When contemplating some of the most intriguing Modern US coins, several of the No S Proof coins come in mind. In particular, the 1968-S Proof Dime -- the first date for the Roosevelt Dime Proofs without the "S" mint mark. After thorough research, experts concluded that the "S" mint mark was not punched into the die creating this new variety. The mistake must have been caught by mint employees early in the process as only a few examples managed to escape. This was also the first date for any series of US coins where the "S" mint mark was omitted.

Walter Breen's "Encyclopedia of US Coins" reported 6 known at the time of publishing. However, some experts in the field concluded there were more than 6 but less than 12 in existence. Currently the PCGS Population Report shows 15 examples in all grades: six coins in Proof 67 and four in Proof 68 (without the Cameo designation). For the Cameo designation, one has been graded Proof 66 Cameo and the three highest graded are in Proof 68 Cameo. Whatever numbers of examples exist today, we know for certain it is a very small quantity. We may never know for sure the exact amount but owning an example with such intriguing history behind it can be a story of its own.

If one would have acquired an example back in 1999 it would have proven to be a wise decision. Some of the few major appearances for these coins have been through major auction firms. For example, in 1999 a PCGS PR 68 example realized $6,038. Since then, the 1968-S "No S" Proof Dime has appreciated efficiently in price. The most recent sale in 2006 saw a PR 68 Cameo example sell in a Heritage Auction for $48,875. One prior sale was in 2005 for a PR 68 example which fetched $32,200 at auction.