor the president’s leadership and humanitarian legacy. While most Roosevelt dimes since 1965 have been struck in copper-nickel clad, the 2015-W silver edition returns to the coin’s original composition of 90% silver and 10% copper, offering a nostalgic and precious nod to its mid-20th-century origins.
The obverse of the 2015-W Silver Proof Roosevelt Dime features the iconic left-facing profile of Franklin D. Roosevelt. Sculpted in a style that emphasizes realism and presidential dignity, the portrait is surrounded by inscriptions including “LIBERTY” on the left, “IN GOD WE TRUST” below Roosevelt’s chin, and the date “2015” positioned to the right. Beneath the date sits the small but important “W” mintmark, denoting its striking at the West Point Mint. Sinnock’s initials “JS” appear at the base of Roosevelt’s neck. The fields of the coin are deeply mirrored, while the devices have a frosted finish, creating the classic proof contrast that collectors value.
The reverse of the coin carries the traditional design used on Roosevelt dimes since 1946, which features a lit torch at the center, flanked by an olive branch on the left and an oak branch on the right. This trio of symbols represents liberty, peace, and strength. The inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and “ONE DIME” are arranged around the perimeter of the coin. The proof finish brings out the intricate detail of the flame, leaves, and lettering, with the mirrored background enhancing the three-dimensional effect of the raised elements. The balance and symbolism of the reverse are a testament to Sinnock’s enduring design sensibility.
The coin is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, the same metal content found in pre-1965 dimes. It weighs 2.5 grams and has a diameter of 17.9 mm. Though its face value is just ten cents, its silver content and collectibility give it far greater value on the numismatic market. This precious-metal version of the Roosevelt dime is not intended for circulation, but rather for inclusion in high-end collector sets. The quality of the proof strike is evident in its crisp edges, high relief, and the gleaming contrast between mirrored and frosted surfaces.
The 2015-W Silver Proof Dime was offered exclusively in the 2015 March of Dimes Special Silver Set, which also included a 2015-P Reverse Proof Silver Roosevelt Dime and a 2015-W Silver Proof March of Dimes Commemorative Dollar. The set was released by the U.S. Mint on May 4, 2015, and quickly sold out due to high demand and a limited maximum mintage of 75,000 sets. Since the coin was never offered individually, all existing examples originate from those limited sets, adding to its rarity and collector appeal.
The coin's issue through the West Point Mint marks it as part of a tradition of high-quality, low-mintage numismatic products. West Point has long been a premier location for striking American Eagle bullion and commemorative coins, and its “W” mintmark is highly respected in the collecting community. The decision to use this facility for the 2015 Silver Proof Roosevelt Dime underscores the coin's importance and premium status. The addition of this mintmark to a Roosevelt dime was a first for silver proofs, setting it apart from regular-issue proof dimes produced at the San Francisco Mint.
Many examples of the 2015-W Silver Proof Roosevelt Dime have been certified by leading third-party grading services such as NGC and PCGS. These coins typically achieve high grades of PF69 and PF70 Ultra Cameo, indicating coins with minimal to no visible flaws and deeply mirrored surfaces. Coins that achieve a perfect PF70 grade with designations like “First Strike” or “Early Releases” command strong premiums on the secondary market. Encapsulation by reputable grading companies further ensures preservation and authenticity, while special commemorative labels enhance the coin's visual appeal and marketability.
While modern proof dimes are produced in relatively high numbers, the 2015-W Silver Proof stands apart due to its limited mintage, special issue origin, unique mintmark, and inclusion in a historic commemorative set. It is often sought after not just by Roosevelt dime collectors, but also by those building comprehensive sets of silver commemoratives or special Mint releases. Its connection to the March of Dimes further elevates its significance, reflecting both a humanitarian cause and the presidency of a man who fundamentally shaped 20th-century American policy and culture.
Collectors of Roosevelt dimes often view the 2015-W as a cornerstone issue within the series. It represents a rare deviation from the norm in both mint origin and finish, bridging the past with the present by combining a vintage composition with a modern proof strike. As the first W-mint Roosevelt silver proof dime ever made, it serves as a key date for specialists and a compelling acquisition for general collectors alike. Its pairing with the reverse proof dime and commemorative dollar in the March of Dimes set further enhances its narrative, offering a three-coin journey through Roosevelt's legacy in coinage and health advocacy.
In summary, the 2015-W Silver Proof Roosevelt Dime is a uniquely important modern issue, embodying the artistry, symbolism, and technical excellence of U.S. Mint products. With its West Point origin, limited mintage, silver composition, and commemorative purpose, it remains one of the most desirable Roosevelt dimes produced in the 21st century. Whether kept in original Mint packaging or certified in top condition, this coin offers collectors a piece of history that honors both a great American leader and the enduring values of strength, peace, and liberty.