Have you ever considered that the coins in your old wallet, safe, or piggy bank could change your fortune? We often discard old things as trash, but they can actually prove to be our priceless treasures. Especially old coins, which are not just pieces of metal but an important part of history and culture.
Today we’ll talk about seven rare American coins from the 1970s, whose value has reached thousands of dollars in the market. Imagine, if you find even one of these coins, it could be worth up to $15,000, or approximately 1.2 million rupees!
1970 Lincoln Penny (Small Date)
This penny from 1970 is very special. Two variants of this coin were issued: “Small Date” and “Large Date.” The Small Date version is extremely rare and in high demand among collectors.
- Feature: The 1970-S Small Date penny has a slightly different engraved date.
- Price: If the coin is in good condition (Mint State), it can fetch between $3,000 and $15,000.
- Why it’s in demand: Minting errors and limited numbers are the primary reasons.
1970-S Lincoln Penny Doubled Die Obverse
This coin is another type of penny, but it has a “Doubled Die Error.” This means that when the date and letters (e.g., LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST) were engraved, they appeared to be doubled.
- Feature: The doubling of the letters and date is clearly visible on the obverse.
- Price: Coins like this can fetch between $1,000 and $10,000.
- Interesting fact: Even today, collectors monitor auctions to find them.
1972 Lincoln Penny Doubled Die Obverse
Although this coin is dated 1972, it deserves a mention on this list of 70s coins. It also suffered a “Doubled Die Error.”
- Feature: The letters “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” appear bold and double-embossed.
- Value: Such coins can fetch anywhere from $500 to $9,000.
- Investment Perspective: This coin will remain a long-term attraction among collectors.
1975 No S Proof Dime
The 1975 “No S Proof Dime” is considered extremely rare in the world of American coins. Proof Dimes are typically struck from the San Francisco Mint and bear the “S” mark. However, the “S” is missing on this particular coin.
- Feature: The absence of the “S” mark is the most striking feature of this coin.
- Price: It has been recorded at auction for up to $350,000, but in good condition, it easily sells for $10,000 to $20,000.
- Why Special: This error was so rare that only a few coins were minted.
1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Error Coin)
1976 was the 200th anniversary of America’s independence. Special “Bicentennial Quarters” were minted for this occasion. However, some of these quarters had minting errors.
- Features: Coins with the wrong design, double strikes, or no mint mark.
- Price: Their value can range from $1,000 to $15,000.
- Patriotism and Collectibility: Bicentennial coins are considered treasures of American history, so they are always in demand.
1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar (Wide Rim)
Even though this coin dates from the last year of the 1970s, it holds immense significance. The Susan B. Anthony Dollar came in two versions: “Wide Rim” and “Narrow Rim.” The Wide Rim is extremely rare.
- Feature: The Wide Rim coin has a narrower distance between the date and the edges, making it unique.
- Price: $1,000 to $6,000 in good collector quality.
- Why it’s special: This was the first dollar to feature a woman’s image.
1970 Kennedy Half Dollar (No FG Error)
Kennedy Half Dollar coins are very popular. However, a 1970 version was struck that was missing the “FG” initials (designer Frank Gasparro’s initials) from the design on the reverse.
- Specialty: The coin lacks the letters FG near the eagle’s claws.
- Price: This rare coin can sell for $500 to $5,000.
- Investment Advantage: Kennedy coins are always in high collector demand.
Why are these coins so valuable?
Many people wonder why old coins sell so expensively. The reasons are:
- Rarity – The fewer available, the higher the value.
- Minting Errors – Coins struck by mistake are always in high demand.
- Historical Value – Coins associated with an event or person are always special.
- Collector’s Demand – Collectors are willing to bid high to acquire them.
How do you find such coins?
Check your old piggy banks and shelves.
- Look for old coins your grandparents kept.
- Before throwing away any 1970s US coin, Google its details.
- Check the price of similar coins on online auction websites (e.g., eBay, Heritage Auctions).
Investment and Precautions
If you find such a coin, don’t immediately sell it to a local dealer.
- Have it inspected by a certified auction house.
- Get the coin graded by a professional agency.
- When selling online, avoid fraud and use only a reliable platform.
Conclusion
The 1970s were a significant period for the world of US coins. Many coins minted during this period are today more valuable than gold to collectors. If you own one of these coins, it’s not just a piece of metal, but a treasure that could change your fortune.
FAQs
1. Which 1970s coins are the most valuable?
A. Some of the most valuable coins from the 1970s include the 1970-S Lincoln Penny (Small Date), 1970-S Doubled Die Penny, 1972 Doubled Die Penny, 1975 No S Proof Dime, 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (error coins), 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar (Wide Rim), and the 1970 Kennedy Half Dollar (No FG Error).
2. How can I tell if my coin is rare or valuable?
A. Look for unique features like minting errors, double dies, missing mint marks, unusual designs, or limited production runs. Consulting a certified coin guide or professional grading service can help.
3. Can these 1970s coins really be worth $15,000?
A. Yes, in rare cases and depending on the coin’s condition, certain 1970s coins can reach values up to $15,000 in the collector’s market. Errors and pristine conditions increase the value significantly.