The 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Coin holds a fascinating place in American numismatic history. Although the coin was initially criticized for its size and similarity to a quarter, it has since become a prized collector’s item. In rare cases, certain variants of this coin have fetched prices over $384,000 at auction. This article dives into the history, specifications, and most valuable versions of the 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar—and how to identify if you have a rare one.
Historical Background
Introduced in 1979, the Susan B. Anthony Dollar was the first U.S. coin to depict a real woman rather than a symbolic figure. It honored Susan B. Anthony, a prominent advocate for women’s rights and the suffrage movement. Although production ended in 1981 and briefly resumed in 1999, the coin’s historical significance and design continue to attract collectors.
Coin Specifications
- Designer: Frank Gasparro
- Composition: 91.67% copper, 8.33% nickel
- Diameter: 26.5 mm
- Weight: 8.1 grams
- Years Minted: 1979–1981, 1999
Despite its short production life, the Susan B. Anthony Dollar remains one of the most recognizable U.S. coins.
Identifying the Valuable Versions
Certain versions of the 1979 dollar are worth significantly more than their face value due to mint marks, limited runs, and minting errors.
Key Mint Marks and Values
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- 1979-P (Philadelphia)
- Total Minted: ~360 million
- Circulated Value: $1.05 – $5
- MS67+ Grade: Up to $250
- Rare Variant: Wide Rim / Near Date – Value: $500 – $2,000+
- 1979-D (Denver)
- Total Minted: ~288 million
- Circulated Value: $1.05 – $3
- MS67+ Grade: Up to $500
- 1979-S (San Francisco – Proof)
- Total Minted: ~3.7 million
- Type 1 (Blurry ‘S’): $10 – $25
- Type 2 (Clear ‘S’): $30 – $250
- Deep Cameo PR70: $1,000+
Rare and Valuable Varieties
1. Wide Rim / Near Date (1979-P)
This variety shows the date positioned closer to the edge due to a wider rim. It is rare and highly collectible.
2. Type 2 Proof (Clear ‘S’)
San Francisco proofs with a sharply defined “S” mintmark (Type 2) are rarer than the more common Type 1, making them more valuable.
Grading and Auction Prices
Coin value is heavily influenced by its grade, especially those certified by top grading agencies like PCGS and NGC.
Common Grades & Descriptions:
- AU-50: Almost Uncirculated
- MS-60: Uncirculated with marks
- MS-65: Strong luster, few marks
- MS-67+: Near-perfect condition (premium pricing)
- PR70 DCAM: Perfect Proof with deep cameo contrast
Recent Auction Highlights:
Rare 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Coin Could Be Worth Over $384,000 – Check Yours Today!
- 1979-P Wide Rim (MS67): Sold for $1,527 in 2007
- 1979-S Type 2 Proof (PR70): Sold for $1,000+ in 2022
- 1979-D MS68: Sold for $2,250 in 2016
- Error coins with dramatic mistakes: Up to $384,000
How to Identify a Rare 1979 Dollar Coin
Use this quick checklist to see if your coin could be valuable:
- Mint Mark: Look under the date for “P”, “D”, or “S”.
- Wide Rim/Near Date: The spacing between the date and rim is much tighter than usual.
- Type 2 Proof: A clear, sharp “S” indicates the rarer proof version.
- Grading: Coins graded MS67 or above are much more valuable.
Valuable Minting Errors to Watch For
Certain mint errors dramatically increase a coin’s value. Be on the lookout for:
- Off-Center Strikes
- Double Dies
- Wrong Planchet Errors
- Clipped Planchets
Some of these error coins have sold for $10,000 to over $384,000, depending on rarity and condition.
Investing in the Susan B. Anthony Dollar
If you’re considering collecting or investing in these coins, follow these tips:
- Use Proper Storage: Keep coins in protective holders or graded slabs.
- Seek Certification: Only purchase coins certified by PCGS, NGC, or ANACS.
- Track Market Trends: Coin values fluctuate, so keep up with current prices.
- Diversify Your Collection: Focus on Wide Rim, Type 2 Proofs, and rare errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are all 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollars valuable?
A: No. Most are only worth face value unless they are rare varieties, in exceptional condition, or feature mint errors.
Q: How do I get my coin professionally graded?
A: You can submit your coin to services like PCGS or NGC. Fees usually range from $20 to $50 depending on the level of service.
Q: What’s the best way to sell a rare coin?
A: Consider auction houses, coin dealers, or online platforms like eBay—preferably with certified grading.
Conclusion: A Hidden Treasure in Your Change Jar
The 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Coin may not seem special at first glance, but some of its rare variants are true treasures. Whether it’s a Wide Rim version, a pristine Type 2 Proof, or an ultra-rare mint error, this coin has the potential to be worth thousands—or even hundreds of thousands—of dollars. So go ahead, check your coin jar. You might be holding a small fortune in your hands.