Diagnostic Controls & Presets Modern Variety Classic
Diagnostic Forensic Readings
Forensic Attribution Diagnostic
Real-time metallurgical and die variety cross-examination verified against certified populations.
Technical Breakdown: Physics, Metallurgy & Die Diagnostics
If the top bar of the 7 is sunken below the tops of the 9 and 0, it is a common Large Date.
Due to master hub curvature differences, the letters 'L-I-B' in LIBERTY are noticeably weak and faded on Small Date cents.
Documented Benchmark Auction Records
Top-pop business strike, gleaming blazing red luster with sharp level 7 and diagnostic faint LIBERTY.
Found in an original government-sealed 1970 US Proof Set; flawless mirror fields and heavy cameo frosting.
Prominent sunken 7 dipping lower than the 9 and 0, with bold crisp LIBERTY. High mintage common coin.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the 1970-S Small Date and Large Date?
In 1970, the San Francisco Mint struck Lincoln cents using two different master obverse dies. The rare 'Small Date' variety has a 'High 7', where the top crossbar of the 7 is level with the tops of the 1, 9, and 0. On the common 'Large Date', the 7 is 'Low' or sunken, sitting visibly lower than the 9 and 0.
What is the second major diagnostic for the 1970-S Small Date?
Look at the word 'LIBERTY'! On the Small Date, the master die had shallow relief near the rim, causing 'LIBERTY' (especially the 'L-I-B') to appear faint, weak, and mushy. On the Large Date, 'LIBERTY' is boldly struck and needle-sharp.
What does the curl of the '9' tell you on a 1970-S cent?
On the Small Date, the inner curved tail of the '9' points sharply to the right toward the middle of the '7'. On the Large Date, the curl of the '9' hooks more sharply downward and points toward the bottom of the '7'.
Can you find 1970-S Small Date cents in proof sets?
Yes! The 1970-S Small Date occurs on both regular business strikes (circulation coins) and proof sets. Approximately 85% to 90% of all 1970-S proof sets contain the common Large Date, while roughly 10% to 15% contain the valuable Small Date.
How much is a 1970-S Small Date penny worth in pocket change?
In average circulated condition (Very Fine to About Uncirculated), a 1970-S Small Date is worth $15 to $35. In uncirculated condition (MS-63 to MS-65 Red), it commands $55 to $120. In high-grade Gem MS-66 to MS-67 RD, it sells for $500 to over $4,000 at auction.
Are 1970 Philadelphia or Denver cents also divided into Small Date and Large Date?
No. The Small Date variety is only recognized and collected on coins bearing the 'S' mintmark struck at the San Francisco Mint.
What is the 1970-S Small Date Doubled Die (DDO)?
The rarest and most prized 1970-S penny of all is the 1970-S Small Date Doubled Die (FS-101). It combines the rare Small Date obverse with dramatic hub doubling on 'IN GOD WE TRUST' and 'LIBERTY', selling for $3,000 to over $15,000 at auction.