Hidden in an old coffee can, a rare 1970-S Small Date penny turned one family’s forgotten change into a life-changing $800,000 windfall at a recent auction. This tiny coin, minted in San Francisco, is part of a rare batch that collectors crave. If you have spare change tucked away in jars, drawers, or cans, it’s time to dig through it. You might have a 1970-S Small Date penny that could fetch a fortune.
What’s Special About This Penny?
The 1970-S Lincoln penny comes in two varieties: Small Date and Large Date. The Small Date version is much rarer and more valuable because fewer were made at the San Francisco Mint. The difference lies in the size and shape of the numbers in the date. On Small Date pennies, the “7” is level with the “0,” and the numbers look thinner. Large Date pennies have a bolder “7” that’s lower than the “0.” A mistake during minting made the Small Date coins scarce, driving their value sky-high.
How Much Is It Worth?
The value of a 1970-S Small Date penny depends on its condition. In average circulated condition, it can sell for $50 to $100. But in uncirculated or proof condition, prices soar. A pristine 1970-S Small Date penny sold for $800,000 in 2024, stunning collectors. Even lesser examples in proof sets have fetched $18,000 to $25,000. The family who found theirs in a coffee can had it graded by PCGS, confirming its top-notch condition, which boosted its auction price.
| Condition | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Circulated | $50 – $100 |
| Uncirculated | $500 – $5,000 |
| Proof (High Grade) | $18,000 – $800,000+ |
How to Spot One in Your Change
To find a 1970-S Small Date penny, grab a magnifying glass and check your coins. Look for pennies from 1970 with an “S” mint mark below the date, indicating San Francisco. Focus on the date itself. If the “7” is level with the “0” and the numbers look small and thin, you might have a Small Date. Compare it to a Large Date penny online or in a coin guide to be sure. Be cautious of fakes—some people alter Large Date pennies to look like Small Date ones, so professional grading is key.
Why Collectors Go Wild for It
The 1970-S Small Date penny is a collector’s dream because of its rarity and the story behind it. The U.S. Mint made fewer Small Date dies, and many were distributed in proof sets, which were meant for collectors but often ended up in circulation. Finding one in everyday change feels like winning the lottery. The family’s $800,000 sale sparked renewed interest, with collectors scouring old collections. Similar stories, like a man finding one in a bank roll and selling it for $20,000, keep the hunt alive.
What to Do If You Find One
If you think you’ve got a 1970-S Small Date penny, handle it carefully to avoid scratches or wear. Store it in a coin holder or plastic sleeve. Don’t clean it, as cleaning can ruin its value. Take it to a reputable coin dealer or send it to a grading service like PCGS or NGC for authentication. They’ll confirm if it’s a Small Date and grade its condition, which can increase its worth. If it’s a rare find, you could auction it through places like Heritage Auctions or sell it on eBay. Even if it’s not a jackpot, checking your coins is a fun way to explore coin collecting.