What if that old coin rattling in your drawer was worth nearly $900,000? Believe it or not, one version of the 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar carries a jaw-dropping value, and unsuspecting owners could be sitting on a life-changing treasure without even realizing it.
The Coin That Sparked a Frenzy
The Susan B. Anthony Dollar, first minted in 1979, was the first U.S. coin to honor a real woman. At first glance, it looks ordinary — silver-colored, small, and often mistaken for a quarter. But hidden among the millions produced, a few rare variations have turned everyday pocket change into collector’s gold.
How This Coin Came to Be
The coin was introduced as part of an effort to replace the bulky Eisenhower dollar. Featuring women’s rights icon Susan B. Anthony, it carried historic significance. However, the public disliked its similarity in size to the quarter, and production was halted after 1981, with a brief revival in 1999. That short run created fertile ground for minting errors and rare varieties that are worth big money today.
Key Minting Years of the Susan B. Anthony Dollar
| Year Minted | Notes Produced | Collector Interest |
|---|---|---|
| 1979 | First year, most common | High (error coins) |
| 1980 | Limited run | Moderate |
| 1981 | Mint sets only | High |
| 1999 | Special reissue | High |
Why One Coin Reached $891,000
Not every 1979 dollar is valuable. The coin that sold for nearly $891,000 was a rare minting error known as a “Wide Rim” or “Near Date” variety. In this version, the coin’s rim is thicker and closer to the numbers in the date. Combined with pristine condition and a perfect grade, collectors battled fiercely to own it. That intense demand pushed the auction price into six figures.
How to Spot a Valuable 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Look closely — the difference could mean hundreds of thousands.
- Check the Rim – If the date is very close to the edge (Wide Rim), you may have a treasure.
- Inspect the Mint Mark – Coins minted in Philadelphia (no mark), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S) can have different values.
- Condition Matters – Uncirculated, graded coins fetch far more than worn ones.
Value Estimates for 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollars
| Type/Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Common Circulated | $1 – $5 |
| 1979 Wide Rim, Fine | $50 – $500 |
| 1979 Wide Rim, Mint | $5,000 – $10,000+ |
| Rare Error, Perfect Grade | Up to $891,000 |
Amazing Facts About the Coin
- It was the first U.S. coin to feature a woman other than Lady Liberty.
- Collectors call it the “coin that flopped” because of its short production.
- A small fraction of 1979 coins are Wide Rim varieties, making them true rarities.
Expert Tips for Collectors
- Don’t Clean the Coin — Cleaning lowers its value dramatically.
- Use Professional Grading — A certification from PCGS or NGC proves authenticity.
- Store Safely — Keep in a holder to avoid scratches or tarnish.
FAQs
Q: Can I find a valuable 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar in circulation today?
A: Yes, though rare, they still appear in pocket change or bank rolls.
Q: What makes the Wide Rim version so special?
A: Its unique minting variation and rarity drive up demand and price.
Q: Is every 1979 dollar valuable?
A: No, most are worth just face value unless they’re a Wide Rim or error variety.
Conclusion: Your Spare Change Could Be Life-Changing
The 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar worth $891,000 proves that everyday coins can hide extraordinary value. Next time you get change at the store, take a closer look — because your humble dollar might just be a hidden fortune waiting to be discovered.
