Coin collecting, or numismatics, often reveals hidden treasures in everyday currency. One such remarkable find is the 1970-S Quarter error, which astonished collectors when it sold for $35,000.
This article explores the fascinating story behind this coin and highlights seven other surprising coin errors that have captivated the numismatic world.
The 1970-S Quarter Error: A $35,000 Discovery
In 2016, a unique 1970-S Proof Washington Quarter surfaced, capturing the attention of collectors and enthusiasts alike.
This particular coin was mistakenly struck over a 1941 Canadian quarter, leading to discernible remnants of the original design beneath the U.S. imagery.
Notably, traces of the “1941” date are visible above the word “DOLLAR” on the reverse side. This minting error significantly elevated the coin’s value, culminating in its sale for $35,000 on eBay.
Identifying the 1970-S Quarter Error
To determine if you possess this rare coin, consider the following steps:
- Inspect the Mint Mark: Ensure the quarter bears the “S” mint mark, indicating it was produced at the San Francisco Mint.
- Examine for Underlying Impressions: Using magnification, look for remnants of the 1941 Canadian quarter design, particularly the “1941” date above “DOLLAR” on the reverse.
- Seek Professional Evaluation: Given the coin’s rarity and the potential for counterfeits, consult a reputable coin grading service for authentication.
Seven More Coin Surprises to Watch For
- 2004-D Wisconsin Quarter with Extra Leaf An error during minting resulted in some Wisconsin state quarters featuring an additional leaf on the corn stalk. Depending on the leaf’s position (high or low), these coins have fetched up to $6,000 at auction.
- 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent During World War II, pennies were primarily struck on steel planchets to conserve copper. However, a few bronze planchets were mistakenly used, creating rare 1943 bronze cents. One such coin sold for over $800,000, making it one of the most valuable mint errors.
- 2000 Sacagawea Dollar/Washington Quarter Mule A mule error occurs when a coin is struck with mismatched dies. In this case, a Sacagawea dollar was struck with a Washington quarter obverse. Approximately 18 of these errors are known, with one selling for $155,250 in 2012.
- 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent This penny exhibits a prominent doubling of the obverse inscriptions and date, resulting from a misaligned die. These coins are highly sought after, with values reaching $1,000 to $15,000, depending on condition.
- 1982 No Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime Dimes minted in Philadelphia typically lack a mint mark. However, in 1982, some dimes intended for collectors were mistakenly struck without the “P” mint mark. These error coins can be worth $50 to $300, based on their condition.
- 2005 “Speared Bison” Jefferson Nickel This coin features a die gouge that appears as a spear piercing the bison on the reverse side. Collectors value this unique error at $1,200 or more in high-grade conditions.
- 1999 Wide “AM” Lincoln Cent Certain 1999 pennies exhibit a wider spacing between the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” on the reverse. These coins can command prices up to $500, depending on their state of preservation.
| Coin | Error Description | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1970-S Quarter | Struck over 1941 Canadian quarter | Up to $35,000 |
| 2004-D Wisconsin Quarter | Extra leaf on corn stalk | Up to $6,000 |
| 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent | Struck on bronze planchet instead of steel | Over $800,000 |
| 2000 Sacagawea Dollar/Quarter Mule | Mismatched obverse and reverse designs | Up to $155,250 |
| 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent | Prominent doubling of obverse inscriptions | $1,000 – $15,000 |
| 1982 No Mint Mark Roosevelt Dime | Missing “P” mint mark | $50 – $300 |
| 2005 “Speared Bison” Nickel | Die gouge resembling a spear on the bison | Around $1,200 |
| 1999 Wide “AM” Lincoln Cent | Increased spacing between “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” | Up to $500 |
Note: Values are approximate and can vary based on the coin’s condition and market demand.
The discovery of the 1970-S Quarter error underscores the potential treasures hidden in everyday pocket change.
Coin errors, whether due to striking anomalies, planchet mistakes, or die misalignments, can significantly enhance a coin’s value.
Collectors and enthusiasts are encouraged to inspect their coins carefully, as these numismatic surprises often carry substantial worth.
FAQs
How do I know if I have the rare 1970-S quarter?
Check for an “S” mint mark and visible traces of a 1941 Canadian quarter under the U.S. design.
Are coin errors like this common?
No, such errors are rare and often happen due to unusual minting mistakes, making them valuable to collectors.
Where can I get a rare coin authenticated?
Use reputable grading services like PCGS or NGC for professional authentication and valuation.