ou might have a life-changing coin in your pocket right now! The rare 1970-S Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) penny has sold for over $650,000 at auction. Here’s how to identify this modern numismatic treasure.
The $650,000 Penny: What Makes It Special?
✔️ Extreme doubling visible to the naked eye
✔️ San Francisco mint mark (“S”) below the date
✔️ Large Date variety (key identifier)
✔️ Only 5 confirmed specimens in top condition
✔️ Most valuable modern penny error
How to Spot This Rare 1970-S DDO

1. Check the Mint Mark & Date
- Must be 1970-S (San Francisco)
- Large Date variety:
- Top of “7” level with “0”
- “9” has less defined loop
2. Look for Dramatic Doubling On:
- “IN GOD WE TRUST” (appears as “GODWE TRUS”)
- “LIBERTY” (clear overlapping letters)
- Date “1970” (distinct shadow effect)
3. Verify the Condition
- MS-65 or higher for maximum value
- Original red color preferred
- No cleaning or damage
Grading & Value Breakdown
Grade | Value Range |
---|---|
AU-58 | $20,000-$50,000 |
MS-63 | $100,000-$200,000 |
MS-65+ | $300,000-$650,000+ |
Real Auction Results
💰 $650,000 – 1970-S DDO MS-66 Red (2023)
💰 $504,000 – 1970-S DDO MS-65 Red (2022)
💰 $350,000 – 1970-S DDO AU-58 (2021)
Where to Find This Rare Penny
- Original proof sets
- Old collections
- Coin dealer inventories (extremely rare)
What To Do If You Find One
- Handle carefully with cotton gloves
- Photograph under bright light
- Compare to PCGS reference images
- Submit to PCGS/NGC immediately
Beware of Fakes!
❌ “Machine doubling” (flat, shelf-like appearance)
❌ Counterfeit coins with added “S” mint marks
❌ Impaired or cleaned specimens
Free $650K Penny Evaluation
Think you might have this rarity? Our experts can help:
📸 Email 10MP+ macro photos to DDOexperts@ModernRarities.com
📞 Call 1-800-1970-PENNY for urgent consultation
*”I discovered my $500,000 penny in an inherited collection!” – Michael T., California*
[🔍 Certified by PCGS Error Specialists | 💎 Updated July 2024]
P.S. Only authenticated 1970-S DDO pennies command these prices. Your coin jar could hold this modern rarity!
Reply “1970DDO” for white-glove authentication service.
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