The 1970s produced several Jefferson Nickels with notable errors, making them highly sought after by collectors. Identifying these errors can lead to significant financial rewards. Below are the top nine 1970s nickels with errors that are worth big money:
1. 1970-D Full Steps Nickel
The 1970-D nickel struck in Denver is renowned for its “Full Steps” error. This occurs when all five steps on the Monticello building’s front are clearly visible.
- Distinguishing Features: Clear visibility of all five steps on Monticello.
- Approximate Value: Up to $5,500 in higher grades.
2. 1970-S Full Steps Nickel
Produced in San Francisco, the 1970-S nickel with Full Steps is another valuable error.
- Distinguishing Features: Sharp detail of all five steps on Monticello.
- Approximate Value: Up to $3,250 in higher grades.
3. 1970-S Nickel with Obverse Die Breaks
Some 1970-S nickels exhibit die breaks on the obverse, leading to raised areas or “cuds.”
- Distinguishing Features: Raised, bulging areas on the obverse due to die breaks.
- Approximate Value: Varies based on severity and location of the break.
4. 1971-S No Mint Mark Proof Nickel
An error occurred in 1971 where certain proof nickels were struck without the “S” mint mark.
- Distinguishing Features: Lack of the “S” mint mark on a proof coin.
- Approximate Value: Up to $8,100 for Deep Cameo varieties.
5. 1972 Nickel with Obverse Die Breaks
Some 1972 nickels display die breaks on the obverse, resulting in raised areas.
- Distinguishing Features: Obverse with raised, bulging areas due to die breaks.
- Approximate Value: Depends on the extent and location of the die break.
6. 1973 Nickel with Reverse Die Breaks
Reverse die breaks are present on certain 1973 nickels, causing raised areas or “cuds.”
- Distinguishing Features: Raised, bulging sections on the reverse from die breaks.
- Approximate Value: Varies with the severity and placement of the break.
7. 1974-S Reverse Brockage of 1973-S Penny
A rare error where a 1974-S penny was struck with a 1973-S penny’s reverse design, resulting in a unique overstrike.
- Distinguishing Features: Obverse displays the standard penny design; reverse shows a backward 1973 penny design.
- Approximate Value: Up to $11,400 for high-grade specimens.
8. 1975 Nickel with Misaligned Die
Misalignment during striking can cause portions of the design to be off-center.
- Distinguishing Features: Design elements shifted away from the center.
- Approximate Value: Increased value depending on the degree of misalignment.
9. 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Over 1978 Jefferson Nickel
A significant minting error where a Susan B. Anthony dollar was stamped over a Jefferson nickel, resulting in a unique overstrike.
- Distinguishing Features: Susan B. Anthony’s image over Monticello.
- Approximate Value: Up to $15,275 for high-grade examples.
Valuable 1970s Nickel Errors
| Error Type | Distinguishing Features | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1970-D Full Steps Nickel | Clear visibility of all five steps on Monticello. | Up to $5,500 |
| 1970-S Full Steps Nickel | Sharp detail of all five steps on Monticello. | Up to $3,250 |
| 1970-S Nickel with Obverse Die Breaks | Raised, bulging areas on the obverse due to die breaks. | Varies |
| 1971-S No Mint Mark Proof Nickel | Absence of the “S” mint mark on a proof coin. | Up to $8,100 |
| 1972 Nickel with Obverse Die Breaks | Obverse with raised areas from die breaks. | Varies |
| 1973 Nickel with Reverse Die Breaks | Reverse with raised sections due to die breaks. | Varies |
| 1974-S Reverse Brockage of 1973-S Penny | Obverse with standard penny design; reverse shows backward 1973 penny. | Up to $11,400 |
| 1975 Nickel with Misaligned Die | Off-center design elements from misalignment. | Varies |
| 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Over 1978 Jefferson Nickel | Susan B. Anthony’s image over Monticello. | Up to $15,275 |
FAQs
Q1: How can I identify a 1970s nickel with errors?
A1: Examine your nickels closely for anomalies such as missing mint marks, misalignments, or die breaks. Consulting with a numismatic expert can also help with accurate identification.
Q2: Are all 1970s nickels valuable?
A2: Not all 1970s nickels are valuable. Only those with notable errors, such as full steps or die breaks, hold significant value. Regular circulated nickels without errors are generally worth face value.
Q3: How do I determine the value of a 1970s nickel with an error?
A3: The value of a 1970s nickel with an error is primarily determined by its condition, rarity, and the severity of the error. Consulting a professional numismatist or using online resources to compare auction results can help you estimate its value.
Q4: How can I sell my 1970s nickel with an error?
A4: You can sell your valuable 1970s nickels through coin dealers, online auctions, or at coin shows. For maximum value, consider getting the coin authenticated and graded by a reputable service.
Q5: What are “Full Steps” on a nickel, and why do they increase value?
A5: “Full Steps” refers to the clear and detailed depiction of all five steps on the Monticello building’s front. Coins with Full Steps are highly prized by collectors due to the extra detail and rarity, which significantly increases their value.
Conclusion
The 1970s produced several error-filled Jefferson Nickels, each with its own unique characteristics that make it a prized collectible. Whether it’s a 1970-D Full Steps Nickel or a 1974-S Reverse Brockage, these rare coins can be worth a small fortune.
Understanding the error types, how to identify them, and what makes them valuable is key to discovering these hidden treasures in your collection.
