The Susan B. Anthony Dollar is one of America’s most misunderstood coins. First minted in 1979, it was created to honor the women’s suffrage pioneer Susan B. Anthony and to modernize the dollar coin system. Yet its small size and silver-like appearance made it easy to confuse with a quarter, limiting circulation. Today, collectors are rediscovering these coins, and some rare variations can be worth hundreds of dollars.
The History of the Susan B. Anthony Dollar
The U.S. Mint introduced the coin to replace the $1 bill, which wore out quickly. Designed by Frank Gasparro, the obverse features Anthony’s stern portrait, while the reverse shows an eagle landing on the moon, echoing the Apollo 11 insignia—a symbol of progress and equality. The coin circulated from 1979–1981, returned briefly in 1999, and then gave way to the Sacagawea Dollar in 2000.
How to Determine a Susan B. Anthony Dollar’s Value
Most coins in circulation are only worth face value, but collectors know that year, mint mark, condition, and special varieties make a huge difference.
| Type | Year(s) | Average Value | High-Grade Collector Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Circulated | 1979–1981, 1999 | $1 | $1–$1.25 |
| Uncirculated (Mint State) | 1979–1981, 1999 | $2–$5 | $10–$20 |
| Proof Coins | 1979–1981, 1999 | $10–$20 | Up to $50+ |
| Rare Variants/Errors | 1979-P Wide Rim, 1981-S Type 2 | $25–$200+ | Depends on rarity |
Key Mint Marks to Know
- P = Philadelphia
- D = Denver
- S = San Francisco
Notable Rare Coins
- 1979-P Wide Rim: The date sits closer to the rim. Uncirculated examples sell for $25–$100.
- 1981-S Type 2 Proof: High-grade coins can fetch $100+ and are prized for their sharp “S” mint mark.
- 1999-P and 1999-D: Limited minting before the Sacagawea Dollar. Uncirculated coins usually sell for $5–$15.
Identifying Proofs and Error Coins
- Proof Coins: Mirror-like surfaces, special polished dies, and “S” mint marks. Designed for collectors, not circulation.
- Error Coins: Double strikes, off-center images, or planchet flaws. Some 1979-S double die obverse examples can fetch hundreds of dollars.
Authentication by professional grading services like PCGS or NGC adds credibility and can significantly increase value.
Market Trends and Collector Interest
Unlike silver dollars, Susan B. Anthony Dollars are copper-nickel clad, meaning no intrinsic metal value. Their collectibility relies entirely on rarity and condition. Over the past decade, mint-state coins and proof variations have steadily appreciated, making them desirable among collectors and investors. Online marketplaces like eBay, Heritage Auctions, and GreatCollections often reflect real-world prices that differ from catalog estimates.
Storing and Selling Your Susan B. Anthony Dollars
- Avoid cleaning coins to preserve their value.
- Use protective holders or flips to prevent damage.
- Consider professional grading if the coin appears mint.
- Check current market listings before selling.
Even if a coin isn’t extremely rare, holding onto it preserves a piece of American history.
FAQs
How many Susan B. Anthony Dollars were minted?
Over 888 million coins were produced from 1979 to 1999 across all mints.
Are any made of silver?
No, all coins are copper-nickel clad.
Which are the rarest Susan B. Anthony Dollars?
The 1981-S Type 2 Proof and the 1979-P Wide Rim are top collectibles.
Where can I sell these coins?
Online platforms like eBay, GreatCollections, or through local coin dealers and certified grading services.
Are they still legal tender?
Yes, they remain valid U.S. currency, though rarely seen in circulation.
Conclusion
The Susan B. Anthony Dollar is more than a failed circulation coin—it’s a tribute to a historic figure and a hidden collectible. Whether you’re hunting for rare proof coins, mint-state examples, or unusual errors, a careful eye can reveal coins worth far more than their face value. Collecting these dollars combines history, art, and potential investment, proving even a small coin can hold big surprises.