5 Rare 1970s Coins Worth Over $10,000 – Here’s How to Spot Them

Published On: July 10, 2025

1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar (Overstrike Error)

If you’ve ever wondered whether that old penny in your drawer might be worth more than a trip to the vending machine, you’re in the right place. This guide walks you through five rare coins from the 1970s that could each be worth over $10,000. We’ll break down what makes them special, how to spot them, and what to do if you think you’ve found one. Whether you’re a beginner or a collector, these insights could lead you to a hidden gem.

Coins from the 1970s might look ordinary, but some are worth a fortune due to mint errors and design variations. In numismatics, factors like condition, rarity, and error types drive value. This article focuses on five U.S. coins that are now considered collector’s goldmines.

1971‑S Lincoln Cent (Double Die Obverse)

This cent is famous for its double die obverse error. That means the coin was struck twice by the die in slightly different positions, causing a shadowed or doubled effect, especially visible on the word “LIBERTY,” the date, and Lincoln’s features.

How to spot it:

Use a magnifying glass to check for doubled lettering or facial details
Compare your coin to reference images from PCGS or NGC
Look for coins in uncirculated or near-mint condition (MS-65+ preferred)

Value: In pristine condition, this coin can be worth over $10,000 due to its scarcity and visual appeal.

1974‑S Lincoln Cent (Brockage Error)

A brockage error occurs when a previously struck coin gets stuck to the die and imprints its mirror image onto the next blank. This results in one side of the coin appearing “normal,” while the other side may show reversed or distorted elements.

Identification tips:

Look for mirrored or distorted designs, especially on the reverse
Use a loupe or microscope to check for detail alignment issues
Cross-check with trusted numismatic databases

Value: These unusual errors can fetch $10,000 or more, depending on condition and clarity of the brockage.

1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar (Overstrike Error)

This one is truly wild: a Susan B. Anthony dollar struck over a 1978 Jefferson nickel. The result? A coin that shows traces of both designs—overlapping images, odd edges, and unusual text placement.

How to identify:

Look closely for elements from both coins, like part of Jefferson’s face or the word “Liberty”
Compare with authenticated examples online
Have it examined by a professional if you’re unsure

Value: Due to extreme rarity, this coin can sell for well over $10,000 to the right buyer or at auction.

1971‑S Deep Cameo Proof Penny

Proof coins are made with special dies and polished blanks, resulting in sharp details and mirror-like surfaces. The deep cameo variety has a frosted image that strongly contrasts with the shiny background.

What to check:

Look for a mirror-like finish with frosted design elements
Check Lincoln’s face and lettering for crisp edges
Use side lighting to inspect surface contrast

Value: If it’s in flawless condition and graded highly, it can command a value far beyond $10,000.

1970‑S Lincoln Cent (Small Date Variation)

This is a classic example where a tiny difference makes a huge impact. The small date version has the number 7 in the date sitting higher and appearing thinner than in the standard version.

Spotting the variation:

Compare the date spacing and size using a magnifier
The top of the “7” should be nearly level with the “9” and closer to “0”
Confirm with verified online photos or coin guides

Value: High-grade examples can easily exceed $10,000, especially if uncirculated.

Why These Coins Are So Valuable

The 1970s were a transformative time for U.S. coin production. As the U.S. Mint introduced new designs and updated machinery, minor mistakes occasionally slipped through—mistakes that collectors now pay thousands to own. From mint errors to limited variations, these anomalies are now seen as treasures.