Imagine rummaging through an old jewelry box only to discover a coin that could be worth far more than its face value. That’s exactly the thrill many collectors feel when they stumble upon a Susan B. Anthony Dollar, a coin often overlooked but filled with surprises. Could Grandma’s keepsake box be hiding a small fortune? Let’s find out.
The Unexpected Star: Susan B. Anthony Dollar
At first glance, the Susan B. Anthony (SBA) dollar might look like a quarter. Minted between 1979 and 1981, and briefly again in 1999, this coin was America’s first circulating dollar to feature a real woman. Despite its initial unpopularity, rare versions have become prized collectibles.
The Origins of the Coin
Introduced to honor women’s rights activist Susan B. Anthony, the coin replaced the larger Eisenhower dollar. Its smaller size was meant to make it more convenient, but it often confused people since it looked so similar to a quarter. This confusion led to its quick removal from circulation, making certain dates much rarer than others.
Why It’s Valuable Today
Collectors love the SBA dollar because of its low mintages, special varieties, and unique history. Some versions, like the 1979-P Wide Rim or the 1981-S Type 2 Proof, can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. What once seemed like pocket change can now be a hidden treasure.
Types of Susan B. Anthony Dollars to Look For
| Year / Mintmark | Special Feature | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1979-P Wide Rim | Date closer to rim | $50 – $1,500 |
| 1979-S Type 2 Proof | Clear “S” mintmark | $100 – $600 |
| 1980-S Proof | Popular with collectors | $10 – $50 |
| 1981-S Type 2 Proof | Scarce issue | $200 – $1,000+ |
| 1999-P or D | Final year mintage | $5 – $100 |
Hidden Gems Inside the Series
The 1979 Wide Rim is one of the most famous finds. Its date placement makes it instantly recognizable and more desirable. Meanwhile, the 1981 Proof versions were never released for circulation, making them especially scarce. These details turn an ordinary coin into a valuable collectible.
Notable Auction Surprises
- A 1979-P Wide Rim SBA dollar once sold for over $6,000 in pristine condition.
- Rare Proof strikes from 1981 consistently command four-figure prices.
- Even circulated coins can hold unexpected value if they belong to the right variety.
How to Check Your Susan B. Anthony Dollar
- Look closely at the rim — a wider date spacing signals a rarer 1979-P.
- Inspect the mintmark — clear “S” markings often mean higher value.
- Get coins graded — professional certification protects authenticity and boosts resale price.
Quick Guide: Common vs. Rare SBA Dollars
| Type | Common Value | Rare Value |
|---|---|---|
| Regular 1979 SBA Dollar | $1 | $2 – $5 |
| 1979-P Wide Rim | $50 | $1,500+ |
| 1981-S Type 2 Proof | $200 | $1,000+ |
| 1999 Circulation Strike | $1 | $50+ |
Expert Tips for Collectors
- Don’t dismiss Grandma’s coin box — older collections often hide overlooked SBA dollars.
- Check online marketplaces to compare recent sales.
- Store properly — air-tight holders prevent scratches and preserve value.
FAQs
Q: Are all Susan B. Anthony Dollars valuable?
A: No, most are worth only face value, but specific varieties can be worth hundreds or more.
Q: Can I still find them in circulation?
A: Rarely, but sometimes banks or old collections yield surprises.
Q: What’s the easiest way to identify a valuable one?
A: Focus on 1979-P Wide Rim and 1981 Proofs — they’re the top prize coins.
Conclusion: A Treasure Hiding in Plain Sight
The Susan B. Anthony dollar might not have been a hit in everyday use, but today it’s a collector’s dream. From the 1979 Wide Rim to the elusive 1981 Proofs, these coins prove that even the smallest discoveries can unlock hidden wealth. So next time you peek into a jewelry box or coin jar, remember — you might be holding a piece of American history worth far more than a dollar.