1987-S 10C, DCAM PR70DCAM Certification #48703586, PCGS #95269

The 1987-S Roosevelt Dime in PR70DCAM represents one of the final chapters in the classic proof coinage of the 20th century. Struck at the San Francisco Mint during a period when proof sets were reaching peak collector interest, this coin showcases the height of U.S. Mint craftsmanship in the pre-digital die era. While not a key date by mintage, its perfect PR70DCAM grade elevates it far above the average — fewer than 1 in 100 coins from this era achieve that designation. In historical context, 1987 marked a transitional time in U.S. numismatics. The coin collecting boom of the 1980s was cooling off, yet the market was beginning to reward ultra-high grade modern coins. This dime, with its deep cameo contrast and flawless surfaces, is a snapshot of that shift — when collectors began to value modern perfection just as much as rarity. For a registry builder or a serious modern proof enthusiast, the 1987-S PR70DCAM is an essential piece: not for its scarcity in raw numbers, but for its scarcity in perfection. It reminds us that even the most common designs can become exceptional when preserved and presented at their absolute finest.

Charles Morgan

1987-S Roosevelt Dime Proof

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of its current facility, the San Francisco Mint opened its doors to an unprecedented 2,263 visitors for a tour under heavy guard. Security measures were stringent; guests were required to surrender belts, shoes, jewelry, and pocket change before entering.

The facility remained remarkably productive during this period. In 1987, San Francisco was responsible for striking the entire American Silver Eagle issuance and the largest mintage of Proof coinage to that date. The pursuit of perfection was exhaustive. The United States Mint reported using up to 10,000 towels daily to clean and polish the dies and planchets to ensure a mirror-like finish.

The Mint struck 3,792,233 Proof Roosevelt Dimes for standard Proof Sets and an additional 435,495 for the relatively new Prestige Sets.

• Standard Proof Sets: Contained five coins: 1987-S Lincoln Cent (#93488), Jefferson Nickel (#94222), 1987-S Roosevelt Dime (#95269), 1987-S Washington Quarter (#96023), and 1987-S Kennedy Half Dollar (#96828). They were priced at $11 (approximately $32 today). Nearly all of these qualify for our Deep Cameo designation.
• Prestige Sets: Housed in an book-like display case, these sets included the standard five coins plus the 1987-S Constitution Bicentennial Commemorative Silver Dollar Proof (#9625). These were sold for $45 (approximately $130 today).

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