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Could the loose change in your pocket be worth nearly a million dollars? It might sound unbelievable, but a rare 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar recently sold for a staggering $891,000 at auction. This shocking sale has left collectors buzzing and casual coin holders rushing to check their wallets and coin jars.
The Susan B. Anthony Dollar was first minted to honor the pioneering women’s rights activist. Featuring her portrait on the front and an eagle landing on the moon on the reverse, it was America’s first circulating coin to depict a real woman instead of a symbolic figure like Lady Liberty. While most of these coins are worth no more than a dollar today, a select few carry unique features that make them incredibly valuable. Let’s dive into what makes these coins so special and how you might recognize one.
Why Some 1979 Dollars Are Rare
The Susan B. Anthony Dollar was issued between 1979 and 1981, with a one-year return in 1999. The very first year, however, is where the real treasures lie. That’s because of minting quirks and limited runs that created unusual varieties.
The headline-making $891,000 coin was a 1979-P “Wide Rim” (or “Near Date”) variety. On this version, the rim around the date is noticeably thicker than usual, causing the numbers to appear closer to the coin’s edge. Only a small number of these were struck before the U.S. Mint corrected the design, making them extremely scarce.
Collectors prize these coins even more if they are in pristine, uncirculated condition. High-grade examples those certified at MS-67 or above by respected grading services like PCGS or NGC are where the real money lies. Add in any unique mint marks, proof versions, or dramatic minting errors, and the value skyrockets.
How to Spot a Valuable 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
If you have a Susan B. Anthony Dollar, here are the key things to look for:
- Wide Rim (Near Date): A noticeably thicker rim with the date positioned close to the edge.
- Mint Mark: A small letter beneath Susan B. Anthony’s portrait. A “P” (Philadelphia) is the most valuable for the Wide Rim variety.
- Condition: Coins free of scratches, wear, or discoloration are worth significantly more.
- Errors: Look for doubled text, off-center strikes, or unusual patterns using a magnifying glass.
- Proof Coins: Special collector versions minted in San Francisco often carry an “S” mint mark and can fetch hundreds to thousands.
Here’s a quick value snapshot:
| Coin Type | Key Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1979-P Wide Rim | Thick rim near date | $10,000 – $891,000 |
| 1979-S Proof | Clear “S” mint mark | $500 – $5,000 |
Factors like uncirculated condition or rare errors can increase prices by thousands or even hundreds of thousands.
Where to Find Them
The beauty of the Susan B. Anthony Dollar is that it was released for everyday use, so these coins are still floating around. You might spot one in your pocket change, in a bank roll, or tucked away in an old family collection.
One collector even reported finding a Wide Rim variety in a vending machine, which later sold for $15,000. Flea markets, estate sales, and inherited coin jars are also worth a closer look.
A key tip: never clean a coin. Cleaning can scratch the surface and dramatically reduce its value. Instead, if you suspect you have a special piece, take it to a reputable dealer or submit it for grading with PCGS or NGC.
Tips for Selling
If you do stumble across a potentially valuable Susan B. Anthony Dollar, patience and professionalism are your best tools. Have it authenticated and graded by a recognized service this is what gave the record-breaking coin its credibility and high price.
Research recent sales online through auction sites like Heritage Auctions or eBay, but beware of counterfeits and misleading listings. For high-value coins, established auction houses or trusted dealers are usually the safest route.
The Excitement of the Hunt
The thought of a humble dollar coin being worth nearly a million dollars is thrilling. While the odds are slim, the 1979-P Wide Rim proves it’s possible. These coins are not only potential jackpots but also a tangible piece of American history, tied to a pivotal era in the fight for gender equality.
So next time you get change from the store, don’t dismiss that Susan B. Anthony Dollar too quickly. With a sharp eye and a little luck, you might discover that your pocket change is worth a fortune.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. Coin values fluctuate depending on condition, rarity, and market demand. Always consult with a certified coin dealer or grading service before buying, selling, or appraising collectible coins.