We use coin rolls every day without even thinking about it. They’re a simple way to keep our change organized, whether we’re saving up for something special or just trying to wrangle the coins accumulating in our car’s cupholder. And dimes? Well, they’re a pretty common sight in all that loose change.
So, how many dimes are in a roll of dimes, exactly? This article will break down everything you need to know, including the number of coins, the total face value, the weight of a roll, and even whether those dimes might be worth more than just ten cents apiece.
How many dimes are in a standard roll?
A standard roll of dimes, whether U.S. or Canadian, contains 50 coins. Rolls make it easy to keep track of your coins, since you know exactly how many you have.
To understand why rolls are the size they are, it can help to consider the size of the coins themselves.
A U.S. dime has a diameter of 17.9 mm, or about 0.7 inches. Canadian dimes are just a tiny bit bigger, at 18.03 mm.
Face value versus collector’s value
So, you’ve got a roll of dimes. The obvious question is, how much is it worth?
Face value of a roll of dimes
The face value of a roll of 50 dimes is, quite simply, $5.00. That’s 50 dimes multiplied by ten cents apiece.
The potential for collector’s value
But a roll of dimes could be worth much more than $5.00. Dimes minted in the U.S. before 1965 contain 90% silver. These dimes, often Mercury dimes (minted before 1946) or early Roosevelt dimes, are worth more than their face value because of their silver content and their condition.
The “melt value” of a silver dime is how much the raw silver in the coin is worth. You can find the current melt value of a silver dime by checking precious metals prices online.
The mint mark on a coin (usually a “D” for Denver or “S” for San Francisco) can also affect its value by showing its rarity and how desirable it is to collectors.
And, although it’s not common, sometimes you’ll find a foreign coin or two mixed in with U.S. coins in a roll.
Weight and cost of a roll of dimes
So, now you know how many dimes are in a roll. But what does a roll of dimes weigh, and what does it cost?
Weight of a roll of dimes
A roll of modern dimes made after 1964 weighs about 113.4 grams. Because each modern dime weighs around 2.268 grams, you can weigh a roll of dimes to quickly check whether the roll is complete.
A roll of pre-1964 dimes that are 90% silver is heavier, weighing around 123.2 grams. The extra weight is due to the silver content.
If you’re buying or selling dimes, weight is a quick way to check if a roll contains valuable silver dimes.
Cost of a roll of dimes
The face value of a roll of dimes is $5.00. That’s what you’ll pay at the bank or if you’re wrapping your own dimes.
But the market cost of a roll of silver dimes can vary quite a bit, depending on the spot price of silver and the value of the coins to collectors.
Exchanging and Using Rolls of Dimes
So, you’ve got a roll (or several rolls) of dimes. What can you do with them?
Banks are the most obvious place to exchange rolled dimes for cash. Keep in mind that policies differ between banks, and even between branches of the same bank. Check with your local branch to confirm their policy before lugging in a pile of dimes.
Coinstar kiosks are another option, but they charge a processing fee. You can often avoid this fee by opting for a gift card instead of cash.
Some retailers might accept rolled coins, but that’s not a guarantee.
Putting It All Together
So, to recap, a standard paper roll of dimes contains 50 coins, with a total face value of $5.00. But that’s not all there is to the story.
Remember that you might find valuable silver dimes in those rolls, especially if you check the dates and mint marks closely. Even a common-looking dime could be worth more than you think if it’s made of silver or has a rare mint mark.
The next time you come across a roll of dimes, take a moment to appreciate the history and potential value hidden inside. You never know what treasures you might find!