At first glance, the 1970-S Lincoln penny looks like any other from the era — coppery, aged, and bearing the familiar bust of President Lincoln. But buried in the fine details of some of these coins is a tiny variation that could mean big money for collectors. This is the story of the 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Penny, a subtle mint variety that has fascinated the numismatic world and surprised many people who had one without even realizing it. The beauty of this coin lies in its nuance. The difference between a common 1970-S penny and its valuable small date counterpart is almost invisible to the untrained eye — yet this minor change in font height and spacing can mean the difference between a one-cent coin and a $3,000 payday. So how do you know if you’re holding the rare variety? Let’s take a closer look at this stealthy treasure.
Coin Name: 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Penny
The 1970-S Small Date penny is a variety of the regular-issue Lincoln cent minted in San Francisco that year. While millions of 1970-S pennies were produced, only a fraction are the “small date” version. What sets them apart is the shape and position of the numbers in the date, particularly the “7” and “0.” In the small date, the tops of the digits are nearly even, and the “9” in the date appears more closed than in the large date version. This coin becomes even more valuable when paired with another rare trait: a doubled die obverse. A small number of 1970-S Small Date pennies also show clear doubling in the inscriptions, such as “LIBERTY” or “IN GOD WE TRUST.” When both features appear on the same coin, collectors are willing to pay thousands of dollars. Even without the doubled die, the 1970-S Small Date commands attention. In mint state (MS-65 or better), these coins can fetch $500 to over $3,000, depending on eye appeal, strike quality, and market demand. A small number of proof versions also exist and are worth a significant premium.
The 1970-S Small Date penny proves that even the tiniest details in coin collecting can make a world of difference. It’s not flashy, oversized, or made of precious metal — but it represents the magic of the minting process, where small changes can turn ordinary coins into rare collectibles. If you come across a 1970-S penny, don’t just toss it in the change jar. Take a closer look at the date. If the numbers seem tightly spaced and level, you might be holding a piece of numismatic gold. In the world of coin collecting, knowledge truly is profit — and this coin is the perfect example.
FAQ’s:
1. How can I tell the difference between a Small Date and Large Date 1970-S penny?
Look at the shape of the “7” and the spacing between the numbers. In the small date, the top of the “7” is nearly level with the “1,” and the “0” appears more rounded and closer to the “9.” Online comparison images can help.
2. What is the 1970-S Small Date Doubled Die?
This is an even rarer version of the small date penny, where doubling appears in the lettering (especially “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST”). These are extremely valuable and can sell for $3,000–$7,000+ in top condition.
3. How many 1970-S Small Date pennies were made?
The exact mintage is unknown, but it is significantly smaller than the regular large date version. Estimates suggest only a small percentage of the total 1970-S penny production are small dates.
4. Are circulated 1970-S Small Date pennies worth anything?
Yes. Even in circulated condition, a confirmed small date penny can be worth $50 to $200, depending on its appearance and market demand.
5. Should I get my 1970-S penny professionally graded?
If you believe you have a small date — especially one with a doubled die — getting it authenticated and graded by PCGS or NGC is a smart move. It can significantly boost its value and make it easier to sell.
