Plated 1994-P Roosevelt Dime (Not Solid Gold)
Plated Cupro-Nickel Coin · Yellow gold plating; thin topical application via electroplating or chemical wash.
Purity: Likely 24K gold plating (negligible thickness) over a base metal core of 75% copper and 25% nickel plated to a pure copper core.
Type
Plated Cupro-Nickel Coin
Purity
Likely 24K gold plating (negligible thickness) over a base metal core of 75% copper and 25% nickel plated to a pure copper core.
Gold Type
Yellow gold plating; thin topical application via electroplating or chemical wash.
Weight
2.268 grams (standard US Dime weight); gold content accounts for less than 0.001% of total weight.
Description
This is a standard 1994-P Roosevelt Dime that has been aftermarket gold-plated. While it possesses a golden appearance, it is a novelty item often sold in 'gold-plated sets' or used in jewelry. The underlying coin is a common circulation issue made of cupro-nickel. The gold color is an aesthetic modification and does not indicate intrinsic bullion value.
Key Features
Distinctive yellow hue on a standard US currency strike; 'P' mint mark indicating Philadelphia origin; Roosevelt portrait obverse.
Color & Finish
Vivid gold-toned yellow with a dull, matte luster; shows signs of high-point wear and surface oxidation (greyish toning) typical of thin plating.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Contains US Mint marks only: 'P' (Philadelphia Mint), 'LIBERTY', 'IN GOD WE TRUST', and '1994'. No gold purity hallmarks like 10K, 14K, or 585 are present because the coin is not solid gold.
Dimensions Estimate
17.91 mm diameter, 1.35 mm thickness.
Gemstones & Inlays
None; standard circulation coin design.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (milled edge with 118 reeds).
Chain & Links
Not applicable; solid disc construction.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck by the US Mint with secondary aftermarket electroplating. The strike is standard for 1990s business-class strikes; plating is unevenly applied as seen by the dark patches.
Authentication Indicators
Red flags for gold authenticity include the specific denomination (the US Mint has never produced a 24K or 14K gold Roosevelt dime for circulation or as a standard bullion product). The weight and 'look' of the metal in worn areas reveal the base metal beneath.
Origin & Maker
United States Mint (Philadelphia Facility).
Era & Period
Modern Era (1994); Roosevelt Dime series (1946-present).
Age Estimate
Produced in 1994; approximately 30 years old.
Cultural Significance
Represents the transition of precious metals from currency to decorative novelty in the late 20th century.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine (Circulated). Visible surface scratching, darkening of the plating in recessed areas, and minor edge dings. The plating is beginning to wear away on high points like Roosevelt’s cheek.
Value Estimate
Face value of $0.10. Collector/novelty value approximately $0.50 to $1.00. Melt value is negligible (less than $0.05).
Care & Maintenance
Avoid acidic cleaners or abrasive polishing cloths, as these will instantly remove the microscopically thin layer of gold plating, revealing the silver-colored nickel beneath.
Similar Items
2016-W Winged Liberty (Mercury) Head Gold Centennial Coin (this IS solid .9999 gold and highly valuable, unlike the 1994 dime).
Interesting Facts
Gold-plating coins was a popular marketing tactic in the 1990s by private mints using 'TV shopping' channels to sell everyday currency as 'collectibles' at a high premium.