The 1970-S Washington quarter has become a focal point for coin collectors due to specific minting errors that can elevate its value to extraordinary levels. Some of these error coins have fetched over $500,000 at auctions, making them highly sought after in the numismatic community.
This article explores the top five errors that can turn a standard 1970-S quarter into a valuable collector’s item.
Double Die Obverse (DDO) Error
A Double Die Obverse error occurs when the coin’s die is misaligned during production, causing elements on the coin’s front to appear doubled. In the 1970-S quarter, this doubling is most noticeable in the inscriptions “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
Collectors highly prize clear and distinct DDO errors, often paying a premium for such coins.
Off-Center Strikes
Off-center strikes happen when the coin blank is improperly aligned during minting, resulting in a misaligned design. For the 1970-S quarter, the degree of misalignment can vary, with some coins struck 10%, 25%, or even 50% off-center.
The value of these coins increases with the extent of the error and the coin’s overall condition, with well-preserved off-center strikes commanding significant sums.
Wrong Planchet Errors
A wrong planchet error occurs when a coin is struck on a blank intended for a different denomination or foreign currency.
In the case of the 1970-S quarter, some coins were mistakenly struck on planchets meant for dimes or other coins, leading to noticeable differences in size or weight. These errors are exceptionally rare and can fetch high prices at auction due to their uniqueness.
Clipped Planchet
Clipped planchet errors happen when a portion of the coin’s blank is missing before the coin is struck, resulting in a coin with a missing section. This error can range from a small clip to a significant portion of the coin being absent.
Clipped planchet errors in the 1970-S quarter are uncommon and are valued based on the size of the clip and the coin’s condition.
Broad Strike
A broad strike error occurs when a coin is struck without the retaining collar that shapes its edge, causing the metal to spread out more than usual. This results in a coin that is larger in diameter with a distorted design.
Broad strike errors in the 1970-S quarter are rare and can be quite valuable, especially when the coin remains in excellent condition.
| Error Type | Description | Value Range | Rarity Level | Notable Sales |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Double Die Obverse | Doubling in inscriptions like “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” | High | Rare | Over $500,000 at auctions |
| Off-Center Strike | Misaligned design due to improper blank alignment | Moderate to High | Uncommon | Tens of thousands of dollars |
| Wrong Planchet | Coin struck on a blank meant for a different denomination | High | Very Rare | Six-figure sums |
| Clipped Planchet | Missing portion of the coin due to incomplete blank | Variable | Uncommon | Varies based on clip size and condition |
| Broad Strike | Absence of retaining collar leading to expanded coin diameter | Moderate to High | Rare | Significant premiums in excellent condition |
Identifying these errors requires careful examination, often with magnification, to spot anomalies in the coin’s design, size, or shape. Collectors interested in acquiring or selling a 1970-S quarter with potential errors should consult with professional numismatists or reputable coin grading services to authenticate and accurately assess the coin’s value.
Owning a 1970-S quarter with one of these rare errors is like holding a piece of minting history, reflecting the fascinating complexities of coin production and the unique characteristics that can arise.
FAQs
1. What is a Double Die Obverse error?
A Double Die Obverse error occurs when the coin’s die is misaligned during production, causing elements on the coin’s front, such as inscriptions, to appear doubled.
2. How can I identify an off-center strike on a 1970-S quarter?
An off-center strike is identified by a misaligned design, where the coin’s features are not centered correctly, resulting in a portion of the design being cut off.
3. What should I do if I find a 1970-S quarter with a potential error?
If you discover a 1970-S quarter that you believe has an error, it’s advisable to consult with a professional numismatist or submit the coin to a reputable grading service for authentication and valuation.
4. Are all 1970-S quarters with errors valuable?
Not all errors result in high value. The rarity and prominence of the error, along with the coin’s condition, significantly influence its market value.
5. Where can I sell a 1970-S quarter with a known error?
You can sell such coins through reputable coin dealers, auction houses, or online platforms specializing in numismatic items. Ensure that the coin is authenticated and graded to achieve the best possible price.
