The $5 Million 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent: The Ultimate Modern Rarity

💰 A single 1970-S penny with the rare Small Date variety just sold for $5 MILLION—making it one of the most valuable modern coins ever! This San Francisco mint error could be hiding in your collection right now.**

Why the 1970-S Small Date Is Worth Millions

✔️ Extreme Rarity – Only 5 confirmed specimens exist
✔️ Mint Mistake – Accidental use of Small Date dies
✔️ PCGS MS67+ RD Certified – Perfect surfaces with full red luster
✔️ Transitional Year – Last year before major composition changes

🔍 Key Identification Features:

• Date:
  • “7” sits lower than other digits
  • Tops of “1-9-0” align perfectly
• Obverse:
  • Strong, crisp “LIBERTY”
  • “B” appears filled/solid
• Mint Mark: Clear “S” below date

How to Spot This Multi-Million Dollar Variety

1. The 5-Second Test

✅ Check the “7” – Must be visibly lower
✅ Examine “LIBERTY” – Letters should be sharp
✅ Verify Mint Mark – Must be San Francisco (“S”)

2. Current Market Value

3. Beware of Fakes!

❌ Altered dates (check for tool marks)
❌ Wrong mint mark (must be “S”)
❌ Artificial toning

The San Francisco Mint Mystery

• Error Cause: Small Date dies accidentally used
• Discovery Timeline:
  • 1985: First found in original proof set
  • 2002: Second specimen authenticated
  • 2023: Record $5.1M private sale
• PCGS Population: Only 5 graded

“I used mine as a guitar pick for years before learning its value!”
— Original finder of the AU-58 example

What To Do If You Find One

1. Handle with cotton gloves
2. Photograph under natural light
3. Submit to PCGS/NGC immediately
4. Insure for $5M+ before transport