Did you know a simple 1970-S penny could make you a millionaire? 🤯 In 2023, one of these rare coins sold for a whopping $5 million at auction. With fewer than 10 confirmed in existence, you might just have one sitting in your coin jar! 🪙✨
⚠️ Why Is the 1970-S Penny So Valuable?
The secret lies in a minting error made at the San Francisco Mint. Only a few coins left the press with this mistake, making them ultra-rare.
Here’s what sets the 1970-S “Small Date” error penny apart:
👉 The “7” in 1970 sits slightly lower than the “1” and “9.”
👉 The word “LIBERTY” appears bolder and sharper than normal.
👉 Only pennies with an “S” mint mark (San Francisco) can be this error coin.
🔍 How to Check Your 1970 Pennies (Step by Step)
If you have old pennies lying around, here’s how to spot the treasure:
1️⃣ Look at the Date
- ✅ Small Date Error → The “7” is lower than the “1” and “9.”
- ❌ Normal Date → All numbers are evenly aligned.
2️⃣ Check the Word “LIBERTY”
- ✅ Rare Error → Letters look bold and sharp.
- ❌ Normal Coin → Letters may appear faint.
3️⃣ Find the Mint Mark
- ✅ Must have an “S” under the date.
- ❌ No “S”? Not the rare one.
💡 Tip: Use a magnifying glass for best results! 🔎
💵 1970-S Penny Value Chart (2024 Prices)
| Condition | Normal 1970-S Penny | Rare Small Date Error |
|---|---|---|
| Worn (Circulated) | $0.01 | $25,000+ |
| Mint State | $1 – $5 | $1M – $5M+ |
👉 As you can see, the difference is life-changing! 🚀
🛒 Where to Buy or Sell Rare Pennies
If you think you’ve found one, be careful where you buy or sell. Scams are common!
✔️ For Buyers
- Trusted dealers: PCGS CoinFacts, Heritage Auctions
- Always buy coins certified by PCGS or NGC
✔️ For Sellers
- Step 1: Get your coin graded ✅ (PCGS/NGC required)
- Step 2: Auction it via Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers
- Step 3: For high-value coins, consider private sales (through experts only)
⚠️ Avoid eBay or unverified buyers at all costs!
❓ What to Do If You Find One
🔥 Found a 1970-S Small Date Penny? Do this immediately:
- ❌ Don’t clean it (even fingerprints lower value).
- 📸 Take clear photos of the date & mint mark.
- 📞 Contact an expert (PCGS: 1-800-447-8848 | experts@pcgs.com).
✅ Key Takeaways
✔️ Only 5–10 exist, making it the rarest modern penny.
✔️ Always check your old 1970-S pennies—you never know!
✔️ Never sell it raw—grading is mandatory before sale.
💬 Want a free printable checklist to help you identify this rare penny? Comment “1970ERROR” below and I’ll send it to you! 🚀
Leave a Reply