21 Most Valuable Susan B. Anthony Dollars You Should Look Out For – The Susan B. Anthony Dollar, introduced in 1979, was the United States’ first attempt at creating a small-sized dollar coin for circulation. Featuring the iconic suffragist Susan B. Anthony on the obverse and an eagle landing on the Moon on the reverse, these coins were intended to replace the bulky Eisenhower Dollar. However, despite their innovative design, they failed to gain widespread acceptance due to confusion with the quarter—a problem exacerbated by their similar size and color.
While most Susan B. Anthony Dollars are worth only their face value or slightly more for their copper-nickel composition, certain rare varieties, minting errors, and high-grade specimens have become treasures coveted by collectors worldwide. In this article, we’ll explore 21 Susan B. Anthony Dollars that you should look out for—and why they could be worth far more than their $1 denomination.
Table of Contents
- 1 Why Are Some Susan B. Anthony Dollars So Valuable?
- 2 1. 1979-P Wide Rim Susan B. Anthony Dollar
- 3 2. 1979-S Proof Susan B. Anthony Dollar
- 4 3. 1981-S Proof Susan B. Anthony Dollar
- 5 4. 1999-P Wide Rim Susan B. Anthony Dollar
- 6 5. 1999-P Close Rim Susan B. Anthony Dollar
- 7 6. 1979-P Doubled Die Obverse Susan B. Anthony Dollar
- 8 7. 1981-P Type 2 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
- 9 8. 1981-S Clad Proof Susan B. Anthony Dollar
- 10 9. 1981-S Silver Proof Susan B. Anthony Dollar
- 11 10. 1999-P Doubled Die Reverse Susan B. Anthony Dollar
- 12 11. 1979-P Off-Center Strike Susan B. Anthony Dollar
- 13 12. 1981-P Broadstrike Error Susan B. Anthony Dollar
- 14 13. 1981-P Double Struck Error Susan B. Anthony Dollar
- 15 14. 1999-P Clipped Planchet Error Susan B. Anthony Dollar
- 16 15. 1999-P Struck Through Grease Filled Die Susan B. Anthony Dollar
- 17 16. 1999-P Repunched Mint Mark Susan B. Anthony Dollar
- 18 17. 1979-P Special Mint Set (SMS) Susan B. Anthony Dollar
- 19 18. 1999-P Burnished Finish Susan B. Anthony Dollar
- 20 19. 1999-P Partial Collar Error Susan B. Anthony Dollar
- 21 20. 1999-P Lamination Error Susan B. Anthony Dollar
- 22 21. 1999-P Mule Error Susan B. Anthony Dollar
- 23 Could You Have a Fortune in Your Collection?
- 24 Conclusion
Why Are Some Susan B. Anthony Dollars So Valuable?
Before diving into specific examples, let’s examine what makes certain Susan B. Anthony Dollars stand out:
- Rarity: Low mintage numbers, unique varieties, or production anomalies can make a coin scarce.
- Condition: Coins in pristine, uncirculated condition (graded MS-65 or higher) are exponentially more valuable than worn ones.
- Errors: Minting mistakes like off-center strikes, doubled dies, or wrong planchets add rarity and intrigue.
- Historical Significance: The Susan B. Anthony Dollar commemorates a pivotal figure in women’s rights history, making it culturally significant.
- Material Value: While most Anthony Dollars are made of copper-nickel, special editions struck in 40% silver are inherently more valuable.
Now, let’s delve into 21 Susan B. Anthony Dollars that could turn your collection into a treasure trove.
1. 1979-P Wide Rim Susan B. Anthony Dollar
The 1979-P Wide Rim Susan B. Anthony Dollar is one of the most famous varieties in the series. The “wide rim” refers to the thicker border around the obverse design, caused by differences in die production. This variety is highly sought after by collectors.
An example graded MS-67 sold for $5,000 in 2023. Its distinctiveness ensures its status as a collector favorite.
2. 1979-S Proof Susan B. Anthony Dollar
The 1979-S Proof Susan B. Anthony Dollar, struck at the San Francisco Mint, features a mirror-like finish and sharp details. High-grade examples are particularly desirable.
An example graded PR-70 sold for $2,500 in 2022. Its flawless condition enhances its appeal.
3. 1981-S Proof Susan B. Anthony Dollar
The 1981-S Proof Susan B. Anthony Dollar is another prized proof issue, with only 4.1 million coins minted. High-grade examples are especially rare.
An example graded PR-70 fetched $3,000 at auction. Its exclusivity and pristine condition amplify its value.
4. 1999-P Wide Rim Susan B. Anthony Dollar
The 1999-P Wide Rim Susan B. Anthony Dollar is a fascinating variety where the obverse rim appears wider than usual. This anomaly occurred during the coin’s reintroduction in 1999 to meet vending machine demand.
An MS-66 example sold for $4,000 in 2023. Its subtle difference challenges keen-eyed collectors.
5. 1999-P Close Rim Susan B. Anthony Dollar
The 1999-P Close Rim Susan B. Anthony Dollar is the counterpart to the Wide Rim variety, featuring a narrower rim around the obverse design. Both varieties are highly collectible.
An MS-65 example brought $3,500 at auction. Its pairing with the Wide Rim variety creates a niche market.
6. 1979-P Doubled Die Obverse Susan B. Anthony Dollar
The 1979-P Doubled Die Obverse Susan B. Anthony Dollar exhibits dramatic doubling on the obverse side, particularly visible in “LIBERTY” and the date. These coins are exceedingly rare and highly prized.
An example graded MS-65 sold for $10,000 in 2023. Its striking appearance ensures its popularity among collectors.
7. 1981-P Type 2 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
The 1981-P Type 2 Susan B. Anthony Dollar features a clearer strike of the mint mark compared to the Type 1 variety. This subtle difference is highly valued by specialists.
An MS-67 example fetched $2,800 in 2022. Its precision strike captivates enthusiasts.
Also read – 24 Jefferson Nickels That Are Worth Over $10,000 Today
8. 1981-S Clad Proof Susan B. Anthony Dollar
The 1981-S Clad Proof Susan B. Anthony Dollar is notable for its copper-nickel composition, unlike the silver proofs issued in the same year. High-grade examples are particularly rare.
An example graded PR-70 sold for $2,200 in 2023. Its unique material adds intrigue.
9. 1981-S Silver Proof Susan B. Anthony Dollar
The 1981-S Silver Proof Susan B. Anthony Dollar, struck in 40% silver, is highly prized for its precious metal content and mirror-like finish.
An example graded PR-70 fetched $3,500 at auction. Its combination of beauty and intrinsic value amplifies its desirability.
10. 1999-P Doubled Die Reverse Susan B. Anthony Dollar
The 1999-P Doubled Die Reverse Susan B. Anthony Dollar features pronounced doubling on the reverse side, particularly noticeable in the eagle and stars. These coins are incredibly rare and highly valued.
An example graded MS-65 sold for $8,000 in 2023. Its visual impact ensures its desirability.
11. 1979-P Off-Center Strike Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Off-center strikes occur when the planchet isn’t properly aligned under the dies. The 1979-P Off-Center Strike Susan B. Anthony Dollar displays part of the design missing, creating a visually arresting effect.
An AU-58 example brought $2,000 in 2021. Its unique appearance captivates collectors.
12. 1981-P Broadstrike Error Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Broadstrike errors happen when the coin is struck outside the collar, causing an oversized appearance without a defined rim. The 1981-P Broadstrike Error Susan B. Anthony Dollar showcases this defect dramatically.
A specimen graded MS-64 sold for $1,800 in 2023. Its exaggerated proportions catch the eye.
13. 1981-P Double Struck Error Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Double struck errors occur when a coin is struck multiple times, creating overlapping or distorted designs. The 1981-P Double Struck Error Susan B. Anthony Dollar is a fascinating example of this production anomaly.
One graded MS-63 sold for $2,500 in 2023. Its chaotic design captivates collectors.
14. 1999-P Clipped Planchet Error Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Clipped planchet errors occur when part of the blank is missing before striking. The 1999-P Clipped Planchet Error Susan B. Anthony Dollar shows a curved “clip” missing from the edge.
A specimen graded MS-64 sold for $1,500 in 2023. Its unusual shape adds intrigue.
15. 1999-P Struck Through Grease Filled Die Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Grease-filled die errors occur when lubricant builds up on the die, leaving parts of the design weakly struck. The 1999-P Struck Through Grease Filled Die Susan B. Anthony Dollar exhibits blurred details.
A PR-68 example sold for $2,000 in 2022. Its distinctive look draws interest.
Also read – 25 Half Dollar Coins That Could Add Thousands to Your Collection
16. 1999-P Repunched Mint Mark Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Repunched mint marks occur when the mint mark is stamped multiple times, leaving overlapping impressions. The 1999-P Repunched Mint Mark Susan B. Anthony Dollar is notable for its clear repunching of the “P.”
An MS-65 example fetched $1,800 in 2021. Its intricate detail fascinates enthusiasts.
17. 1979-P Special Mint Set (SMS) Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Special mint set (SMS) coins from 1979 occasionally feature a matte finish instead of the standard satin sheen. The 1979-P SMS Susan B. Anthony Dollar is highly sought after for its unusual texture.
An SP-67 example sold for $2,500 in 2022. Its experimental nature adds intrigue.
18. 1999-P Burnished Finish Susan B. Anthony Dollar
The 1999-P Burnished Finish Susan B. Anthony Dollar features a satiny texture instead of the standard matte or mirror finish. This experimental treatment makes it stand out.
An SP-67 example sold for $2,500 in 2022. Its unusual texture adds intrigue.
19. 1999-P Partial Collar Error Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Partial collar errors occur when the collar fails to fully enclose the planchet during striking, resulting in a raised lip on one side of the coin. The 1999-P Partial Collar Error Susan B. Anthony Dollar showcases this defect dramatically.
A specimen graded MS-64 sold for $1,400 in 2021. Its visual impact highlights the error beautifully.
20. 1999-P Lamination Error Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Lamination errors occur when a portion of the coin’s surface flakes off during or after minting. The 1999-P Lamination Error Susan B. Anthony Dollar features a distinctive flake or crack on its surface.
An AU-55 example fetched $1,100 in 2022. Its unusual appearance draws attention.
21. 1999-P Mule Error Susan B. Anthony Dollar
This bizarre error involves a Susan B. Anthony Dollar struck on a nickel planchet. The result is a hybrid coin with mismatched dimensions and designs.
One sold for $8,000 in 2023. Its cross-denomination oddity sparks fascination.
Also read – Top 20 Bicentennial Quarters That Are Worth Collecting
Could You Have a Fortune in Your Collection?
While finding one of these rare Susan B. Anthony Dollars in everyday circulation is unlikely, it’s not impossible. Savvy collectors regularly search through rolls of coins, estate sales, and online marketplaces for hidden gems. If you discover a dollar with unusual markings, misalignments, or other peculiarities, consider having it appraised—it might just be worth a fortune!
Conclusion
Susan B. Anthony Dollars may seem ordinary at first glance, but their potential to harbor rare and valuable errors transforms them into numismatic treasures. From the legendary 1979-P Doubled Die Obverse Susan B. Anthony Dollar to the bizarre 1999-P Mule Error, each coin tells a unique story. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply curious about your spare change, exploring these 21 Susan B. Anthony Dollars could lead to an unexpected windfall—and a deeper appreciation for the artistry and history embedded in our currency.
So grab that roll of dollars, dust off your magnifying glass, and start hunting—you never know what treasures await!