1970 Nickel Value Checker: Errors List, “D” & “S” Mint Mark Worth

The 1970 nickel value varies significantly based on one crucial design detail most collectors overlook. Standard 1970 nickels typically range from $0.08 in Good condition to around $7.00 in Mint State.

However, coins earning the Full Steps (FS) designation — meaning at least five complete, uninterrupted steps are visible at the base of Monticello on the reverse — command dramatically higher prices. A 1970-S nickel with Full Steps graded MS66FS sold for $6,463 at Heritage Auctions in January 2016.

This premium exists because Monticello’s steps are notoriously difficult to strike cleanly, and the 75%/25% copper-nickel alloy composition is particularly hard on dies.

Most 1970 nickels show weak or incomplete steps. PCGS has certified only three 1970-D Full Steps examples in its entire history, making them extraordinary rarities.

 

1970 Nickel Value By Variety

In 1970, Jefferson nickels were produced at the Denver (D) and San Francisco (S) mints, with San Francisco also striking proof coins exclusively for collectors. The value of a 1970 nickel is determined by its mint mark, its grade, and any special designations or rare errors.

No Philadelphia Mint nickels were struck in 1970, so every 1970 nickel you find will carry either a “D” or “S” mint mark below the date. If you know the grade of your coin, you can find the exact price below in the Value Guides section.

Also Read: Top 100 Most Valuable Jefferson Nickels Worth Money List (1938-Present)

 

Top 10 Most Valuable 1970 Nickel Worth Money

The most valuable 1970 nickels are defined by two things: strike quality and preservation. The top position belongs to a 1970-S Full Steps coin graded MS66FS, which sold for $6,463 at Heritage Auctions on January 6, 2016 — the confirmed auction record for this date according to PCGS CoinFacts.

San Francisco coins dominate this list, claiming seven of ten spots. Denver mint coins also shine when well-preserved; a 1970-D Full Steps MS64 specimen sold for $1,208 at Heritage Auctions on December 8, 2004 — the all-time auction record for that variety. A separate 1970-D MS65FS sold through GreatCollections for $349.88, demonstrating that even lower auction records still represent a massive premium over face value.

Higher grades consistently command premium prices across all varieties. Notice how the 1970-D MS67 (without Full Steps) reaches $719, while lower-grade examples drop significantly in value.

 

History Of The 1970 Nickel

The 1970 nickel belongs to the Jefferson Nickel series that debuted in 1938, replacing the Buffalo nickel. The Treasury Department launched a design competition that attracted nearly 400 entries from professional and amateur artists across the country.

Felix Schlag, a German-born sculptor who had immigrated to the United States in 1929 after studying at the Munich University of Fine Arts, won the competition with his elegant portrayal of America’s third president. Schlag’s original submission featured a three-quarter view of Monticello on the reverse, but Mint officials rejected it and requested a more conventional front-facing perspective of Jefferson’s Virginia estate.

The final design shows Jefferson in left-facing profile on the obverse, with his hair tied back in a colonial-era ribbon — modeled closely on Jean-Antoine Houdon’s famous 1789 bust. Interestingly, Schlag’s initials “FS” did not appear on the coin until 1966, some 28 years after his design entered production. The coin is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel, a composition that numismatists note is particularly hard on dies and contributes directly to the rarity of Full Steps coins.

By 1970, Philadelphia had exited nickel production, leaving Denver and San Francisco to handle circulation output. Denver’s mint alone struck 515,485,380 nickels that year — over half a billion pieces. By late 1970, CoinWeek researchers Charles Morgan and Hubert Walker documented that the Jefferson Nickel proof master dies had become severely worn and lacked fine detail, prompting the Mint to create entirely new master dies for 1971.

That re-engraving program touched up Jefferson’s portrait and Monticello’s image and widened the rim slightly — making the 1970-S proof the last issue struck from the original worn die family.

Also Read: Top 60+ Most Valuable Buffalo Nickels Worth Money

 

Is Your 1970 Nickel Rare?

Most 1970 nickels are common circulation coins worth face value. However, rarity depends on specific factors like mint mark, striking quality, and potential errors.

The rarest regular-issue 1970 nickels are those with the Full Steps designation, particularly from the Denver Mint. PCGS — the Professional Coin Grading Service, one of the top two coin authentication firms — has certified only three 1970-D Full Steps examples ever submitted, making it one of the most elusive conditional rarities in the Jefferson nickel series. Greysheet numismatic author Bill Fivaz specifically called out the 1970-D as a “sleeper” FS date that top registry collectors actively compete for. To assess your coin’s true rarity and current market value, use the Coin Value Checker App for accurate evaluation.

 

Key Features Of The 1970 Nickel

The 1970 nickel showcases Felix Schlag’s classic design that entered production in 1938. This coin displays distinctive characteristics on both sides that collectors should know how to identify. The composition consists of 75% copper and 25% nickel, giving it a silver-like appearance despite containing no silver whatsoever. Understanding these features helps collectors identify authentic specimens and assess their condition accurately.

The Obverse Of The 1970 Nickel

The obverse features President Thomas Jefferson in left-facing profile, modeled closely on the Houdon bust. Felix Schlag created this portrait, which was refined and adjusted at the Mint’s request before entering production.

The inscription “IN GOD WE TRUST” arcs clockwise along the left side. The word “LIBERTY” and year “1970” appear on the right, separated by a five-pointed star. The mint mark “D” or “S” sits directly below the date, while Schlag’s initials “FS” appear below Jefferson’s shoulder — added in 1966 after being absent from the coin for 28 years.

The Reverse Of The 1970 Nickel

The reverse displays Monticello, Jefferson’s Virginia estate, in frontal view — the perspective the Mint required after rejecting Schlag’s original three-quarter angle. The word “MONTICELLO” appears directly below the building, added to prevent confusion with other structures.

The motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM” (“Out of Many, One”) runs at the top. “FIVE CENTS” curves below Monticello, and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” runs along the bottom edge. The six steps at the base of Monticello’s portico are the most scrutinized design element for collectors assessing strike quality and Full Steps eligibility.

Other Features Of The 1970 Nickel

The coin measures 21.2 millimeters in diameter and weighs exactly 5 grams. The edge is plain and smooth throughout, with no reeding. This matches specifications for all Jefferson nickels in this era.

Coins with the Full Steps (FS) designation are particularly scarce. PCGS requires at least five complete, uninterrupted steps at the base of Monticello’s portico. NGC — the Numismatic Guaranty Company — recognizes both 5FS (five full steps) and 6FS (six full steps) designations for business strike coins, with the 6FS being rarer and more valuable. Any interruption in the step lines from a weak strike, planchet flaw, or contact mark disqualifies the coin from earning this premium designation.

Also Read: Top 100 Rarest Nickels Worth Money (Most Expensive)

 

1970 Nickel Mintage & Survival Data

The 1970 nickel mintage data reveals striking production disparities across facilities. Denver dominated output with exactly 515,485,380 pieces — confirmed by PCGS CoinFacts — while San Francisco produced 214,464,814 circulation strikes.

San Francisco additionally struck 2,632,810 proof coins in three categories: standard Proof, Cameo (CAM), and Deep Cameo (DCAM). CAM and DCAM proofs feature frosted raised design elements contrasting against mirror-like background fields; DCAM coins have the strongest, most intense frost and are the most valuable of the three.

The survival distribution chart shows Deep Cameo proofs accounting for the overwhelming majority of documented survivors, with 1,118,944 coins representing a 42.5% survival rate. This relatively high preservation rate reflects the careful storage of proof coins by collectors, as opposed to circulation strikes that spent decades in pockets and cash registers. Survival data for standard circulation strikes from both mints remains largely unknown, as most passed through commerce and were never preserved.

Also Read: Jefferson Nickel Value (1938-Present)

 

The Easy Way to Know Your 1970 Nickel Value

Determining your 1970 nickel’s value depends on several key factors working together. Mint mark location, coin condition, strike quality, and any potential errors all play crucial roles in establishing what a collector would pay.

Most circulated examples remain worth face value, but uncirculated specimens or those with Full Steps on Monticello command serious premiums. Error varieties and exceptional preservation significantly increase worth. Rather than guessing your coin’s value, get an accurate evaluation instantly with the Coin Value Checker App for precise, up-to-date market pricing.

 

1970 Nickel Value Guides

• 1970-D Nickel — Minted in Denver with exactly 515,485,380 pieces produced, making it the most common 1970 variety by a wide margin. Values range from face value to $0.50 in circulated condition, with MS65 examples reaching $15–$30. MS67 specimens without Full Steps can reach $719 at auction.
• 1970-S Nickel — San Francisco business strike with 214,464,814 minted. Circulated coins value at $0.10–$0.50, while MS65 specimens are worth $20–$40. According to PCGS CoinFacts numismatist Ron Guth, the 1970-S is “very common in Mint State, especially in MS64 to MS65,” though nothing above MS66 has been documented.
• 1970-S Proof — Special collector coins struck from specially prepared dies and polished planchets, producing sharp details and mirror-like fields. Standard proof examples (PR65–PR67) typically value between $1–$3, though one PR64 achieved a surprising $1,725 at Heritage Auctions in August 2010.
• 1970-S CAM (Cameo) — Proof nickels with moderate contrast between frosted design elements and mirror background fields. CAM stands for “Cameo.” PR65CAM specimens range from $8–$15 depending on quality.
• 1970-S DCAM (Deep Cameo) — The most sought-after proof variety, requiring intensely frosted devices on both sides with deeply mirrored fields creating a dramatic black-and-white visual effect. DCAM stands for “Deep Cameo.” High-grade examples (PR67–PR69) can command $25–$100 or more, with the auction record standing at $620 for a PR69DCAM sold in January 2021.

The 1970 nickel series offers collectors diverse options across multiple mint facilities and striking qualities. Denver and San Francisco business strikes remain affordable for beginners. Proof versions with Cameo and Deep Cameo designations are especially valuable and make excellent additions to any proof set collection.

 

1970-D Nickel Value

The 1970-D nickel presents a classic paradox in numismatics: one of the most common coins by mintage, yet one of the rarest by strike quality. Over 515 million pieces were produced, but specimens showing Full Steps on Monticello’s entrance are extraordinarily scarce — the result of dies used well past their effectiveness during this period, creating what numismatic author Bill Fivaz described as “mushy” features and an “orange peel” look in the fields.

According to PCGS CoinFacts, the service has certified only three 1970-D Full Steps examples total, with the finest being a single MS65FS specimen. This extreme scarcity places the 1970-D among the most elusive full-strike dates in the entire Jefferson nickel series. The confirmed auction record for a 1970-D Full Steps nickel is $1,208 for an MS64FS specimen sold at Heritage Auctions on December 8, 2004. Standard strikes without Full Steps designation remain considerably more affordable at all grade levels.

Auction records show steady price progression across different grade levels.

Market activity reflects varying collector interest throughout the year.

 

1970-S Nickel Value

The 1970-S nickel represents a relative bright spot in strike quality for this era of the Jefferson series. Unlike many dates from the mid-1960s to early 1970s where the PCGS Full Steps population is either extremely low or non-existent, the 1970-S has produced nearly 200 certified Full Steps examples — making it one of the few dates from this difficult period with a meaningful collector market for step-designated coins.

PCGS CoinFacts numismatist Ron Guth notes that while the 1970-S is scarce with Full Steps, “this date is nowhere near as rare as many of the dates of the mid-1960s to early 1970s.” The finest certified examples include a pair of MS66FS specimens, and no examples grading higher than MS66 have been recorded for standard strikes. The confirmed auction record for a 1970-S Full Steps nickel is $6,463 at Heritage Auctions on January 6, 2016 (MS66FS). For regular non-FS business strikes, Heritage Auctions recorded $660 for an MS66+ specimen on August 26, 2020.

Auction records demonstrate value growth as grades increase across the Mint State range.

Market activity shows fluctuating collector engagement throughout different periods.

 

1970-S Proof Nickel Value

The 1970-S proof nickel was produced exclusively for collectors at the San Francisco Mint, with a total mintage of 2,632,810 specimens. These coins were struck using specially prepared dies and polished planchets at a slower pace than business strikes, creating sharp details and deeply mirrored surfaces. The 1970-S proof is historically significant as the last proof Jefferson nickel struck from the original worn master die family — by late 1970, those dies had deteriorated to the point that the Mint commissioned entirely new masters for the 1971 series.

Most examples grade well up through PR68, with those grades being relatively common and affordable. Higher grades require more effort to locate but remain attainable. The confirmed auction record for a standard 1970-S proof nickel is $1,725 for a PR64 specimen sold at Heritage Auctions on August 11, 2010 — an unusually strong result that likely reflects specific eye appeal or market conditions at that sale.

Auction records indicate steady values across most proof grade levels.

Market activity demonstrates consistent collector interest throughout the year.

 

1970-S CAM Nickel Value

The 1970-S Cameo (CAM) proof nickel features moderate contrast between frosted design elements and mirror-like background fields. This designation falls between standard proofs and Deep Cameo specimens, offering enhanced visual appeal without reaching the intensity of DCAM examples.

The Cameo effect results from die preparation techniques that create partial frosting on the raised portions of Jefferson’s portrait and Monticello’s details. As dies wore during production, the frosting effect gradually diminished, making earlier production strikes more likely to achieve Cameo status.

It is worth noting that all proof Jefferson nickels struck before the mid-1970s with full cameo devices are considered relatively scarce and valuable compared to later issues, according to Greysheet. The confirmed auction record for a 1970-S CAM nickel is $265 for a PR69 specimen sold at Heritage Auctions in November 2000.

Auction records display steady pricing across certified grade levels for this variety.

Market activity shows moderate collector engagement throughout different periods.

 

1970-S DCAM Nickel Value

The 1970-S Deep Cameo (DCAM) nickel represents the premium tier among proof nickels from this year. To earn the DCAM designation, a coin must display intensely frosted devices with no reflective breaks on both the obverse and reverse sides. The dramatic black-and-white contrast between frosted design elements and deeply mirrored fields creates a visual effect highly prized by collectors.

Higher grade PR70 Deep Cameo examples are considerably harder to find, though sufficient quantities exist in the marketplace for determined collectors. The designation depends entirely on die condition during striking — earlier production runs during a die’s life are more likely to achieve full Deep Cameo status, as the frosting gradually diminishes with each coin struck. The confirmed auction record for a 1970-S DCAM nickel is $620 for a PR69DCAM specimen sold on eBay in January 2021.

Auction records show progressive value increases across higher proof grade levels.

Market activity demonstrates steady collector interest throughout the tracking period.

Also Read: 22 Rare Nickel Errors List with Pictures (By Year)

 

Rare 1970 Nickel Error List

While most 1970 nickels follow standard design and strike specifications, several notable minting mistakes slipped through production and remain highly collectible today. As a modern issue, major errors are uncommon — but when found, they carry significant premiums. These manufacturing flaws range from doubled die varieties to dramatic wrong planchet errors that completely transform the coin’s appearance.

1. Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) Error

The Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) error on 1970 nickels occurred during die production when the metal hub struck the working die multiple times with slight misalignment. This process, used before 1997 to transfer the full design onto dies, permanently etched doubled imagery into the die itself — meaning every coin struck from that die carries the same doubling.

On the 1970 DDO, the doubling appears most prominently on “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” the date numerals, and the star below Jefferson’s portrait. The doubling should be clearly raised and distinct — not blurred — and should spread consistently toward the coin’s center. Circulated DDO nickels typically bring $25–$75 depending on doubling visibility, while bold uncirculated specimens can reach $150–$500 at auction. Certified examples with exceptionally prominent doubling have sold for over $1,000.

2. Doubled Die Reverse (DDR) Error

The Doubled Die Reverse (DDR) error affects the Monticello side of the coin through the same hub-doubling mechanism as the DDO. On 1970 DDR examples, the strongest spreading typically appears on “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” and particularly on the letters in “AMERICA,” which often display the boldest separation.

Standard DDR business strikes in circulated condition sell for $30–$100. Uncirculated examples with strong, visible doubling can reach $150–$400 at major auctions. Proof versions with DDR errors are significantly rarer and more valuable, commanding $300–$800 in higher grades — with the most dramatic examples selling for over $1,000 at specialized numismatic auctions.

3. Off-Center Strikes

Off-center strikes occur when the planchet is improperly positioned during the striking process, creating coins with partial designs and blank areas where the die missed the metal entirely. The degree of misalignment directly determines collector value.

Strikes showing 10–50% off-center are the most desirable, particularly when the date and mint mark remain fully visible on the struck portion. Examples with complete, legible date and mint mark information paired with dramatic blank areas command the highest premiums. These dramatic errors demonstrate the precision required in modern coin production and are easily verified even without specialized equipment.

4. Clipped Planchet Error

Clipped planchet errors happen when the metal strip from which planchets are punched overlaps with a previously punched hole during the blanking process. This creates coins with missing sections along the edge before striking even begins.

The resulting clips can be curved (more common) or straight (less common), and size matters significantly to collectors — larger clips create more dramatic and visible errors that command higher premiums. The remaining design elements appear normal but incomplete due to the missing metal. These errors are easily identifiable and beginner-friendly to authenticate.

5. Repunched Mint Mark (RPM) Error

Repunched Mint Mark (RPM) errors show traces of an initial mint mark impression beneath or beside the final placement. These occurred because, during 1970, mint marks were still hand-punched onto individual working dies using steel punches and mallets — not incorporated into the master hub. Multiple punch attempts with slight positional differences created distinctive doubling or tripling of the “D” or “S” letter.

Collectors value RPM varieties for documenting historical mint production methods before automation standardized the process in 1989. The value depends heavily on how visible and dramatic the secondary impression appears. RPMs that are easily visible to the naked eye without magnification command higher premiums than those requiring a loupe to detect.

6. Wrong Planchet Error (Struck on Cent Planchet)

The most dramatic and valuable 1970 nickel errors involve coins struck on planchets intended for entirely different denominations. A 1970 nickel struck on a copper Lincoln cent planchet is immediately identifiable by its copper-gold color and lighter weight — approximately 3.1 grams instead of the standard 5 grams. The smaller planchet size also means portions of the nickel’s design are cut off at the edges.

Heritage Auctions has sold certified examples from the Don Bonser Collection, which included a 1970 Jefferson nickel struck on a clad dime planchet graded MS62 by PCGS — demonstrating that both cent and dime planchet errors exist for this date. Wrong planchet errors for 1970 nickels typically sell for $2,000–$5,000 depending on grade and eye appeal, with higher grade examples potentially commanding even greater premiums due to extreme scarcity.

 

Where To Sell Your 1970 Nickel?

Selling your 1970 nickel requires choosing the right marketplace to maximize value. Whether you own common circulated examples or rare varieties like Full Steps specimens, selecting an appropriate venue matters significantly.

We’ve compiled comprehensive information on the best places to sell coins online, including detailed pros and cons for each platform to help you make informed decisions.

Check out now: Best Places To Sell Coins Online (Pros & Cons)

 

1970 Nickel Market Trend

*Market Trend Chart showing the number of people paying attention to this coin.

 

FAQ About The 1970 Nickel Value

1. Where is the mint mark on a 1970 nickel?

The mint mark on a 1970 nickel is on the obverse (front) side, positioned directly below the date and just to the right of Jefferson’s portrait. All 1970 nickels carry either a “D” (Denver) or “S” (San Francisco) mint mark in this location.

Philadelphia did not produce nickels in 1970, so no 1970 nickels exist without a mint mark. If you find one that appears to have no mint mark, it may be a worn coin where the small letter has become difficult to see, not a rare variety.

2. What is a 1970 nickel made of?

The 1970 nickel is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel — the standard cupro-nickel alloy used throughout the Jefferson nickel series from 1938 to present (except the 1942–1945 silver war nickels, which contained 35% silver). This composition gives the coin its distinctive silver-like appearance despite containing no silver.

The coin weighs exactly 5 grams, measures 21.2 millimeters in diameter, and has a plain, smooth edge with no reeding. Knowing the correct weight is important for identifying wrong planchet errors, since a 1970 nickel struck on a cent planchet weighs only about 3.1 grams.

3. How much is a 1970 nickel worth?

Most 1970 nickels in circulated condition are worth face value to around $0.50. Uncirculated specimens can reach $15–$40 depending on mint mark and grade. Full Steps examples with PCGS or NGC certification command dramatically higher premiums — the 1970-S MS66FS holds the all-time auction record at $6,463, while the 1970-D MS64FS sold for $1,208, both at Heritage Auctions.

4. What does “Full Steps” mean on a 1970 nickel?

Full Steps (FS) is a special designation awarded by PCGS and NGC to Jefferson nickels that show at least five complete, uninterrupted steps at the base of Monticello’s portico on the reverse. Any break, nick, planchet flaw, or mark anywhere along those step lines disqualifies the coin from earning the designation.

NGC additionally distinguishes between 5FS (five full steps) and 6FS (six full steps) designations, with 6FS being rarer and more valuable. PCGS awards a single “FS” designation for coins meeting the five-step minimum. The 1970 nickel series is notorious for weak strikes, making Full Steps coins exceptionally rare and desirable.

5. Is a 1970 proof nickel worth anything?

Yes — but the value depends heavily on the proof designation. Standard 1970-S proofs (PR65–PR67) are common and typically worth $1–$3. CAM (Cameo) proofs, which show frosted design elements against mirror fields, range from $8–$15 at PR65. DCAM (Deep Cameo) proofs with the strongest contrast are the most valuable, with PR69DCAM examples selling for up to $620. One unusual PR64 standard proof sold for $1,725 at Heritage Auctions in 2010, reflecting a specific market moment rather than typical prices.

6. How do I tell if my 1970 nickel has a doubled die error?

Use a 10x magnification loupe and examine the obverse lettering carefully. On a genuine DDO (Doubled Die Obverse), you will see distinct, raised secondary images of letters — not blurred or smeared impressions. Look specifically at “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” for clear doubling that spreads consistently toward the center.

A doubled die is a die error, meaning every coin struck from that die will show the same doubling in the same direction. What you see should be sharp doubled edges, not a shallow “shelf” effect, which would be strike doubling and has little to no collector value.

7. Did Philadelphia make nickels in 1970?

No — Philadelphia did not strike Jefferson nickels for circulation in 1970. Production was split between Denver (515,485,380 pieces) and San Francisco (214,464,814 circulation strikes plus 2,632,810 proof coins). Philadelphia resumed nickel production in 1971, when it also struck the vast majority of business-strike coins for that year.

8. What is the 1970 nickel struck on a wrong planchet worth?

Wrong planchet errors for 1970 nickels are among the rarest and most valuable errors in the series. A 1970 nickel struck on a copper cent planchet is identifiable by its copper-gold color and reduced weight of approximately 3.1 grams.

Heritage Auctions has documented certified examples, including a 1970 Jefferson nickel struck on a clad dime planchet from the Don Bonser Collection (graded MS62 by PCGS). These wrong planchet errors typically sell for $2,000–$5,000 depending on grade, with higher-grade examples potentially commanding significantly more.

9. Why are Full Steps 1970-D nickels so rare?

The extreme rarity of Full Steps on 1970-D nickels comes down to die quality and the hardness of the cupro-nickel alloy. Numismatic author Bill Fivaz has explained that the 75%/25% copper-nickel composition does not lend itself to quality strikes, and during the late 1960s to 1970, the U.S. Mint was using dies well past their optimal lifespan.

By late 1970, the proof master dies themselves had become so worn that the Mint commissioned entirely new re-engraved masters for 1971. PCGS has certified only three 1970-D Full Steps examples — a population count that makes this one of the most elusive conditional rarities in the modern Jefferson nickel series.

10. Can I find a valuable 1970 nickel in circulation today?

It is theoretically possible but practically very difficult. While hundreds of millions of 1970 nickels were produced, the coins with premium value — Full Steps examples, dramatic errors, and high-grade uncirculated specimens — were identified and removed from circulation decades ago by sharp-eyed collectors.

Your best chance of finding a valuable 1970 nickel today is searching original bank rolls that were never opened, examining old coin collections purchased at estate sales, or attending coin shows where dealers sometimes offer undervalued examples. Any circulated 1970 nickel you find in pocket change will almost certainly be worth only face value.