A Coin Once Ignored, Now Highly Sought After
Most people overlook the Susan B. Anthony dollar, but a rare version of this coin has recently made headlines for being valued at an astonishing $1.5 million. What’s even more exciting? There’s a chance it could still be hiding in everyday circulation—perhaps in your spare change, a vending machine, or an old coin collection.
Why Was the Susan B. Anthony Dollar Unpopular?
Introduced in 1979, the Susan B. Anthony dollar was the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman—women’s rights activist Susan B. Anthony—instead of a symbolic figure like Lady Liberty. Despite its historic significance, the coin was a flop.
- Confusing Design: Its size and color were too similar to the quarter, leading to frequent mix-ups.
- Short Circulation: The U.S. Mint stopped production after 1981, though a small batch was made again in 1999 for vending machines.
Now, decades later, a rare misprint has turned this once-dismissed coin into a numismatic treasure.
The $1.5 Million Error Coin
Not all Susan B. Anthony dollars are valuable, but a specific 1979-P “Wide Rim” or “Near Date” variety with a double-die obverse (DDO) error can be worth a fortune.
What Makes This Coin So Valuable?
Feature Why It Matters 1979-P Wide Rim The date is positioned closer to the rim than usual. Double-Die Obverse (DDO) The inscriptions (“IN GOD WE TRUST”) and Susan B. Anthony’s profile appear doubled. Mint Condition (MS-68+) Minimal wear and high preservation increase value dramatically.
Only a handful of these coins are known to exist, making them exceptionally rare. One sold in a private sale last year for $1.5 million, sparking renewed interest among collectors.
Could You Have One in Your Pocket?
Experts believe more of these coins could still be in circulation. Since millions were minted and few people paid attention at the time, some might still be lurking in piggy banks, jars, or even old payphone returns.
How to Spot a Valuable Susan B. Anthony Dollar
- Check the Date – Look for the 1979-P Wide Rim variety.
- Look for Doubling – Inspect the lettering and portrait for signs of a double stamp.
- Assess Condition – Uncirculated coins with no scratches or wear are worth the most.
If you find one, consider getting it professionally graded by PCGS or NGC to confirm its authenticity and value.
Final Thought: Check Your Change!
Most Susan B. Anthony dollars are still worth just $1, but the right error coin could be a life-changing find. So before you spend that odd-looking dollar, take a closer look—you might be holding a hidden fortune.
FAQs About the Rare Susan B. Anthony Dollar
1. How do I know if my 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar is valuable?
Look for:
- “Wide Rim” (date closer to the edge)
- Doubled lettering (especially “IN GOD WE TRUST”)
- Mint condition (no scratches or wear)
2. Where could a rare Susan B. Anthony dollar be hiding?
- Old coin collections
- Vending machine returns
- Spare change jars
- Inherited collections
3. What’s the difference between a regular 1979 dollar and the $1.5 million version?
The $1.5 million coin has:
- A wide rim near the date
- A clear double-struck design
- Near-perfect condition (MS-68 or higher)
4. How much is a normal Susan B. Anthony dollar worth?
Most are worth face value ($1), but some uncirculated or error coins can sell for $5 to $100+.
5. Should I get my coin professionally graded?
If you suspect it’s a rare variety, yes! Companies like PCGS or NGC can authenticate and grade it, increasing its value.
Keep an eye out—your next coin could be worth a fortune! 💰