How to Identify a Rare Susan B. Anthony Dollar That’s Quietly Worth: The Susan B. Anthony (SBA) dollar, first minted in 1979, is one of the most misunderstood and underappreciated coins in U.S. history. While most of these coins are worth just face value, a select few carry incredible value for collectors—some even worth over $500,000. If you’re lucky enough to have one of these rare coins in your possession, you might just be sitting on a small fortune.
So, how do you tell the difference between a common SBA dollar and one that could change your life? Let’s dive in.
A Brief History of the Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Introduced in 1979, the Susan B. Anthony dollar was the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman (not an allegorical figure like Liberty). While it was an ambitious step toward honoring women in history, the coin had several challenges:
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Its size and color closely resembled the quarter.
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It was unpopular in commerce.
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It was minted only from 1979 to 1981, and again briefly in 1999.
Despite its short run, the series includes some rare varieties and errors that are highly sought after.
What Makes a Susan B. Anthony Dollar Valuable?
Most Susan B. Anthony dollars are worth only $1, but certain factors can cause their value to soar:
1. Rarity or Low Mintage
Some coins, like the 1979-P Wide Rim or the 1981-S Type 2 Proof, were produced in limited quantities or as part of special sets.
2. Mint Errors
Misstrikes, off-centers, or double dies can greatly increase a coin’s value.
3. High Grade (MS67 or Higher)
Coins in mint condition, especially those graded by PCGS or NGC, can fetch high prices.
4. Special Proof Varieties
Proof coins are struck with higher detail and clarity and often sell for a premium—especially rare types like the 1981-S Type 2 Proof.
The $500,000 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Among all SBA dollars, the 1979-P “Wide Rim” Near Date in perfect condition (MS67+ or better) is one of the most valuable. Another standout is a 1981-S Type 2 Proof that has fetched six-figure prices at auction due to its extreme rarity and pristine condition.
What drives the value this high?
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Scarcity in high grades
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Demand among collectors for complete sets
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Desirability of rare minting errors and proof varieties
In the right auction setting, these coins have exceeded $500,000—a staggering return for a coin that originally cost just a dollar.
Key Susan B. Anthony Dollars to Look For
| Year | Mint Mark | Variety | Est. Value (High Grade) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1979 | P | Wide Rim / Near Date | $6,000+ | One of the most famous SBA varieties |
| 1979 | S | Type 2 Proof | $500+ | Clear S mint mark, rare proof coin |
| 1981 | S | Type 2 Proof | $1,000–$10,000+ | Very limited release, proof only |
| 1999 | P or D | Regular Strike (MS68+) | $2,000+ | Last year of issue, low pop in high grade |
| 1979–1981 | Any | Major Errors (Off-center, Double Die) | $10,000–$500,000 | Condition & type of error determine price |
How to Identify the Valuable Ones
Here are a few simple tips to determine whether your Susan B. Anthony dollar might be rare or valuable:
1. Check the Rim
If you have a 1979-P coin, look at the spacing between the date and the rim. If they are very close, you likely have the “Wide Rim” Near Date variety.
2. Examine the Mint Mark
Proof coins from San Francisco will have an “S” mint mark. For the Type 2 Proofs, look for a clear, well-defined “S” instead of the filled “S” used in Type 1.
3. Look for Errors
Search for any abnormalities—misstrikes, doubling of the design, off-center strikes, etc. These can be extremely valuable.
4. Get the Coin Graded
Professional grading by companies like PCGS or NGC can verify the authenticity and condition of your coin—and drastically increase its value if it’s rare.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How can I tell if my 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar is worth money?
A: Look for the Wide Rim (Near Date) version of the 1979-P dollar. It’s valuable, especially in high grade. Also check for any unusual errors.
Q: Are all Susan B. Anthony dollars rare?
A: No. Most are only worth face value, but a few key varieties and errors are extremely valuable.
Q: Where can I sell a valuable Susan B. Anthony dollar?
A: You can sell it at coin auctions, reputable dealers, or online platforms like eBay, but be sure to get it graded first.
Q: What does “MS67” mean?
A: It stands for “Mint State 67,” a high grade on the coin grading scale, indicating a near-perfect coin.
Q: Should I clean my coin before selling?
A: No! Cleaning a coin can reduce its value. Leave it as is and have it evaluated by a professional.
Final Thought
The Susan B. Anthony dollar might be easy to overlook, but within this often-ignored series lies the potential for serious profit. With just a bit of knowledge and a keen eye, you could identify a coin that collectors would pay thousands—or even hundreds of thousands—for.
Whether you’re a casual collector or just emptying out your old coin jar, it’s worth taking a closer look. That humble dollar might just be the key to a half-million-dollar discovery.