6 Rare Coins from the 1970s That Could Make You Rich

The 1970s were a dynamic decade not only in culture and politics but also in numismatics. Many coins minted during this period have become highly sought after by collectors.

Whether due to rare minting errors, low production numbers, or unique characteristics, these coins can fetch a significant amount of money today.

In this article, we will explore six valuable rare coins from the 1970s that are worth a lot of money, providing details on why they are so valuable and what collectors should look for.

Here are the 6 Rare Coins that Are Worth a Lot of Money

1. 1972 Double Die Lincoln Cent

One of the most famous error coins from the 1970s is the 1972 Double Die Lincoln Cent. This coin features a noticeable doubling of the obverse (front) side, particularly in the inscriptions “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” These rare coins can fetch anywhere from $200 to over $2,500, depending on their condition.

• Value Range: $200 – $2,500+
• Key Features: Doubling on obverse side, particularly on the inscriptions
• Condition: Higher values for coins in uncirculated condition

2. 1974 Aluminum Lincoln Cent

The 1974 Aluminum Lincoln Cent is one of the rare coins from the 1970s, primarily because it was never officially released into circulation. Only a few prototypes were produced before the idea was scrapped. Today, these coins are incredibly valuable, with some fetching upwards of $200,000.

• Value Range: $150,000 – $250,000
• Key Features: Made of aluminum, prototype only
• Condition: Extremely rare and valuable in any condition

3. 1975 No S Proof Dime

Another highly valuable coin from the 1970s is the 1975 No S Proof Dime. These dimes were part of the proof sets produced in San Francisco but were mistakenly minted without the “S” mint mark. Only a few of these dimes exist, making them extremely valuable to collectors.

• Value Range: $300,000+
• Key Features: Missing “S” mint mark, proof coin
• Condition: Extremely rare, high values even in circulated condition

4. 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent

The 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent is another valuable coin from the decade. The difference between the small and large date is subtle but significant to collectors. The small date version is rarer, and in high grades, these coins can be worth over $3,000.

• Value Range: $1,500 – $3,000+
• Key Features: Small date variety, subtle differences in the “7” and “0” in the date
• Condition: Higher values in uncirculated grades

5. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Error Coin)

The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter was produced to commemorate the 200th anniversary of American independence. While most of these coins are not particularly valuable, error versions such as those with a doubled die or wrong planchet errors can be worth hundreds of dollars.

• Value Range: $100 – $500+
• Key Features: Error coin, doubled die, or wrong planchet
• Condition: Higher values for more pronounced errors

6. 1971 Eisenhower Silver Dollar

While most Eisenhower Dollars from the 1970s are relatively common, the 1971 Silver Dollar is an exception, particularly those minted in San Francisco. These rare coins are often valued for their silver content and low mintage numbers, making them worth more than face value.

• Value Range: $40 – $150+
• Key Features: 40% silver content, San Francisco mint mark
• Condition: Uncirculated and proof versions are more valuable

Summary of Valuable Coins from the 1970s

Coin	Key Features	Value Range
1972 Double Die Lincoln Cent	Doubling on obverse	$200 – $2,500+
1974 Aluminum Lincoln Cent	Made of aluminum, prototype	$150,000 – $250,000
1975 No S Proof Dime	Missing “S” mint mark, proof	$300,000+
1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent	Small date variety	$1,500 – $3,000+
1976 Bicentennial Quarter (Error)	Error coin	$100 – $500+
1971 Eisenhower Silver Dollar	40% silver content	$40 – $150+

Conclusion

Collecting rare coins from the 1970s can be a rewarding hobby, especially when you know which coins to look for. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, these six coins are worth checking out.

They not only hold historical significance but also the potential to bring in a significant return on investment.

FAQs

1. What makes the 1974 Aluminum Lincoln Cent so valuable?

• The 1974 Aluminum Lincoln Cent is valuable because it was never officially released into circulation, making it one of the rarest coins from the 1970s. Only a few prototypes exist, and they are highly sought after by collectors.

2. How can I tell if I have a 1972 Double Die Lincoln Cent?

• Look for noticeable doubling on the obverse side of the coin, particularly in the inscriptions “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” If you notice this doubling, you might have a valuable coin.

3. Why are proof coins like the 1975 No S Dime valuable?

• Proof coins are specially minted for collectors and are usually struck multiple times to achieve a high-quality finish. The 1975 No S Dime is particularly valuable because it was mistakenly minted without the “S” mint mark.

4. How much is a 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent worth?

• The value of a 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent can range from $1,500 to over $3,000, depending on its condition and grade.

5. What is the significance of the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter?

• The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter was produced to commemorate the 200th anniversary of American independence. Error versions of this coin can be particularly valuable to collectors.

References

• Heritage Auctions
• CoinWeek
• PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service)
• NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation)
• CoinTrackers