Five Coins from the 1970s That Could Be Worth More Than $10,000

The 1970s may not seem like a distant era in numismatic history, but coins from this decade can sometimes carry hidden value. While most coins from the 1970s are worth only face value, a few rare errors, minting anomalies, or limited production runs have made certain coins highly sought after by collectors. Here are five coins from the 1970s that could fetch more than $10,000 in the right conditions.

1. 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent

• Why It’s Valuable: Misidentified by many, the 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent is one of the most valuable coins from this period. This variation features a noticeably smaller date on the obverse, with the “7” in “1970” almost level with the “9” and “0.”

Collectors prize this coin because of its low production numbers and the difficulty in distinguishing it from the regular Large Date version. In high grades, especially those certified as MS-65 Red or higher, the 1970-S Small Date Cent can sell for over $10,000. A pristine Proof version can also command a similar premium.

2. 1972 Lincoln Cent (Doubled Die Obverse)

• Why It’s Valuable: The 1972 Lincoln Cent with a doubled die obverse (DDO) is an iconic error coin. On this variety, you can see clear doubling on the word “LIBERTY,” the date “1972,” and the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST.”

This coin was not identified immediately upon release, so many examples circulated for years before being discovered, making mint-condition pieces exceptionally rare. A 1972 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent in MS-65 or higher can easily surpass the $10,000 mark at auction. Lower-grade examples also fetch a premium, though not as significant.

3. 1975 No-S Proof Dime

• Why It’s Valuable: One of the most famous modern coin errors, the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime Proof, was produced without the “S” mintmark that indicates it was struck at the San Francisco Mint. Only two confirmed examples exist, making this an extremely rare and valuable error coin.

Both examples of this elusive coin have sold for more than $350,000 in auctions, but even a newly discovered piece would likely command upwards of $10,000 due to its rarity and notoriety in the coin-collecting world.

4. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Doubled Die Reverse)

• Why It’s Valuable: The Bicentennial Quarter was minted to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the United States, featuring a special reverse design of a Colonial drummer. While most Bicentennial Quarters are common and worth face value, a small number were struck with a doubled die on the reverse.

This error is difficult to spot without magnification, as the doubling often appears on the drummer’s hands or the inscriptions like “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” High-grade examples of this error coin can fetch prices well over $10,000, depending on the prominence of the doubling and the coin’s condition.

5. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar (Overstruck on a Silver Planchet)

• Why It’s Valuable: By 1970, the U.S. Mint had largely transitioned away from silver coinage. However, some 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollars were accidentally struck on leftover 90% silver planchets from earlier years. These error coins are incredibly rare, with only a few confirmed examples.

The 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar struck on a silver planchet has sold for more than $10,000 at auctions. Testing the coin’s weight (silver coins weigh slightly more than their copper-nickel counterparts) is a key way to identify this valuable error.

Conclusion

While the 1970s might not seem like a prime decade for rare coins, certain coins from this era are worth far more than face value due to minting errors, anomalies, or unique characteristics. Coins like the 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent, 1972 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent, and 1975 No-S Proof Dime showcase how modern coins can become valuable collectibles. If you’re a coin enthusiast or just curious about what might be sitting in your change jar, these examples highlight the potential treasures to watch for.

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