When you think of coins, you might only see them as small pieces of metal exchanged at face value. However, for coin collectors, some coins can be worth much more than their original value. In fact, certain coins from the 1970s have become highly sought after and can fetch prices exceeding $10,000!
Many collectors are always on the lookout for rare coins that could suddenly earn them a small fortune. Among the most valuable coins are those with minting errors and the famous “proof coins.” These proof coins were not intended for circulation but somehow ended up in the hands of the public. If you have any coins from the 1970s, it’s time to check your collection! Here are five coins from that decade that could be worth a lot more than you think.
1. 1970-S Lincoln Penny (Small Date)
The 1970-S Lincoln penny is one of the most sought-after coins among collectors. This penny features the initials of the designer, Victor David Brenner, on the reverse side. The small date version is particularly rare, as only a limited number of these coins were minted. If you find one in good condition, it could be worth over $10,000!
To identify the small date version, look closely at the date on the penny. The numbers will appear smaller and closer together compared to the large date version. If you have this penny, it’s worth getting it appraised.
2. 1971 Eisenhower Dollar (Type 1)
The 1971 Eisenhower dollar is another coin that can be worth a significant amount, especially the Type 1 version. This coin features a large image of President Eisenhower on the front and an eagle on the back. The Type 1 version has a different design on the reverse side compared to the Type 2 version, which was released later.
If you have a 1971 Eisenhower dollar in uncirculated condition, it could be worth more than $10,000. Collectors are particularly interested in coins that have been well-preserved, so make sure to handle it carefully if you find one.
3. 1972 Lincoln Penny (Double Die)
The 1972 Lincoln penny is famous for its double die error, which means that the design was stamped twice during the minting process. This error creates a noticeable doubling effect on the date and inscriptions. If you come across a 1972 penny with this error, you could have a valuable coin on your hands.
The double die version of the 1972 penny can be worth thousands of dollars, especially if it is in good condition. To check for the error, look closely at the date and the word “Liberty.” If you see a doubling effect, you may have a rare find!
4. 1974 Aluminum Penny
The 1974 aluminum penny is one of the most controversial coins in U.S. history. A small number of these pennies were minted as a test to see if aluminum could be used for coin production. However, the plan was scrapped, and most of the aluminum pennies were destroyed.
Only a few of these coins are known to exist, making them extremely rare and valuable. If you happen to find a 1974 aluminum penny, it could be worth over $10,000! Keep in mind that these coins are not legal tender, so they should be treated as collectibles.
5. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter
The 1976 Bicentennial quarter was minted to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the United States. While many of these quarters were produced, certain varieties are worth more than others. The 1976-S proof quarter, for example, is highly sought after by collectors.
If you have a 1976 Bicentennial quarter in proof condition, it could be worth a significant amount. Some of these coins have sold for over $10,000 at auction, especially if they are graded well. Check your collection to see if you have this special quarter!
How to Check Your Coins
Now that you know which coins from the 1970s could be worth more than $10,000, it’s time to check your change! Here are some tips for identifying valuable coins:
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Examine the Date and Mintmark: Look closely at the date and any mintmark on the coin. The mintmark indicates where the coin was produced (e.g., “D” for Denver, “S” for San Francisco). This information is crucial for determining the coin’s rarity.
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Inspect for Errors: Check for any noticeable errors, such as doubling or missing mintmarks. These errors can significantly increase a coin’s value.
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Assess the Condition: The condition of the coin plays a vital role in its value. Coins in better condition (less wear and tear) are generally worth more. Use a magnifying glass to inspect the details.
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Research Values: Use online resources or coin price guides to research the current market value of the pennies you find. Websites like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) can provide valuable information.
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Consult a Professional: If you believe you have a valuable penny, consider consulting a professional coin dealer or appraiser. They can provide an accurate assessment and help you understand its worth.
Conclusion
Digging through your change can be more than just a fun activity; it could lead to discovering valuable coins worth much more than their face value. From the rare 1970-S Lincoln penny to the unique 1974 aluminum penny, these coins can fetch thousands of dollars among collectors.
Disclaimer – Our editorial team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and eliminate any potential misinformation. We are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity in our content.