Do you still have an old coffee can, piggy bank, or drawer filled with pocket change from decades ago?
If you happen to have coins from the 1970s tucked away somewhere, you might be sitting on a hidden treasure without even realizing it. Some rare coins from the 1970s have greatly increased in value due to minting mistakes, limited production, or their historical importance. While most coins from that time only hold their face value, a few rare examples have sold for thousands, and in some cases, even hundreds of thousands of dollars.
This guide will highlight five of the most valuable rare coins from the 1970s that collectors actively seek, explain what makes them special, and help you identify if you own one.
Why Are Some 1970s Coins Worth So Much?
The 1970s was an interesting era for U.S. coin production. During this decade, the U.S. Mint introduced several design changes, experimented with different metal blends, and issued special commemorative coins, like those for the Bicentennial celebration. With so many changes happening, some errors and unusual varieties were accidentally produced.
These rare errors and limited issues have become highly sought after by collectors. Coins that originally cost just a penny or a dime are now valued at thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars.
1. 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent – Doubled Die Obverse
Estimated Value: Up to $18,000
At first look, the 1970-S Small Date penny appears ordinary, but it is actually one of the most prized coins among collectors of rare 1970s coins. The coin’s value comes from a minting error known as a doubled die obverse.
This error happens when the die used to strike the coin is engraved twice, slightly offset, causing noticeable doubling on key features such as the words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” The “Small Date” version is especially valued because of the way the “7” in the year aligns perfectly with the “0” rather than sitting higher.
How to Spot It:
- Use a magnifying glass to look closely at “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” for visible doubling.
- Check the date to confirm the “7” and “0” alignment matches the Small Date variety.
2. 1972 Lincoln Cent – Doubled Die Obverse
Estimated Value: $300 to $14,000+
Another popular error coin from the 1970s is the 1972 Doubled Die Lincoln cent. It’s well-known among collectors because the doubling effect is very pronounced and can often be seen without magnification.
Among the different types of this error, Type 1 is the most valuable due to the bold doubling on the date and lettering. This coin proves that you don’t need to be an expert to spot some rare 1970s coins — sometimes your own eyes are enough.
How to Spot It:
- Look for clear doubling on “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the “1972” date.
- Beware of counterfeit coins; if unsure, get the coin professionally authenticated.
3. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter – No Mint Mark or Silver Clad Version
Estimated Value: Up to $12,000
To celebrate the United States’ 200th anniversary, the Mint released the 1976 Bicentennial quarter featuring a unique drummer boy design on the back. While millions were produced, most are only worth face value.
However, some were accidentally minted without a mint mark or on silver planchets meant for special proof sets. These rare variations, especially if in excellent condition, can be quite valuable.
How to Spot It:
- Look under the date for the absence of a mint mark.
- An “S” mint mark usually indicates a silver proof coin.
- Silver quarters feel heavier and produce a distinct ringing sound when gently tapped.
4. 1971 Eisenhower Dollar – Silver Proof Error
Estimated Value: Up to $10,500
The Eisenhower dollar, made from 1971 to 1978, is usually a copper-nickel coin. However, a few 1971-S proof coins were mistakenly struck on 40% silver planchets, making them rare and valuable.
Though these silver coins were intended only for collectors, some accidentally entered circulation, turning them into prized finds for collectors of rare 1970s coins.
How to Spot It:
- Silver Eisenhower dollars weigh about 24.6 grams compared to 22.7 grams for regular ones.
- Silver coins lack the orange copper stripe visible on the edge of standard coins.
- They also have a brighter, smoother finish.
5. 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime
Estimated Value: $350,000+
The rarest and most valuable coin from the 1970s is the 1975 No-S Roosevelt dime. Only a handful of these coins are known to exist—fewer than 12—and they were mistakenly released without the “S” mint mark that should be on proof coins from the San Francisco Mint.
Because they were meant for collectors and not for circulation, these proof dimes in mint condition are worth hundreds of thousands of dollars. One sold for over $350,000 at auction.
How to Spot It:
- No mint mark appears next to the year “1975.”
- The coin has a proof-like quality, with a mirror-like surface and frosted details.
Final Tips for Finding Rare 1970s Coins
If you’re ready to hunt through your old change, here are some quick tips:
- Use a magnifying glass or jeweler’s loupe to check for doubling or missing mint marks.
- Weigh your coins to check for silver content using a precise digital scale.
- Compare your coins to verified images from trusted coin guides or official grading services.
- Avoid cleaning your coins, as this can lower their value; instead, have a professional appraiser examine them.
- Store your coins carefully in holders, flips, or albums to protect them from damage.
FAQs
Q1: How can I tell if my coin is a doubled die?
Look closely at the lettering and date for any doubling or shadow effects, especially on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.
Q2: Are all 1970s coins with no mint mark valuable?
Not necessarily. Only certain coins with missing mint marks or other specific errors tend to be valuable.
Q3: Should I clean my old coins before selling them?
No, cleaning can reduce a coin’s value. It’s best to leave them as they are and get a professional opinion.
Q4: Where can I get my coins authenticated?
You can use reputable services like PCGS or NGC for official grading and authentication.
