Rare 1970-S Quarters: Hidden Gems That Could Be Worth Thousands
For people who enjoy collecting coins, the 1970-S Washington Quarter has some fascinating secrets. While most quarters from 1970 are easy to find and not worth much, a few rare versions with minting mistakes have become valuable collector items.
These rare 1970-S quarter errors are not only interesting but also worth a lot of money. Let’s take a look at four rare finds from this year that could turn an ordinary coin into a big payday.
1. 1970-S Quarter Struck Over a 1941 Canadian Quarter
One of the most exciting mint errors is a 1970-S proof quarter that was struck on top of a 1941 Canadian silver quarter. This means that some parts of the Canadian coin design still show underneath the U.S. quarter’s design, creating a cool double-image effect.
This unique coin was graded PR66 by PCGS and was once listed for a jaw-dropping $40,000. It’s a one-of-a-kind item that proves how valuable mint mistakes can be.
2. 1970-S Quarter Over a George V Canadian Coin
Another amazing mistake is a 1970-S quarter printed over a Canadian George V quarter. Like the previous one, you can see parts of both the Canadian and U.S. designs mixed together, making it a real standout.
This rare coin was given a PR64 grade and is estimated to be worth around $7,800. Its unusual look and mix of designs make it highly desirable to collectors.
3. 1970-S Quarter Made on a Philippines Coin
In another strange case, a 1970-S quarter was accidentally made on a coin blank meant for a 25 Centavos coin from the Philippines. This happened because the wrong metal piece (called a planchet) was used during production.
Graded PR64, this rare coin is worth close to $4,600. Because it combines elements from both U.S. and Filipino coins, collectors around the world are interested in owning it.
4. 1970-S Doubled Die Reverse Quarter (FS-801)
This version of the 1970-S quarter features a well-known error called a “doubled die.” If you look at the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “QUARTER DOLLAR” on the back of the coin, you’ll notice they appear to be doubled.
Although this error is more common than the others listed above, it’s still valuable. A quarter in good shape with this doubled lettering can sell for $500 or more, especially if it’s well-preserved and in demand.
Summary of Rare 1970-S Quarters
| Coin Description | Error Type | Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Over Canadian 1941 Quarter | Overstrike | PR66 | $40,000 |
| Over Canadian George V Coin | Overstrike | PR64 | $7,800 |
| On Philippines 25 Centavos | Wrong Planchet | PR64 | $4,600 |
| Doubled Die Reverse (FS-801) | Doubled Die | Varies | Up to $500+ |
Why Collectors Love These Quarters
These rare 1970-S quarters are special because of the unusual mistakes made during production. Whether it’s a design from another country or doubled words, each coin tells a story about how things can go unexpectedly wrong at the mint.
For coin collectors, these coins are more than just money—they’re pieces of history that show how rare errors can create something truly valuable.
Common Questions About Rare 1970-S Quarters
How can I tell if I have a rare 1970-S quarter?
Look closely at your coin. Do you see any strange overlaps, doubled letters, or signs it was made on the wrong material? If so, it might be valuable. For confirmation, send it to a coin grading service like PCGS or NGC.
Where should I sell a rare 1970-S quarter?
Try selling through trusted coin dealers, auction houses, or online sites that specialize in rare coins. Be sure your coin is graded and authenticated first, so buyers know it’s real.
Are all 1970-S quarters worth a lot?
No. Most 1970-S quarters are normal and only worth face value or a little more. Only the rare versions with verified mint errors are worth big money.
Tracey B. Hoye is an insightful astrology blog writer with a passion for decoding the stars and helping readers understand the cosmic forces shaping their lives. With a talent for blending traditional astrological knowledge with modern-day relevance, Tracey crafts engaging and informative content on zodiac signs, horoscopes, and planetary movements. Her goal is to inspire clarity, self-discovery, and spiritual connection through every post.