Have you ever checked the coins in your pocket or piggy bank and wondered if any of them are valuable? Some coins from the 1970s are worth way more than their face value—some over $10,000! These coins became rare because of minting mistakes, design changes, and limited production. Let’s look at five rare 1970s coins, how to spot them, and why they’re so valuable.
Why Are Some 1970s Coins So Valuable?
Coins from the 1970s might seem common, but a few hidden gems are worth thousands. Their high value comes from three main things:
- Rarity – There aren’t many of them around.
- Condition – The better the shape, the more it’s worth.
- Minting Errors – Mistakes during production make them special.
The U.S. Mint made big changes in the 1970s, and some errors slipped through. Collectors love these coins because they’re so unique.
Top 5 Valuable 1970s Coins to Look Out For
1. 1971‑S Lincoln Cent (Double Die Obverse)
This coin has a clear minting error—some parts of the design appear doubled, especially on Lincoln’s face, the word “LIBERTY,” and the date.
How to Spot It:
- Look closely with a magnifier.
- Compare with official photos of the double die version.
- Coins in great condition (MS-65+) can be worth over $10,000.
2. 1974‑S Lincoln Cent (Brockage Error)
This mistake happens when one coin gets stuck in the machine and leaves a mirror image on the next one. The result is a coin with backwards features.
What to Look For:
- Reversed or smeared parts on one side.
- It may look like a “ghost” copy of the real image.
- Get it verified by a coin expert.
3. 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar (Overstruck on a 1978 Nickel)
This coin is like two coins in one! A 1979 dollar was stamped over a 1978 nickel by accident.
How to Spot It:
- You’ll see parts of both the dollar and nickel designs.
- Mixed features like edges or faces from both coins.
- Professional grading makes this coin even more valuable.
4. 1971‑S Deep Cameo Proof Penny
This special coin has a shiny background and a frosted image. It’s made for collectors and looks amazing when kept in top shape.
Features to Check:
- Mirror-like shine behind frosted details.
- Sharp, clear design.
- Compare to official Deep Cameo examples.
5. 1970‑S Lincoln Cent (Small Date Variety)
This one is tricky! It’s all about the size and shape of the number “7” in the date. The small date version is rare.
How to Find It:
- Use a magnifier to study the date.
- Look for a short, higher “7.”
- Uncirculated ones are worth more.
Best Tools for Coin Hunting
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Magnifier | Helps spot small errors and details |
| Coin Album | Keeps your collection safe |
| Reference Guide | Helps compare your coins with known rarities |
| Gloves | Protect coins from fingerprints |
| PCGS/NGC Services | Get coins graded and verified by experts |
Tips for Storing Coins the Right Way
If you find a valuable coin, you need to protect it! Here’s how:
- Use acid-free holders or coin capsules.
- Store coins in a cool, dry place.
- Never clean them! Cleaning can ruin the coin’s value.
The Future of Coin Collecting
Today, collectors can get coins graded online, buy and sell through websites, and even use new tech like blockchain for tracking. It’s easier than ever to learn about and collect rare coins.
Final Thoughts
Coin collecting isn’t just a hobby—it’s a way to learn history, sharpen your detective skills, and maybe even make money. Coins from the 1970s like the 1971‑S Lincoln Cent or the 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar could be worth a fortune. All you need is some patience, a magnifying glass, and the curiosity to start checking your change. The next time you get a handful of coins, don’t just toss them in a jar—check them closely. That small penny or strange-looking dollar could be your ticket to a big payday!
FAQ’s
How can I tell if my coin has a double die error?
Use a magnifying glass and check for doubled letters or numbers, especially around the date or the word “LIBERTY.” If parts of the design look blurry or repeated, it might be a double die coin.
What should I do if I think I found a rare coin?
Don’t clean it! Handle it carefully, place it in a soft holder, and take it to a coin expert or send it to a grading service like PCGS or NGC to confirm its value.
Are these rare 1970s coins still out there in everyday change?
Yes, but it’s rare. Some of these coins could still be in circulation or in old coin jars at home. That’s why it’s worth checking your change closely.
