Diagnostic Controls & Presets First Missing 'P' Business Error • $100–$300+ Value
Diagnostic Forensic Readings
Forensic Attribution Diagnostic
Real-time metallurgical and die variety cross-examination verified against certified populations.
Technical Breakdown: Physics, Metallurgy & Die Diagnostics
1980 Philadelphia 'P' Mintmark Mandate
In 1980, the U.S. Mint ended a 188-year tradition of omitting mintmarks on Philadelphia coins by adding the letter 'P' to nickels, dimes, quarters, and halves (only cents remained plain):
In late 1982, an obverse die missing the punched 'P' was installed at Philadelphia. Approximately 10,000 coins escaped into circulation before the die was retired, discovered initially in Ohio and Pennsylvania.
Strong Strike vs Weak Strike Varieties
Two distinct reverse working dies were paired with the 'No P' obverse:
The Strong Strike variety commands approximately a 25% to 40% premium in gem grades because the design relief is noticeably bolder.
Documented Benchmark Auction Records
Heritage Auctions Signature Sale. Superb Gem with Full Bands designation, untouched blazing cartwheel luster, and sharp wire rim.
Stack's Bowers Galleries Americana Session. Typical uncirculated specimen showing the softer basined die characteristics.
Standard business strike with the 'P' mintmark clearly present. 519 million minted; face value in circulated grades.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the 1982 'No P' Dime so famous?
It is the very first United States circulation business strike coin ever made that was supposed to have a mintmark but accidentally omitted it. Up until 1979, Philly coins never had mintmarks, but 1980 changed the law.
How many 1982 'No P' dimes were produced?
Numismatic experts estimate between 8,000 and 10,000 coins were struck from the single un-mintmarked working die before the error was caught.
What is the difference between Strong and Weak strikes on the 1982 No P?
The Strong Strike comes from an early die state with crisp lettering and high rim relief. The Weak Strike comes from a die that was heavily polished to remove die clash marks, resulting in thinner letters and lower relief.
How much is a 1982 'No P' dime worth today?
In circulated condition (AU), they sell for $50 to $85. In Mint State 65 uncirculated condition, they are worth $150 to $200, and top grades with Full Bands reach $400+.
Where were the 1982 'No P' dimes discovered?
The first specimens were discovered in December 1982 in circulation around Sandusky, Ohio, particularly inside Cedar Point amusement park pay packets and local banks.
Could someone fake a 1982 'No P' dime?
Yes, by grinding or buffing off the 'P' mintmark. However, third-party graders like PCGS and NGC check for disrupted radial flowlines, depressed metal hollows, and specific die scratch markers unique to the genuine die.
Does Denver (1982-D) have a 'No Mintmark' error?
No. The 1982-D dimes all properly received their 'D' mintmark punches in Denver.