Have you ever thought that a simple penny in your pocket could be worth thousands of dollars? Sounds unbelievable, right? But it’s true. The 1970-S Small Date Lincoln penny is one of those rare coins that collectors go crazy for, and some of them have even sold for as much as thirty-five thousand dollars. Let’s dive into why this little coin is so special and how it became such a big deal.
A Quick Look At The 1970-S Penny
The 1970-S Lincoln penny was minted in San Francisco. Most pennies from that year look normal, but a few were struck with a different date style. This difference is what makes the coin valuable. There are two types of pennies from 1970-S — the “Large Date” and the “Small Date.” At first glance, they may look the same, but if you look closely, you’ll see the difference.
How To Spot The Small Date Penny
So, how do you know if your penny is the rare one? The easiest way is to check the “7” in the year. On the Small Date version, the top of the “7” looks level with the “0” and “1.” On the Large Date version, the “7” sticks up higher. Another clue is the word “LIBERTY.” On the Small Date penny, the word looks a little weaker or blurry compared to the Large Date. If you have one of these, you may be holding a treasure.
Why Is It Worth So Much?
The value comes from rarity and demand. Not many Small Date pennies were made, and collectors love owning rare pieces of history. Think of it like baseball cards or limited-edition sneakers — the rarer it is, the higher the price. Some collectors are even willing to pay thousands just to add this coin to their collection.
Condition Matters A Lot
It’s not just about having the coin. The condition, or “grade,” also plays a huge role in the price. A penny that looks shiny and new, almost like it just came from the mint, can sell for much more than one that looks worn and dirty. That’s why professional coin graders often check these pennies to decide their exact value.
Can You Still Find One?
Yes, it’s possible, but it’s like finding a needle in a haystack. Some people have discovered these pennies in old jars, boxes, or even pocket change. Most of them are already in collections, but there’s always a small chance you could come across one. That’s why coin lovers keep checking their change.
Should You Keep Or Sell It?
If you ever find a 1970-S Small Date penny, don’t rush to spend it. First, get it checked by a coin expert or grading service. Once you know it’s real and learn its grade, you can decide if you want to sell it or keep it. Some people sell it right away for thousands, while others keep it as a long-term investment.
Conclusion
The 1970-S Small Date Lincoln penny proves that even the smallest things can hold big value. What looks like just another penny could actually be worth the price of a new car. So, the next time you go through your change, take a closer look. Who knows? You might just stumble upon a little piece of treasure.