The Susan B. Anthony dollar holds a special place in U.S. coinage history as the first coin to feature a woman. While many of these coins are only worth face value, certain rare examples can be worth thousands of dollars. Condition, rarity, and minting errors are the key factors that determine their value. It’s worth checking your collection to see if you own one of these remarkable pieces.
Quick Fact
Minted between 1979 and 1981, with a re-release in 1999, the Susan B. Anthony dollar features a portrait of the renowned suffragist on the obverse and an eagle landing on the moon on the reverse.
Most Valuable Susan B. Anthony Dollars
The Susan B. Anthony dollar commemorates one of the most significant figures in American history and is a popular coin among collectors. While many coins are only valued at one dollar, certain rare varieties and error coins have fetched impressive prices. Below are some of the most valuable examples:
| Coin | Value |
|---|---|
| 1981-S Susan B. Anthony in gem condition | $21,600 |
| 1999-P Susan B. Anthony struck on Sacagawea planchet | $16,100 |
| 1979-P Susan B. Anthony struck on a quarter planchet | $13,200 |
| No-date Susan B. Anthony struck on a dime planchet | $11,400 |
| 1979-S Susan B. Anthony struck on a copper planchet | $8,700 |
| 1980-S Susan B. Anthony struck on a nickel planchet | $6,900 |
| 1979-P Susan B. Anthony with a wide rim | $6,500 |
1981-S Susan B. Anthony Dollar in Gem Condition
The 1981-S Susan B. Anthony dollar is a rare gem among circulated coins, prized for its pristine condition. Unlike proof coins, which are specially struck for collectors, this coin was originally intended for everyday use. What sets it apart is its exceptional preservation: the portrait details remain sharp and immaculate, while the letters and numbers exhibit a bold, flawless strike.
Finding a circulated coin in such remarkable condition is incredibly uncommon, making it highly desirable among collectors. Its extraordinary state led to a record-breaking sale of $21,600 in 2022, demonstrating the value of superior quality in the world of numismatics.
1999-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar Struck on a Sacagawea Planchet
Minting errors can dramatically increase a coin’s value, and the 1999-P Susan B. Anthony dollar struck on a Sacagawea planchet is a prime example. This unique error resulted when a blank planchet intended for a Sacagawea dollar, with its distinctive golden tone, was mistakenly used in the minting process for a Susan B. Anthony dollar.
The coin features the design of the 1999 Susan B. Anthony dollar but on the wrong material, creating a striking appearance and significant collector interest. Its rarity and excellent condition led to a sale of $16,100 in 2006, making it one of the most sought-after error coins in U.S. numismatic history.
1979-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar Struck on a Quarter
Error coins often hold significant value, and the 1979-P Susan B. Anthony dollar struck on a quarter planchet is a remarkable example. This fascinating mistake occurred when a quarter-sized blank was incorrectly fed into the press intended for striking dollar coins. The result is a unique coin with overlapping designs, where Susan B. Anthony’s profile is partially imprinted with elements from the quarter’s reverse, such as the eagle’s feathers.
Its distinct appearance and rarity make it highly desirable among collectors. In 2022, this intriguing error coin fetched an impressive $13,200, underscoring the appeal of unusual minting mistakes in numismatics.
No-Date Susan B. Anthony Dollar Struck on a Dime
Another striking minting error, this Susan B. Anthony dollar was mistakenly struck on a dime planchet, likely from 1978. The error resulted in a uniquely shaped coin with notched edges and overlapping designs from both the dollar and dime.
This unusual combination of profiles creates a captivating visual anomaly, making it a prized collector’s item. Its rarity and distinctive features helped it achieve a sale price of $11,400 in 2022, further illustrating the high demand for error coins in excellent condition.
1979-S Susan B. Anthony Dollar Struck on a Copper Planchet
The 1979-S Susan B. Anthony dollar struck on a copper penny planchet is a fascinating example of a minting error caused by a mismatched planchet. In this instance, a blank intended for a penny was incorrectly fed into the press designed to strike Susan B. Anthony dollars. The result is a smaller, copper-colored coin bearing the iconic design of the suffragist.
This unusual error is further distinguished by its sharp and well-preserved details, which enhance its appeal to collectors. In 2023, this rare and intriguing coin fetched $8,700 at auction, highlighting the significant value minting errors can add to coins.
1980-S Susan B. Anthony Dollar Struck on a Nickel Planchet
The 1980-S Susan B. Anthony dollar struck on a nickel planchet is a captivating minting error that showcases the unpredictability of the coin production process. In this case, a nickel blank was mistakenly fed into the press for striking dollar coins. The resulting coin has a smaller diameter than a standard Susan B. Anthony dollar, with a notched edge and well-defined details.
This rare and unusual error has significant appeal among collectors, especially due to its excellent preservation and unique characteristics. In 2021, this fascinating piece sold for $6,900, further emphasizing the allure of error coins in the world of numismatics.
1979-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar With Wide Rim
The 1979-P Susan B. Anthony dollar with a wide rim is a fascinating variation that emerged from a subtle design change during the coin’s first year of production. This design alteration resulted in some coins featuring a broader rim, causing the date to appear closer to the edge than on standard examples. These wide-rim coins are considered rare, and their value increases significantly when found in pristine condition. In 2016, one such example sold for nearly $6,500.
Need to Know
While all dollar coins hold a base value of at least one dollar, the 1979-P Susan B. Anthony dollar stands out as the most valuable circulated example. As the inaugural year of production, 1979 coins are particularly desirable, often valued at $1.05 or more, even with moderate wear.
Tips for Identifying Valuable Susan B. Anthony Dollars
While most Susan B. Anthony dollars might not make you rich, certain features can boost their value. Here’s what to watch for:
- Look for Errors: Minting mistakes, such as being struck on the wrong planchet, can add significant value. Check for anything unusual on the coin.
- Examine the Condition: Coins in mint or near-mint condition with crisp details and minimal wear are far more valuable.
- Spot the Wide Rim: The 1979-P with the wide rim is a sought-after variety, even in circulated condition.
Quick Tip
Many of the features that enhance a coin’s value can be hard to see with the naked eye. Use a magnifying glass for a closer inspection to spot subtle differences.
An Important Coin for History and Collectors
The Susan B. Anthony dollar isn’t just valuable for its monetary worth; it also holds historical significance as the first U.S. coin to feature a woman. Though its production was short-lived, this coin represents an important chapter in American minting history, making it a special collectible for enthusiasts and historians alike.
FAQs
1. What makes a Susan B. Anthony dollar valuable?
Errors, rarity, and condition significantly affect the value. Unique minting mistakes or coins in pristine condition can fetch thousands.
2. Are all Susan B. Anthony dollars worth more than face value?
No, most are worth only one dollar, but specific coins, like the 1979-P Wide Rim or error coins, can be much more valuable.
3. How can I identify a rare Susan B. Anthony dollar?
Look for features like wide rims, minting errors, or unusual colors. A magnifying glass can help spot these details.
4. Why are 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollars special?
As the first year of production, 1979 coins, especially those with errors or wide rims, are more sought after by collectors.