The 1970s was a transformative decade in American coinage, marked by changes in design, metal composition, and minting technology. While most coins from the era remain common pocket change, a few rare specimens have become incredibly valuable. Whether due to minting errors, low production numbers, or unique features, these coins are now worth thousands sometimes even more.
Here’s a closer look at six rare 1970s coins that could be worth a fortune today.
1. 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent (Proof)
What Makes It Valuable:
The 1970-S Lincoln cent comes in two varieties: Large Date and Small Date. The Small Date proof is considerably rarer and highly sought after by collectors.
Key Details:
- Mint: San Francisco (S)
- Condition: Proof
- Value: Can exceed $3,000 in pristine condition
- Identifying Feature: The “7” in the date is level with the rest of the numbers, and the word “LIBERTY” appears weakly struck.
Why It’s Rare:
Only a limited number of 1970-S Small Date proofs were minted, making them elusive in today’s coin market. If you suspect you have one, it’s wise to have it professionally graded.
2. 1972 Lincoln Cent (Double Die Obverse)
What Makes It Valuable:
This famous error coin features noticeable doubling on the date and inscriptions such as “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” on the obverse.
Key Details:
- Mint: Philadelphia (no mint mark)
- Condition: Circulated or uncirculated
- Value: Between $300 and $15,000, depending on grade
- Identifying Feature: Strong doubling easily visible to the naked eye
Why It’s Rare:
Only a few thousand of these doubled die cents were released before the error was caught. Most have been snapped up by collectors, driving up their market value.
3. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (No Mint Mark Proof Error)
What Makes It Valuable:
Issued to celebrate America’s 200th birthday, the Bicentennial quarters dated “1776–1976” are iconic. However, proof versions without a mint mark, mistakenly struck in Philadelphia, are extremely rare.
Key Details:
- Mint: Originally San Francisco (S), but no mint mark versions found
- Condition: Proof
- Value: Up to $1,000 or more
- Identifying Feature: No mint mark, mirror-like finish typical of proof coins
Why It’s Rare:
Proof coins were only meant to be struck at the San Francisco Mint and should have an “S” mint mark. Those lacking it likely slipped through the system by accident.
4. 1975 No S Roosevelt Dime (Proof)
What Makes It Valuable:
This error coin is one of the rarest modern dimes. In 1975, a small number of proof dimes were struck without the “S” mint mark, which should have indicated production at the San Francisco Mint.
Key Details:
- Mint: San Francisco (missing “S” mint mark)
- Condition: Proof
- Value: Estimated $300,000 or more
- Identifying Feature: No mint mark; reflective proof surfaces
Why It’s Rare:
Only two confirmed examples of this coin exist, making it a “holy grail” of 1970s U.S. coinage. If another is discovered, it could command an even higher price.
5. 1974 Aluminum Lincoln Cent (Experimental)
What Makes It Valuable:
In the early 1970s, the U.S. Mint experimented with aluminum pennies to reduce production costs. Although the plan was scrapped, a few test pieces escaped destruction.
Key Details:
- Mint: Philadelphia
- Condition: Uncirculated
- Value: Potentially over $250,000
- Identifying Feature: Lightweight and silvery appearance
Why It’s Rare:
Most 1974 aluminum cents were destroyed. Only about a dozen are believed to exist, and the U.S. Mint considers them government property, so private ownership can be controversial.
6. 1971 Eisenhower Dollar (Friendly Eagle Variety)
What Makes It Valuable:
While the Eisenhower dollar isn’t rare in itself, the 1971 “Friendly Eagle” variety has a unique reverse design with a softer, more rounded eagle.
Key Details:
- Mint: Philadelphia
- Condition: Uncirculated
- Value: Up to $1,000+
- Identifying Feature: Softer eagle design, different feather detailing
Why It’s Rare:
It was an early die variety and was quickly replaced, making it a favorite for die-variety collectors. Its value increases significantly when found in top condition.
How to Identify and Verify Rare Coins
If you think you’ve found a valuable coin, the best step is to have it authenticated by a third-party grading service, such as:
- Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS)
- Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC)
These organizations can verify the coin’s authenticity, grade its condition, and help determine its market value.
Additionally, you can explore official resources like the United States Mint or the Smithsonian Institution’s National Numismatic Collection to learn more about historical coinage and minting processes.
Final Thoughts
Rare coins from the 1970s offer a fascinating glimpse into a decade of economic and political change. Whether you’re a casual collector or someone who stumbled upon a jar of old change, it’s worth examining your 1970s coins carefully. One of them might just be a hidden treasure.
Keep an eye out for mint errors, unique varieties, and proof coins especially those without mint marks. In the right condition, these seemingly ordinary coins can be worth a small fortune.
So next time you dig through your change drawer, don’t overlook those dull copper cents or old Eisenhower dollars. Your next lucky find could be hiding in plain sight.