The 1994-S Roosevelt Dime PCGS PR70DCAM is a coin that embodies the highest standards of modern numismatics. The combination of its proof status, the perfect “70” grade, and the “Deep Cameo” designation makes it a highly sought-after piece for collectors.
The Special Nature of Proof Coins
The U.S. Mint’s San Francisco branch (“S” mint mark) produces proof coins specifically for collectors. These coins are struck with polished dies on specially prepared planchets, resulting in a distinct visual appeal. The fields of the coin are deeply mirrored, almost like a reflective pool, while the raised design elements (like Roosevelt’s portrait and the torch) have a frosted, matte finish. This “cameo” effect is a hallmark of proof coinage.
Understanding the PCGS PR70DCAM Grade
This grade is a confluence of three key elements:
- PCGS: The Professional Coin Grading Service is a top third-party grading company, and its certification is a guarantee of the coin’s authenticity and condition.
- PR70: This is the highest possible grade on the 70-point Sheldon Scale. It signifies a coin that is absolutely flawless, even under 5x magnification. The PR stands for “Proof,” confirming it’s a collector’s strike.
- DCAM (Deep Cameo): This designation is given to proof coins with the strongest possible contrast between the mirrored fields and the frosted devices. It’s a visual rarity that adds significant value.
PCGS Population Data and Rarity
The mintage for the 1994-S clad proof dime was approximately 2,484,594. While this is a high number, the population data from PCGS tells the real story of its rarity in a perfect state. A coin’s value isn’t just about how many were made, but about how many survived in a flawless condition.
- Population of PR70DCAM: The number of 1994-S clad dimes certified by PCGS as PR70DCAM is a small fraction of the total mintage. While the exact number can change as more coins are submitted for grading, it is typically in the low thousands. This makes a perfect-grade coin a “conditional rarity.” Many of the original proof coins have been scratched, fingerprinted, or suffered other damage over time, preventing them from ever receiving the coveted PR70 grade.
- The DCAM Factor: The “Deep Cameo” designation is a crucial part of the story. A coin may be graded a PR70, but without the “DCAM” it is worth considerably less. The vibrant, contrasting cameo effect is what collectors are looking for, and coins that lack this feature simply don’t hold the same value.
Value and Market Summary
The value of a 1994-S Roosevelt Dime in PCGS PR70DCAM condition is driven by its rarity and high demand from collectors.
- Auction Record: The auction record for a 1994-S clad dime in PR70DCAM condition is $495, from a sale in November 2003. This higher price likely reflects a time when the population of perfect examples was lower and the demand was high.
- Current Market Value: In the current market, prices are typically more modest but still hold a significant premium. Sales on platforms like eBay and dealer prices generally fall in the $20 to $50 range, depending on market fluctuations. It’s important to note the difference between the clad and silver versions of the 1994-S proof dime; the silver version is worth more due to its composition and lower mintage.
In conclusion, the 1994-S Roosevelt Dime PCGS PR70DCAM is an exceptional coin. Its high value is a direct result of its perfection as certified by PCGS, and the low population of flawless examples compared to its original mintage.
