Ever come across a Susan B. Anthony dollar in your change? Most of these coins, minted from 1979 to 1981 and again in 1999, are worth just a buck. But a few rare ones could make you rich, with some valued at over $500,000. These small, silver-colored coins honor the famous women’s rights leader, and certain versions are a goldmine for collectors. Here’s how to spot one and what makes them so special.
Why Susan B. Anthony Dollars Are Unique
The Susan B. Anthony dollar was the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman, a key figure in the fight for women’s voting rights. Its small size and silver look made it easy to mix up with quarters, so it wasn’t popular and stopped being made for general use after 1981. Rare varieties, like those with minting errors or special dates, are what collectors chase. These can turn a single dollar into a fortune if you know what to look for.
Rare Varieties to Hunt For
Some Susan B. Anthony dollars stand out because of unique features:
- 1979-P Wide Rim (Near Date): The date is closer to the rim than usual, making it look bold. These can sell for $15,000 to $50,000 in top condition.
- 1981-P Clear S Mint Mark: A few 1981 coins from Philadelphia have a sharp “S” mint mark, meant for San Francisco. These are worth up to $500,000.
- 1979-S Type 2 Proof: This proof coin has a clear “S” mint mark, unlike the blurry Type 1. It can fetch $10,000 or more.
- 1999-P Proof Strike: A small number of 1999 coins were accidentally made as proofs, with a shiny finish. These can go for $20,000 to $100,000.
| Coin Variety | Year | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1979-P Wide Rim | 1979 | $15,000–$50,000 |
| 1981-P Clear S | 1981 | Up to $500,000 |
How to Spot a Valuable Coin
To find a rare Susan B. Anthony dollar, grab a magnifying glass and check these details:
- Look at the date and mint mark: The mint mark is a small letter (P, D, or S) near Anthony’s shoulder. A clear “S” on a 1981-P or a wide rim on a 1979-P is a big clue.
- Check the finish: Proof coins are shiny and mirror-like, unlike regular coins. A 1999-P proof is super rare.
- Inspect the condition: Coins with no scratches or wear are worth more. Handle them carefully to keep them pristine.
- Compare the rim: For 1979-P coins, a wider rim near the date is a key sign of value.
| Feature to Check | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Clear S Mint Mark | Rare on 1981-P coins |
| Proof Finish | Boosts value, especially 1999-P |
What to Do If You Find One
If you think you’ve got a rare Susan B. Anthony dollar, don’t spend it. Store it in a clean, dry holder to protect it. Take it to a professional coin grader like PCGS or NGC to confirm its authenticity and condition. They’ll give it a grade, which can boost its value. You can sell through auction houses like Stack’s Bowers, online platforms like eBay, or local coin dealers. One 1981-P Clear S coin sold for $525,000 recently, showing the huge potential.
Start Your Treasure Hunt
Susan B. Anthony dollars are still out there, hiding in change jars, old wallets, or coin collections. With collectors paying top dollar for rare varieties, it’s worth checking any you find. The 1981-P Clear S or 1999-P proof could be your ticket to a big payday. So, dig through your coins and look closely. You might just have a half-million-dollar treasure waiting to be discovered.