The 1970s produced several U.S. coins that, due to minting errors or unique features, have become highly sought after by collectors.
These rare coins can fetch significant sums in the numismatic market. Below is a list of six such coins, their distinctive characteristics, and their approximate values.
1. 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent with Doubled Die Obverse
The 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent is notable for its scarce “Small Date” variety, which becomes even more valuable when it exhibits a doubled die obverse—a minting error where the design appears doubled.
- Unique Feature: Small Date variety with doubled die on the obverse
- Approximate Value: Up to $18,400
In 2005, a proof example of this coin sold for $18,400, highlighting its desirability among collectors.
2. 1975 No S Proof Dime
The 1975 No S Proof Dime is an exceptionally rare coin, missing the “S” mint mark that indicates it was struck at the San Francisco Mint.
- Unique Feature: Absence of the “S” mint mark on a proof dime
- Approximate Value: Over $500,000
One of only two known specimens sold for $506,250 in an online auction, underscoring its rarity and high value.
3. 1972 Lincoln Cent with Doubled Die Obverse
The 1972 Lincoln Cent is famous for a prominent doubled die error on the obverse, where elements like the date and inscriptions appear doubled.
- Unique Feature: Doubled die on the obverse
- Approximate Value: At least $400, depending on condition
This coin’s value varies based on its condition, with well-preserved examples fetching higher prices.
4. 1974 Aluminum Cent
In 1974, the U.S. Mint experimented with aluminum cents due to rising copper prices. While most were destroyed, a few specimens escaped into the public.
- Unique Feature: Composed of aluminum instead of the standard copper alloy
- Approximate Value: Potentially up to $2 million
A 1974-D aluminum cent was discovered in 2014 and was estimated to be worth between $250,000 and $2 million.
5. 1972 Eisenhower Dollar – Type 2 Reverse
The 1972 Eisenhower Dollar has three distinct reverse types, with Type 2 being the rarest. This variety features a different depiction of Earth above the eagle on the reverse side.
- Unique Feature: Distinct reverse design (Type 2)
- Approximate Value: Up to $1,000 in high grades
Collectors value this coin for its unique design and scarcity.
6. 1971-S Proof Jefferson Nickel with No S Mint Mark
Some 1971-S Proof Jefferson Nickels were mistakenly struck without the “S” mint mark, making them rare finds.
- Unique Feature: Missing “S” mint mark on a proof coin
- Approximate Value: Varies; can reach several thousand dollars
The absence of the mint mark on a proof coin significantly increases its value among collectors.
| Coin | Unique Feature | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent | Small Date with Doubled Die Obverse | Up to $18,400 |
| 1975 No S Proof Dime | Missing “S” Mint Mark | Over $500,000 |
| 1972 Lincoln Cent | Doubled Die Obverse | At least $400 |
| 1974 Aluminum Cent | Composed of Aluminum | Up to $2 million |
| 1972 Eisenhower Dollar – Type 2 Reverse | Distinct Reverse Design | Up to $1,000 |
| 1971-S Proof Jefferson Nickel | Missing “S” Mint Mark | Several thousand dollars |
Note: Values are approximate and subject to change based on market demand and coin condition.
Conclusion
Collecting coins from the 1970s can be a rewarding endeavor, both intellectually and financially. While many coins from this era are common, the rare variants listed above have the potential to yield significant returns.
If you come across any of these coins, it’s advisable to have them authenticated and appraised by a professional to determine their true value.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How can I identify a 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent?
The 1970-S Small Date variety features a “9” in the date that is pointed and curves upward slightly. Additionally, the word “LIBERTY” appears less sharply struck compared to the Large Date variety.
2. Why is the 1975 No S Proof Dime so valuable?
The 1975 No S Proof Dime is valuable due to its extreme rarity; only two specimens are known to exist, both missing the “S” mint mark, which was an error during production.