The 1970-S Small Date penny is one of the most collectible varieties in the Lincoln Memorial cent series. While most 1970-S pennies are common, the Small Date version is much scarcer and can be worth significantly more depending on its condition. While millions of 1970-S cents were struck, a small portion were produced with a different date style that collectors now refer to as the Small Date variety.
The Small Date variety was struck at the San Francisco Mint in 1970 and is distinguished by subtle differences in the shape and spacing of the date. Because the variety can be difficult to identify, many examples circulated for years before collectors recognized their value.
How to Identify the 1970-S Small Date Penny
The 1970-S Lincoln cent was struck in two different varieties known as the Small Date and Large Date. The Small Date variety is significantly scarcer, more valuable, and is the version most collectors search for.
The easiest way to identify the Small Date variety is by closely examining the shape and position of the numbers in the date.
One of the most noticeable differences is the position of the 7 in the date. On the Small Date variety, the top of the 7 sits level with the 1 and the 9, creating a very even alignment across the date. On the Large Date version, the 7 appears slightly lower than the other digits, making the date look slightly uneven.
Additionally, on large date varieties, the 0 tends to appear higher than the 7. On the small date variety, the 0 is level with the rest of the date, creating a straight alignment across the top of the date. This is another obvious difference between the large and small date varieties, and can help identify which variety of coin you have.
Another useful indicator is the appearance of the word LIBERTY on the obverse of the coin. On many Small Date examples, the letters in LIBERTY appear weaker or less sharply struck, while Large Date coins typically show stronger strikes.
Collectors also look at the shape of the 9 in the date. On the Small Date variety, the loop of the 9 tends to point slightly inward toward the 7, while the Large Date version has a rounder appearance.
Because the differences can be subtle, comparing your coin with clear reference images of both varieties is often the easiest way to confirm which version you have.
As you can see, the 1970-S Small Date cent, the date is level across the top, and the 9’s inner loop is pointed higher, towards the 7. Pay special attention to how the date looks less bold, yet more sharp overall.
In the large date example, it is apparent that the 7 is much lower, as well that the inner loop of the 9 points much lower than the bottom of the 7. Also note how the top of the date is not as straight as the small date, and how the numbers feel a bit more round overall.
Values and Rarity
Values for the 1970-S Small Date cent vary widely based on condition. High graded uncirculated cents can sell for $100 or more, while circulated examples can be worth as low as a $2 or less. See the chart below for a reference on rough values.
The 1970-S Small Date is considered rare due to its low mintage and decreasing population. While exact mintages for the small date variety are not known, it is estimated that out of the 690 million minted cents, around 60-70 million cents are the small date variety. This makes it valuable as there are relatively few minted for the year, and they are difficult to find in circulation.
Summary
The 1970-S Small Date penny remains one of the most recognized varieties in the Lincoln Memorial cent series. While the differences between the Small Date and Large Date versions can be subtle, collectors continue to search for this variety because of its relative scarcity and strong demand among Lincoln cent specialists.
Most circulated examples are worth far more than face value, and higher grade coins can command significantly higher prices depending on their condition. Because the identifying features are small, carefully examining the date and comparing your coin with known examples is the best way to determine whether you have the Small Date variety.
For collectors and coin hunters, the 1970-S Small Date penny is a reminder that even common looking coins can sometimes turn out to be valuable discoveries.
If you would like to learn more about valuable varieties, explore our other guides on Lincoln cents and rare pennies!
