The 1970s, an era of disco fever, bell-bottoms, and political change, also gave us some of the rarest and most valuable coins in modern American history. For collectors and investors alike, certain coins from this decade have become highly sought-after treasures, with some fetching well over $15,000 at auction.
Let’s take a closer look at seven extraordinary 1970s coins that have captured the attention of numismatists worldwide.
1970-S Lincoln Cent with Doubled Die Obverse
Kicking off our list is the 1970-S Lincoln Cent with a Doubled Die Obverse—a small coin with a big price tag.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Features a distinct doubling on “LIBERTY” and the date
- Created due to a misalignment during the die-making process
- Highly sought after by collectors
In pristine condition, this penny has sold for over $24,000, making it a dream find for any coin enthusiast.
1971-S Lincoln Cent with Doubled Die Obverse
Lightning struck twice for Lincoln Cent collectors with the 1971-S Doubled Die Obverse. While not as famous as its 1970 counterpart, it is equally valuable.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Features similar doubling on the date and lettering
- Rarer than the 1970-S variety
- Increasing demand as more collectors recognize its significance
Well-preserved specimens have been known to sell for more than $10,000, with prices expected to climb.
1974-S Lincoln Cent with Aluminum Composition
During the 1970s, the U.S. Mint experimented with alternative materials due to rising metal costs. One such experiment produced the 1974-S Lincoln Cent struck in aluminum.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Extremely rare, as most were destroyed
- Legal status remains unclear, adding to its mystique
- Considered a “holy grail” of modern coinage
Only a handful of these aluminum cents are known to exist. When they surface, they easily surpass $15,000, with some experts predicting six-figure values.
1976 Bicentennial Quarter, Silver Proof Variety
To celebrate the United States’ 200th anniversary, a special Bicentennial Quarter was minted. While most were copper-nickel clad, a limited number of silver proof versions were produced.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Struck in 40% silver for collectors
- Some feature minting errors or deep cameo contrast
- Pristine examples with unique errors can fetch high prices
The rarest silver proof varieties have been known to sell for well over $15,000 at auction.
1970-S Proof Half Dollar, No S Mint Mark
Proof coins are minted with special care for collectors, but the 1970-S Proof Half Dollar has a fascinating error—some were struck without the “S” mint mark.
Why It’s Valuable:
- A rare minting mistake, likely caused by an unmarked die
- Less than 50 examples are believed to exist
- Extremely valuable in high-grade condition
These error coins have consistently sold for over $15,000, with some exceptional examples exceeding $30,000.
1975 Roosevelt Dime on Penny Planchet
One of the most dramatic minting errors from the 1970s is the 1975 Roosevelt Dime struck on a penny planchet. This means the dime’s design was stamped on a copper cent blank.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Features a dime design on a penny-sized coin
- Unique wrong-planchet error with significant visual appeal
- Extremely rare
These error dimes have sold for $15,000 or more, depending on condition and strike quality.
1979-S Susan B. Anthony Dollar, Type II Proof
The Susan B. Anthony Dollar, introduced in 1979, was intended to change American coinage forever. While it wasn’t widely embraced, it did produce some valuable varieties, including the 1979-S Type II Proof.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Features a sharper, more defined “S” mint mark
- A late-production variety with limited availability
- High-grade examples with deep cameo contrast command premium prices
Perfect specimens have been known to sell for $15,000 or more, especially with professional certification.
The 1970s may have been an era of change, but these coins have stood the test of time, becoming numismatic legends. Whether due to minting errors, experimental materials, or stunning proof finishes, these seven high-value coins remain among the most sought-after treasures in the collecting world. If you happen to stumble upon one in your collection, you could be holding a small fortune!
FAQs
What is the most valuable 1970s coin?
The 1970-S Doubled Die Lincoln Cent has sold for over $24,000.
Why are some 1970s coins so valuable?
Minting errors, rare compositions, and low mintage increase value.
How can I tell if my 1970s coin is rare?
Check for mint marks, errors, and get it graded by a professional.
Where can I sell valuable 1970s coins?
Sell at coin auctions, dealers, or online marketplaces like eBay.
Are Bicentennial Quarters worth money?
Some silver proof and error versions can sell for over $15,000.
