You might think your pocket change is just spare money—but if you’re sitting on certain 1970s U.S. coins, you could be holding a mini fortune. We’re talking about coins with rare mint errors, special finishes, or subtle design quirks that collectors are dying to get their hands on. Some of these little metal discs are worth over $10,000. Ready to find out if you’ve got one? Let’s break down five rare coins from the 1970s and how to spot them.
Lincoln
This coin is a big deal in the collecting world. The double die obverse error happens when the die strikes the coin twice by mistake, creating a sort of ghost image—especially on Lincoln’s face, the word “LIBERTY,” and the date.
How to spot it:
Use a magnifying glass and check for overlapping images. Compare your coin with pictures from PCGS or NGC to be sure. If it’s in mint condition (like MS-65 or higher), you’re in luck—these coins can go for over $10,000.
1974‑S Lincoln Cent
This is a fun one. Brockage errors happen when a coin gets stuck during the minting process and causes a mirror-like imprint on the next coin. The result? A coin with a reversed or distorted design—usually on one side.
What to look for:
If the coin looks weird, like a blurry mirror image on the reverse, you might be onto something. Use magnification and check collector sites for comparison. These error coins can easily break the $10,000 mark if preserved well.
1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Now this is one of the rarest minting blunders—a dollar coin struck on a nickel. You’ll see bits of both designs clashing together. It’s a wild mistake that makes for a very desirable collector’s item.
How to find it:
Look for odd overlaps of the Susan B. Anthony design with Jefferson’s profile or other nickel features. If it looks suspiciously mixed up, have it checked by a coin grading service. A confirmed overstrike like this can bring in well over $10,000.
1971‑S Deep Cameo Proof Penny
Proof coins are minted differently. They’re shinier, crisper, and made with collectors in mind. A “deep cameo” proof has a frosted design that pops against a shiny, mirror-like background.
Check this out:
Hold the coin up to the light. If Lincoln’s face is frosted but the background gleams like a mirror, you’ve got something special. In perfect shape, this coin can be a five-figure gem.
1970‑S Lincoln Cent
This one’s a subtle difference that’s easy to miss. The “7” in the date is slightly smaller and sits higher than normal. But collectors love these kinds of rare variations.
How to identify it:
Use a magnifier to inspect the date closely. Compare it to a standard 1970‑S cent. If the “7” looks smaller and higher, you might be holding a rare piece. In great condition, it’s another $10,000+ candidate.
Table
| Coin Type | Unique Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1971‑S Lincoln Cent | Double Die Obverse | Over $10,000 |
| 1974‑S Lincoln Cent | Brockage Error | Over $10,000 |
| 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar | Struck over 1978 Nickel | Over $10,000 |
| 1971‑S Deep Cameo Proof Penny | Proof Finish | Over $10,000 |
| 1970‑S Lincoln Cent | Small Date Variation | Over $10,000 |
Storage
If you find a rare coin, don’t just toss it in a drawer. Take care of it! Store it in a coin holder or airtight case. Never clean your coins—it can ruin their value. And always handle them by the edges or wear gloves to avoid fingerprints or oils.
Trends
Coin collecting isn’t just for old-school enthusiasts anymore. With online auctions and digital grading services, it’s easier than ever to sell or authenticate your finds. Some collectors are even turning to blockchain to verify coin ownership—yep, crypto meets coins!
If you’re just getting started, grab a magnifying glass, a coin guide, and maybe even join an online coin forum. There’s a whole world of treasure in your change jar—you just need to know where to look.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just getting curious about coins, these rare 1970s gems show that big value can come in small packages. From doubled dies to deep cameos, there’s serious money in these minting mistakes. Who knew a penny could pay for a vacation? Next time you find an old coin, take a closer look—it might just be a $10,000 surprise.
FAQs
How do I spot a double die error?
Look for overlapping text or images using a magnifier.
What is a brockage error coin?
It’s a coin with a mirrored design due to minting mistakes.
Are overstrike coins valuable?
Yes, they are extremely rare and worth over $10,000.
Can I clean my old coins?
No, cleaning can reduce their value—avoid it completely.
Where can I get coins graded?
Use PCGS or NGC for trusted professional grading.
