🚨 The $5 Million 1970-S Penny: How to Spot the Rare Small Date Error

💰 A single 1970-S “Small Date” Lincoln cent sold for $5,000,000 in 2023. Fewer than 10 exist—and one might be in your pocket right now.

⚠️ The Mistake That Made It Valuable

This coin is valuable only because of a minting error:

• The “7” in “1970” is lower than the other numbers.
• The word “LIBERTY” looks sharper than normal.
• Only the San Francisco Mint (“S”) made this error.

🔍 Example:
[Insert side-by-side image of Small Date vs. Normal Date here]

✅ How to Check Your 1970 Pennies (3 Steps)

1. Look at the Date

• Small Date Error: The “7” sits below the “1” and “9.”
• Normal Date: All numbers align evenly.

2. Inspect “LIBERTY”

• Error Coin: Letters are bold and crisp.
• Normal Coin: Letters may look fainter.

3. Find the Mint Mark (“S”)

• Only coins with an “S” below the date can be the rare error.

(Tip: Use a magnifying glass!)

💵 Current Value (2024 Prices)

🚨 Where to Buy or Sell (Safely)

For Buyers:

• Reputable Dealers:
  • PCGS CoinFacts
  • Heritage Auctions
• Price Alert: Never pay without third-party grading (PCGS/NGC).

For Sellers:

1. Get it Graded (PCGS/NGC authentication is a must).
2. Auction It through Heritage or Stack’s Bowers.
3. Private Sale (for high-value coins).

(Warning: Avoid eBay or unverified buyers!)

❓ “What If I Find One?”

1. Don’t Clean It! (Even fingerprints can lower value).
2. Take Clear Photos of the date and mint mark.
3. Contact an Expert immediately:
   • 📞 PCGS: 1-800-447-8848
   • 📧 Email: experts@pcgs.com

🔥 Key Takeaways

✔️ Only 5–10 exist—the rarest modern penny.
✔️ Check ALL 1970-S pennies—even in old jars!
✔️ Never sell raw—always grade it first.

Need Help? Reply “1970ERROR” below for a free checklist!