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Coin and Paper Money Collecting/Small Date Pennies
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Question
Hi,
Can you please tell me how to tell the difference between the 1960 and 1970 small date and large date pennies? I have a set of each that I purchase but they look the same to me.
Thank you,
Hankster
Hi Hank,
The 1970-S is the tough one - Look at the word Liberty on the 1970-S cent. On the large date the entire word Liberty will be bold. On the small date the last few letters of Liberty will be weak. Also, if you enlarge close up images of the "0" in 1970 you will find the zero is almost a perfect circle. The large date zero is more oval shape. Just looking and comparing the entire date may drive one crazy.
The 1960 is more easier to compare - first look at the 1960-D small vs large date then move to the 1960-P. You should see a distinct difference in size.
When in doubt you can always send the coins to PCGS or NGC for authentication, especially on the 1970-S small date cent. Or in the future just buy a coin that has been certified to begin with.
I hope this helps! Thanks, Troy Thoreson
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Answers by Expert:
Troy Thoreson
Expertise
Please, no error coin questions unless your coin is dated 1955 or before. I can answer questions regarding all U.S. Coins, Gold & Silver bullion, including regular mint and proof issue coins and currency. Since 2009, I have been contributing to the Red Book, "A Guide Book of United States Coins", by R.S. Yeoman along with two other publications. I currently run two coin shops in California.
Experience
I have over 30 years experience in Numismatics. I own two coin shops and have examined thousands of coins over the years. Please allow up to 2 business days for an answer. This is a free service and I am happy to answer questions - but please be patient and understanding of my time.
Organizations
My company is an authorized P.C.G.S. and N.G.C. dealer. I am a Life Member of the American Numismatic Association and California State Numismatic Association. We are also an authorized Whites Metal Detector dealership.
Publications
I have written articles for Coin World and the Rare Coin Market Report.
Education/Credentials
I have a certificate of completion from the American Numismatic Association on how to detect counterfeit U.S. Gold Coins and how to Grade U.S. Coins along with other certifications. I have a Bachelor of Science in Business with a concentration in Accounting and a minor in Computer Information Systems.
Awards and Honors
I am listed as a contributor to the Red Book, "A Guide Book of United States Coins", the Red Book, by R.S. Yeoman. I have been contributing to the Red Book since 2009. I also contribute to the Blue Book and the new Professional edition Red Book. I have many other awards and honors.
Past/Present Clients
My past consulting clients included eBay, Inc., Yahoo! Auctions, and the United States Postal Service. I have many other great customers and help all no matter their level of collecting.
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