1970-S Small Date Penny: Identifying This Scarce Variety

The 1970-S Lincoln cent comes in two distinctly different date sizes — large date and small date. The small date variety is significantly scarcer and more valuable, particularly on the higher-quality coins struck for proof and uncirculated sets. Understanding the visual differences between the two date sizes is essential for collectors searching through 1970-S pennies.

What This Means

The difference between the 1970-S large date and small date varieties results from the use of different master hubs at the Philadelphia Mint. The small date hub produced thinner, more delicate numerals with a specific characteristic: the top of the "7" is level with the tops of the other digits, and the "0" is smaller. On the large date, the "7" extends above the other digits and the "0" is larger. Both were produced in business strike and proof versions.

What to Look For

• Compare the "7" in the date — small date has the "7" level with other digits, large date has "7" higher
• The "0" is noticeably smaller on the small date variety
• Overall date numerals appear thinner and more delicate on the small date
• Compare "LIBERTY" — the small date variety has slightly different letter proportions
• On proof coins, the small date variety has a doubled die obverse variation worth even more
• Check the S mintmark for repunching on both varieties

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not having a comparison coin — the differences are relative, so having both varieties side by side helps
• Relying on photos alone without understanding the specific diagnostic points
• Confusing worn large date numerals with the naturally thinner small date numerals
• Not checking for the doubled die obverse on 1970-S small date proofs — this adds significant value
• Assuming all low-mintage 1970-S cents are the small date — the large date is more common

What Affects Value

The 1970-S small date penny in business strike form is worth $25-75 in circulated condition and $100+ in uncirculated. The 1970-S small date doubled die proof is significantly more valuable — reaching $1,000+ in top condition. Value depends on whether it is a business strike or proof, the coin's grade, and the presence of any additional varieties like the doubled die.