History of FDR (1882-1945) Roosevelt was the only American president elected to office four times and led his country through two of the greatest crises of the 20th century - the Great Depression and World War Two. Franklin Delano Roosevelt (commonly known as "FDR") was born in Hyde Park, NY on January 30, 1882. In 1905 he married Anna Eleanor Roosevelt. In political life he served as a state senator, Assistant Secretary of the Navy and as President of the United States from 1933 to 1945. History of the Roosevelt Dime U.S. Mint Director Nellie Tayloe Ross wanted the new Roosevelt Dime ready to be released on what would have been President Roosevelt's 64th birthday, January 30, 1946 which was also the day that the 1946 March of Dimes fundraiser was to kick off. So, instead of the normal contest among American artists for the design of the coin, Chief Engraver John R. Sinnock was chosen to design the new dime piece because he had previously designed a medal of President Roosevelt. Sinnock's choice of design elements for the reverse of the Roosevelt Dime included: a torch symbolizing liberty an olive branch symbolizing peace an oak branch symbolizing victory In 2003, a group of conservative Republicans in Congress proposed removing Roosevelt's image from the dime, and replacing it with that of President Ronald Reagan, although he was still alive. Legislation to this effect was introduced in November 2003 by Indiana Representative Mark Souder. Amongst the more notable opponents of the legislation was Nancy Reagan, who in December 2003 stated that, "When our country chooses to honor a great president such as Franklin Roosevelt by placing his likeness on our currency, it would be wrong to remove him." After President Reagan's death in June 2004, the proposed legislation gained additional support. Souder, however, stated that he was not going to pursue the legislation any further. Coin Specifications Designer John R Sinnock Composition 91.67% Cu 8.33% Ni Weight 2.268 grams Diameter 17.96 mm Thickness 1.35 mm Edge 118 reeds Why I collect Roosevelt Dimes I collect them because I really like the design of the dime. I love searching through rolls in search of the Full Torches. Just like the Jefferson nickel with the steps the Roosevelt dime also brings a premium when the FT is on the TPG label. NGC began certifying Full Torch (FT) Roosevelt Dimes April 14, 2003. The designation FT for Full Torch will be applied to Roosevelt Dimes having both upper and lower pair of horizontal bands split as well as the vertical lines of the torch being defined. The FT designation will not apply to proof coins. The addition of the FT designation comes at the overwhelming request from NGC's collector and dealer base. NGC uses FT and PCGS uses FB on there labels but NGC is tougher on the Full Torches. I also believe that the Roosevelt Dime is a sleeper and someday will explode in value. I only collect high grade proofs at the moment but I also have 3 dansco albums that I am working on. I only fill the slots with nice full torch coins. I also love the look of the toned proof Roosevelt’s. The toned proof Roosevelt market is low and most don’t bring a high premium like other toned coins. Here is my collection thus far. Thanks,
I also collect Roosies for me it is the simplicity of the design as much as the admiration I have for the man, I dont think my collection is up to the same standard as schatzy's but I love what I have :hug:
Very informative post, Schatzy! I like Roosevelts as well, and have several complete silver sets. All are in circulated condition, but I still love them. One set came from my grandparents and the other I assembles from roll finds over about 20 years. I think the Roosevelt dime has to be the most under-appreciated coin in modern times. But, thats good for those of us who like them, as it keeps prices way low Guy~
When my wife gets back from vacation with the camera I got a sick rosie you might want to check out. She is due back this weekend so hopefully I can get some up on sunday.
You probably know that my Roosevelt set is complete (silver only). The business strikes are all MS-66 with a few FTs. The proofs are all PF-67. I'd put it in the NGC Registry Set except it probably wouldn't compare well the the better sets. Sounds like yours is/will be one of those top sets.
I myself love Roosevelt as many may know. I collect more of toned coins only, specially silver. There is nothing wrong with collecting dimes. I think they are even overlooked as some say. But they should not be.
This isnt about being #1 as I could care less about it. When my set is finished I will most likely be #1 in the registry but that wasn't the goal when I started my set.
I don't know if I will ever finish......there is already coins I buy when I have a coin in a better grade already. I have 3 1963 PF68UC and 1 PF69UC but I always find myself looking at coins I already have and still end up buying because I simply couldn't pass it up. I get a thrill in the search for more coins!!
Nice write-up and presentation there Jaime. I have a seen alot of your roosies and know that you are diligent in your quest. Thanks for sharing!!
