The 1970s was a decade marked by cultural revolutions, economic changes, and political events; however, the 1970’s were also a decade of the most collectible coins in American history. Due to minting errors, distinctive metal composition, and limited mintages, certain coins from this decade have spiked interest among collectors, and have sold for over $15,000 at auction, turning pocket change into potentially collectible coins of high value.
For numismatists, these coins are more than “just” money, they also provide an insight into the history of American coinage, as well as the technical and economic challenges facing the U.S. Mint as designs were changed in the 1970’s. Whether it was a minting error, an unusual metal composition experiment, or a proof variety, collections of coins from the 1970’s are gaining forward to the interest of collectors the world over. Let’s explore seven of the most valuable coins from the 1970s and what makes them so special.
1. 1970-S Lincoln Cent – Doubled Die Obverse
The 1970-S Lincoln Cent, one of the decade’s most famous error coins, is a rare variety of coin known as the Doubled Die Obverse, and has significantly obvious doubling on the word “LIBERTY” and the date “1970” which was produced in San Francisco.
This error occurred due to the die being stamped multiple times at slightly different angles, creating a distinct raised double image. While many collectors check their change for doubled die coins, the 1970-S variety remains elusive. Because of its rarity, well-preserved specimens have sold for over $24,000 at auction.
For collectors, this coin represents one of the most significant Lincoln Cent varieties of the 20th century.
2. 1971-S Lincoln Cent – Doubled Die Obverse
As with the 1970-S cent, the 1971-S Lincoln Cent has a prominent Doubled Die Obverse. Although it does not command the same notoriety as the 1970 variety, it shows nearly identical forms of doubling, especially on the date and lettering. Because there are fewer examples of this variety, its rarity has made it very popular amongst collectors. Some extremely nice examples have sold for over $10,000, and as the interest in rare Lincoln Cents continues to rise, so does the price of this variety.
3. 1974-S Lincoln Cent – Aluminum Composition
In the early 1970s, due to inflation in the cost of copper, the U.S. Mint tested different metal compositions, eventually producing the “aluminum” 1974-S Lincoln Cent. Almost every one of these experimental coins was recovered and destroyed, with a few believed to have slipped out into private collections.
The resulting rarity and potential legal status has made the aluminum Lincoln Cents very desirable. A well-preserved example could sell for $15,000 and some believe a perfect example would be worth six figures. With their unknown provenance and scarcity, the aluminum Lincoln Cent remains one of the most interesting collectibles from the 1970s.
4. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter – Rare Silver and Error Varieties
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter was issued to celebrate America’s 200th birthday and features a colonial drummer on the reverse. Most of these quarters were produced in a standard copper-nickel composition, but a limited number of silver proof versions were also minted.
- The most valuable versions of this coin are those with:
- Deep cameo contrast, where the design appears to float above a mirror-like background.
- Minting errors, such as off-center strikes or doubled dies.
Some of these rare Bicentennial Quarters have been known to sell for over $15,000 at auction. While most 1976 quarters remain common, it’s always worth checking for high-grade silver proofs or rare errors.
5. 1970-S Proof Half Dollar – No “S” Mint Mark
Proof coins are specially made for collectors and are struck with extra care, resulting in sharper details and a mirror-like finish. However, a rare minting error led to some 1970-S Proof Half Dollars being struck without the “S” mint mark.
This mistake likely happened when an unmarked die was used to strike proof coins. Since fewer than 50 examples are known to exist, this error has become one of the most valuable modern U.S. coins. Some specimens have sold for over $30,000, making it a highly sought-after piece in numismatic circles.
6. 1975 Roosevelt Dime – Struck on a Penny Planchet
One of the most interesting minting errors from the 1970s is the 1975 Roosevelt Dime struck on a penny planchet. This mistake occurred when a copper penny blank was mistakenly fed into the dime press, resulting in a coin with the size and composition of a penny but the design of a dime.
Because of their rarity, these coins have been known to sell for $15,000 or more, especially in excellent condition. Finding such an error in circulation would be a dream come true for any collector.
7. 1979-S Susan B. Anthony Dollar – Type II Proof
The 1979-S Susan B. Anthony Dollar was introduced to modernize U.S. currency, but it never gained widespread popularity. However, a special variety known as the Type II Proof has become a valuable collector’s item.
The key difference between the Type I and Type II versions lies in the mint mark:
- Type I: Features a blurry “S” mint mark.
- Type II: Features a clear, more defined “S” mint mark, introduced later in production.
High-grade examples of the Type II Proof with deep cameo contrast can sell for $15,000 or more when certified by professional grading services.
Final Thoughts: A Decade of Hidden Treasures
While the 1970s was an era of disco, political change, and economic change, it was also a decade that created some of the most valuable coins in American history. These coins have captured the imagination of the collecting community for decades, whether it be due to a minting error,
an experimental composition, or the fact that a mint made a quantity of coins that was so low it created a “proof” coin. For those who had luck on their side and found one of these rare coins in their old collection or pocket change, it may mean discovering a great treasure. The joy of coin collecting is not just about the monetary value of these coins but also their history, scarcity, and the stories of their production.
FAQs
1. Which 1970s coins are considered the most valuable?
The most valuable 1970s coins include rare varieties of the 1970-D Lincoln Cent, 1970-S Proof coins, 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent, and certain errors on the 1971 Eisenhower Dollar, among others.
2. How can I tell if my 1970s coin is valuable?
Look for rare features like minting errors, specific die varieties, and unusual characteristics such as doubling or unique mint marks. Consulting a reputable coin guide or a professional numismatist can help.
3. What should I look for on a 1970 Lincoln Cent?
The 1970-D Lincoln Cent with a filled “D” mint mark is one of the most sought-after coins. Also, certain proof versions of the 1970-S Cent can carry significant value if in pristine condition.
4. What are mint errors and how do they affect the value of my coins?
Mint errors occur when a coin is struck incorrectly, such as doubling, missing design elements, or incorrect metal composition. These errors can dramatically increase a coin’s value depending on their rarity and demand.
5. How much can a 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent be worth?
A well-preserved 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent can be worth up to $15,000 or more, depending on its condition and the degree of doubling visible on the obverse side.