1970-S Large Date Lincoln Penny Value: A Complete Guide
The 1970-S Large Date Lincoln Penny is worth anywhere from $0.05 in circulated condition to over $50 in high-grade mint state. While most that you find in your pocket change are only worth face value, certain specimens can be a hidden treasure for everyday collectors.
| Condition / Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Circulated (Average Wear) | $0.01 – $0.05 |
| Uncirculated (MS63) | $1.00 – $3.00 |
| Gem Uncirculated (MS65 Red) | $15.00 – $25.00 |
| Superb Gem (MS67 Red) | $75.00+ |
Identifying Your 1970-S Large Date Lincoln Penny
If you have stumbled upon a jar of old coins, identifying a 1970-S penny is the first step toward determining if you have something special. Most Americans use a free coin identifier app to quickly sort through their change. The “S” mint mark under the date tells you this coin was minted in San Francisco. While the 1970-S is famous for its rare “Small Date” variety, the “Large Date” variety is the one you will most likely encounter.
The Large Date is distinguished by the alignment of the numbers in the year. In the Large Date variety, the “7” in 1970 sits slightly lower than the “0” and the “9”. To the untrained eye, these differences might seem invisible, but with a magnifying glass or the CoinKnow app, you can easily spot the high-arching “7” that defines the common Large Date variety.
It is important to remember that millions of these coins were produced for circulation. Because they are made of 95% copper, they have a distinct weight and “ring” compared to modern zinc pennies. Even if your coin isn’t the rare variety, it still holds historical value as a piece of American numismatic history from the early 1970s.
The Market Value of 1970-S Large Date Pennies
When determining how much your coin is worth, the condition is the most significant factor. Most 1970-S Large Date pennies found in piggy banks are “circulated,” meaning they have scratches, dullness, or “toning.” These coins generally trade for their copper melt value or a few cents to a specialized collector. However, if you find one that looks like it just came from the bank—shiny, red, and without scratches—the value jumps significantly.
According to recent auction data, the 1970-S penny value for Mint State specimens can reach several hundred dollars if the grade is high enough. Most collectors look for the “RD” (Red) designation, which means the coin has retained at least 95% of its original copper luster. If your coin is brown or cleaned, the value drops to the lower end of the spectrum.
Using professional tools like CoinKnow can help you estimate the grade of your coin before you decide to spend money on professional grading services. For the everyday person, knowing whether a coin is worth $1 or $100 is the most important part of the hobby.
| Grade Designation | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|
| Brown (BN) | $0.05 – $0.50 |
| Red-Brown (RB) | $1.00 – $5.00 |
| Full Red (RD) | $10.00 – $150.00+ |
Large Date vs. Small Date: Why the Difference Matters
The primary reason why so many people search for the 1970-S penny is the existence of the Small Date variety. The Large Date is the “common” version, while the Small Date is a rare “variety” that can be worth hundreds of dollars even in average condition. To tell them apart, look at the word “LIBERTY.” On the Large Date, the word is sharp and well-defined. On the Small Date, it often appears mushy or faded.
Furthermore, look at the tops of the numbers in the date. On a Large Date, the top of the “7” is lower than the top of the “0”. On a Small Date, they are level. If you find a Small Date, you have hit the jackpot. If you have the Large Date, it is still a wonderful collectible, especially if it is in pristine condition. Many people use CoinKnow to zoom in on these tiny details to ensure they aren’t accidentally spending a rare coin at the grocery store.
Check out this detailed breakdown of the 1970 penny value and variety differences to see photos of what to look for. Identifying the correct variety is the difference between a nickel and a nice dinner out.
Factors That Influence 1970-S Penny Pricing
Several factors beyond just the date and mint mark determine the final price of a 1970-S Large Date Lincoln Penny. The most critical is “Eye Appeal.” Collectors love coins that have a beautiful, consistent color. Copper reacts to the environment, so a coin that has been sitting in a damp basement might turn a dark, dull brown, which reduces its value.
Surface marks are another big factor. Even “uncirculated” coins can have “bag marks”—tiny nicks caused by coins hitting each other at the mint. A 1970-S Large Date with zero visible marks under 10x magnification is extremely rare and highly sought after.
Lastly, the strike quality matters. Because the San Francisco mint used dies multiple times, some pennies have “mushy” details where Lincoln’s hair or the wheat stalks (on earlier versions) look flattened. A “sharp strike” where every detail of Lincoln’s beard is visible will always command a higher premium in the coin market.
| Luster Level | Appel Ranking | Collector Interest |
|---|---|---|
| Brilliant Red | High | Extreme |
| Mottled/Spotted | Low | Low |
| Toned/Purple | Medium | Niche |
Error Coins and Varieties to Look For
While searching for the Large Date variety, keep an eye out for mint errors. Errors are mistakes made during the manufacturing process, and they can make a common 1970-S Large Date penny worth a lot of money. Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) coins are particularly famous. This happens when the die used to stamp the coin has a doubled image, resulting in doubling on the words “IN GOD WE TRUST” or “LIBERTY.”
Other common errors include “clippings,” where the coin is missing a crescent-shaped piece, or “off-center” strikes where the design is pushed to one side. A 1970-S penny with a significant error can sell for $50 to $500 depending on the severity. It is always worth taking a second look at any coin that looks “weird” or “wrong” before tossing it back into the jar.
How to Start Your Penny Collection
If finding a 1970-S Large Date has piqued your interest, starting a penny collection is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to get into numismatics. You don’t need expensive equipment—just a clear magnifying glass, some cardboard coin holders, and a curious mind.
Start by checking your pocket change every day. Look for the “S” mint marks and the older “Wheatie” pennies (dated 1958 and earlier). Over time, you’ll start to recognize the subtle differences in luster and strike that make certain coins more valuable than others. It’s a fun hobby that can occasionally pay off with a rare find worth hundreds of dollars!
FAQ
Q: Is a 1970-S penny rare?
A: The Large Date variety is not rare, as hundreds of millions were minted. However, high-grade specimens in “Red” condition and those with the “Small Date” variety are much rarer and more valuable.
Q: Where can I sell my 1970-S Large Date Penny?
A: For common circulated coins, a local coin shop is your best bet. For high-value or graded coins, online auction sites like eBay or Heritage Auctions are better for reaching serious collectors.
Q: How can I tell for sure if I have a Large or Small Date?
A: The easiest way is to look at the “7” in 1970. On the Large Date, the horizontal bar of the 7 is lower than the 0. On the Small Date, the 7 is level with the top of the 0.
Q: What is the “S” on my penny?
A: The “S” stands for the San Francisco Mint. In 1970, pennies were also minted in Philadelphia (no mint mark) and Denver (D mint mark). The San Francisco coins generally have lower mintages and are more interesting to collectors.
