Owner Comments:
Philadelphia produced nearly 94 million Roosevelt dimes in 1961 and millions have survived in mint condition. However, coins with full torch strikes are relatively uncommon.
PCGS estimates that only 45,000 1961-P Roosevelts with FB strikes survive in MS 65 condition or better. In total, there are less than 175 Philadelphia Roosevelts dated 1961 with Full Torch or Full Bands designations (graded between MS 63 and MS 67) that have been certified by NGC and PCGS.
Grades above MS 67 are also uncommon. There are less than 25 1961-D dimes that have been certified with grades above MS 67 (including MS 67 FT).
The mint strengthened the spine of the G of GOD for the year, but the small nick at 4 o'clock on the O of GOD is still evident. Many will also have a noticeable mark between the left and center peaks of the W of WE. This mark is likely the result of an imperfect master die. CONECA listed this design variety as ODV-009.
This dime has a dark, spotty russet colored tone on both sides with steel blue color on the reverse and generally below-average eye-appeal. This coin may be a good candidate for conservation.
The coin has a nice strike with much of the details are lost in the dark toning. Significant contact marks are not present, but some smaller marks may be hidden by the toning. So again, this dime should perhaps be conserved.