Social media buzz is heating up over a supposed “new 2022 dime error” that recently sold for $13.50. Dubbed the “burning branch” or “strikethrough error”, collectors are asking: Is this the next big coin discovery… or just hype?
At PennyVerse.info, we break down what this error really is, why it’s worth only a modest premium, and how to separate true mint errors from minor curiosities.
🔍 Key Identification Features
The 2022 Roosevelt dime looks the same as most modern dimes, but here’s where to focus:
➡️ Obverse (Front – Roosevelt’s Head)
- Franklin D. Roosevelt profile
- Year “2022” at bottom
- Mint mark (P or D) near the date
➡️ Reverse (Back – Torch, Olive & Oak Branches)
- Torch (Liberty), Olive Branch (Peace), Oak Branch (Strength)
- Inscriptions: “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “ONE DIME”
🔥 The “Burning Branch” / Strikethrough Error
- Appears as a gouge or weak strike on the branches
- Caused by foreign material (grease, cloth, debris) on the die during striking
- Results in missing or distorted details — often mistaken for damage
💰 Value Breakdown: $13.50 vs. Real Error Money
Yes, one sold for $13.50, but here’s perspective:
Major Mint Errors (High Value 💎)
- Doubled dies (e.g., 1969-S Lincoln cent)
- Off-center strikes
- Wrong planchet strikes (e.g., 1943 copper cent)
- Mule errors (mismatched dies)
➡️ Can sell for hundreds, thousands, or even millions
Minor Mint Errors (Low Value 🔎)
- Small die chips & cracks
- Grease-filled dies (like this strikethrough)
- Machine doubling
➡️ Usually bring $5–$25 unless dramatic
👉 The “burning branch” dime falls in the minor error category. The $13.50 sale is novelty pricing, not numismatic history.
🧪 5-Step Authentication Protocol
Not sure what you’ve got? Use this checklist:
1️⃣ Visual Check – Does the error match known strikethroughs?
2️⃣ Damage vs. Error – Post-mint scratches = no value.
3️⃣ Check Reputable Sources – Search error coin forums & PCGS/NGC references.
4️⃣ Market Comparison – Compare $13.50 dime vs. $100K doubled dies.
5️⃣ Grading Decision – Only submit to PCGS/NGC if the error is major (fees exceed minor error values).
💎 Why Some Errors Are Valuable
✔️ Rarity – Few survivors = big money
✔️ Visibility – Dramatic errors fetch more than microscopic flaws
✔️ Error Type – Die creation errors > strike anomalies
✔️ Collector Demand – Is it exciting, or just niche?
The 2022 dime error scores low in rarity and visibility — explaining the small premium.
🏦 Where to Sell a Minor Error
- eBay – Best for $5–$25 “curiosity” errors
- Local coin shows – Some collectors enjoy small varieties
- Not for major auction houses – They want coins worth hundreds+
⚠️ Warning: Never clean or polish your coin — it destroys collector value.
📸 What to Do if You Find One
- Take clear macro photos of both sides
- Document the location & date found
- Email us at verify@pennyverse.info for a quick check
- If dramatic, consider grading & encapsulation
🎁 With each evaluation, we provide:
✔️ A Minor Error Assessment Report
✔️ Advice on grading vs. raw sale
✔️ Current market estimate
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