Collectors hunting for valuable coins don’t have to look back a century. The 1970s, a decade famous for disco and leisure suits, also produced some U.S. coins now highly prized by collectors. Some of these coins have even sold for five-figure sums.
Similar to other collectible coins, the rarest and most valuable coins from the 1970s often feature minting errors or unique characteristics. Interestingly, the coins with the lowest denominations, such as pennies and nickels, tend to hold the greatest value.
Here are six coins from the 1970s that have proven to deliver impressive returns, based on auction records compiled by LoveToKnow. With strong collector interest continuing into 2025, their values could climb even further. The coin’s condition is crucial in determining its market price.
Spotting these vintage coins could earn you a significant payday.
1971-S Doubled Die Obverse Penny – $10,350
This coin error happens when the die, which stamps the design, strikes the coin multiple times. This results in a sharper image and sometimes a slightly misaligned look. According to LoveToKnow, examples in mint or near-mint condition can command high prices from collectors.
1974-S Reverse Brockage of 1973-S Penny – $11,400
A premium version of this penny sold for $11,400 at a Heritage Auctions event in 2020. Brockage coins are highly sought after because one side shows the standard design while the other displays a mirrored image. This penny’s front features the usual Lincoln portrait, while the back has a reversed 1973 design caused by a die malfunction. These rare mistakes are prized by numismatists.
1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Over 1978 Jefferson Nickel – $15,275
This unusual coin shows Susan B. Anthony’s portrait stamped over Monticello from a Jefferson nickel. Overstamp errors are uncommon, and this example is particularly special since it involves coins from two different years, making it extremely collectible.
1971-S Deep Cameo Proof Penny – $17,250
Proof coins are crafted to be perfect, never meant for circulation. LoveToKnow describes this Lincoln penny as a “superb proof” with a striking finish and flawless condition. Its beauty and rarity helped it achieve a high auction price.
1970-S Small Date Penny – $18,400
According to Dave’s Collectible Coins blog, this rare penny has a more delicate date stamp compared to the more common large-date version. The small-date coin features a lower-positioned number 7, whereas the large-date penny has the 7 aligned with the other digits.
1970-S Large Date Penny – $24,150
Contrary to the usual trend, the large-date penny from 1970-S is worth more than the small-date variety. LoveToKnow explains that this coin is a doubled die obverse proof penny in excellent condition, making it highly desirable for collectors.
FAQs
What makes 1970s pennies valuable to collectors?
Rare minting errors and unique features, especially on low-denomination coins, increase their value significantly.
Why do condition and proof status affect coin prices?
Coins in mint or proof condition are flawless, making them much more desirable and valuable to collectors.
What is a brockage error on a coin?
A brockage error occurs when one side of a coin has a normal design and the other side shows a mirrored impression.
Are overstamped coins from different years common?
No, overstamps involving coins from different years, like the 1979 Susan B. Anthony over 1978 nickel, are very rare and valuable.
