6 Valuable Coins from the 1970s That Could Be Worth a Lot of Money

The 1970s may be long past, but some of the coins minted during this decade are now incredibly valuable. Coin collectors are constantly on the lookout for rare and unique pieces, and a few coins from this era are worth far more than their face value.

If you’re lucky enough to find one of these gems in your collection, you could be sitting on thousands of dollars. Below, we explore six coins from the 1970s that are currently worth a significant amount of money due to their rarity, errors, or other distinguishing features.

6 Valuable Coins from the 1970s

1. 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Penny

• Value: Up to $18,400
• Why It’s Valuable: This penny is sought after due to its unique small date, which distinguishes it from other pennies minted in 1970. The “S” mint mark indicates that it was minted in San Francisco. The key identifying feature is the 7 in the date, which appears level with the other digits. Small date versions are far rarer than large date versions, driving up their value, especially in high-grade conditions.
• Collecting Tip: Check rolls of pennies from 1970 to find this rare small-date version. The cleaner the penny, with fewer blemishes, the more it’s worth​.

2. 1971 Eisenhower Dollar

• Value: $5,000 to $10,000 (depending on condition and minting errors)
• Why It’s Valuable: Eisenhower dollars were minted to honor President Dwight D. Eisenhower. While most 1971 Eisenhower dollars are not particularly valuable, those with minting errors like off-center strikes or double die errors can fetch high prices. Additionally, coins in pristine condition or proof sets are more valuable.
• Collecting Tip: Look for coins with mint errors or coins in excellent condition. Proof versions, struck with extra detail, are particularly prized.

3. 1972-D Double Die Obverse Lincoln Penny

• Value: Up to $2,000
• Why It’s Valuable: The 1972-D Double Die Obverse Lincoln Penny is famous for its minting error, where the die used to strike the coins was misaligned. This error results in a doubling effect on the date and lettering on the obverse (front) side of the coin. Coins with more pronounced doubling and in better condition are worth significantly more.
• Collecting Tip: Closely examine the date and lettering for noticeable doubling without magnification, as the more obvious the error, the more valuable the coin​.

4. 1974-S Reverse Brockage Lincoln Penny

• Value: Up to $11,400
• Why It’s Valuable: A brockage occurs when a coin is struck with the design appearing reversed on one side, creating a mirror image. This particular 1974-S penny is unique because it was struck with the reverse image of a 1973 penny. Only a few of these brockage errors exist, and they are highly prized by collectors.
• Collecting Tip: Look for pennies with irregularities in the design, especially reversed or mirror images. The more noticeable the error, the higher the potential value.

5. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter

• Value: Up to $6,000 (with errors)
• Why It’s Valuable: The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter was issued to commemorate the 200th anniversary of American independence. While millions were minted, some with minting errors—such as double dies or off-center strikes—can be quite valuable. Also, quarters minted in silver or proof sets are worth significantly more.
• Collecting Tip: Look for error coins or silver versions. Those in high-grade, mint condition fetch the highest prices​.

6. 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Over Jefferson Nickel

• Value: Up to $15,275
• Why It’s Valuable: This coin is a product of a minting error where a Susan B. Anthony dollar was mistakenly struck over a Jefferson nickel. Such overstrikes are exceedingly rare and valuable, particularly when two different coins are involved.
• Collecting Tip: Finding such a coin is incredibly rare. If you come across any overstruck coins, especially those involving two different denominations, have it authenticated immediately.

Table of Coin Values from the 1970s

Coin	Estimated Value (USD)	Key Features
1970-S Small Date Lincoln Penny	$18,400	Small date, less common than large date version
1971 Eisenhower Dollar	$5,000–$10,000	Commemorative design, valuable with minting errors
1972-D Double Die Obverse Lincoln Penny	$2,000	Minting error, double die on the obverse
1974-S Reverse Brockage Lincoln Penny	$11,400	Mirror image error, reverse brockage
1976 Bicentennial Quarter	Up to $6,000	Minting errors, silver versions from proof sets
1979 Susan B. Anthony Over Jefferson Nickel	$15,275	Rare minting error, two different coins overstruck

Conclusion

The 1970s produced a surprising number of valuable coins, many of which owe their worth to minting errors or being part of limited proof sets. Collectors who are diligent about checking for these distinguishing features may find themselves holding coins worth thousands of dollars. If you come across any of these coins, especially those with rare errors, it’s a good idea to have them professionally evaluated to confirm their value.

FAQs

References

• King Street Creamery: “6 Coins From the 1970s That Are Worth a Lot of Money”
• DalColo: “6 Coins From the 1970s That Are Worth a Lot of Money”
• LoveToKnow: Coin Collecting Information