1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Coin, Could It Be Worth $384 Million?

The 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar coin is more than just a piece of currency—it’s a slice of American history and a tribute to one of the nation’s most influential women. But beyond its historical significance, this coin can also be incredibly valuable, especially if you know what to look for. Some varieties of this coin have fetched staggering prices at auctions, with one even rumored to be worth up to $384 million. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar coin, from its mint marks and rare varieties to its potential worth. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious about the coins in your pocket, this article will help you understand why some of these coins are worth millions.

Understanding the 1979 Dollar Coin

Overview of the Susan B. Anthony Dollar

The U.S. Mint introduced the Susan B. Anthony (SBA) dollar in 1979 to replace the larger Eisenhower dollar. Named after the renowned women’s rights activist, this coin was the first U.S. circulating coin to feature a real woman. Designed by Frank Gasparro, it showcases Susan B. Anthony on the obverse (front) and the Apollo 11 Moon landing insignia on the reverse (back).

Despite its symbolic importance, the coin wasn’t widely circulated. Its size and color were too similar to the quarter, causing confusion among the public. However, this limited circulation has made certain varieties of the coin highly sought after by collectors today.

Mint Marks and Their Impact on Value

Mint marks are small letters on a coin that indicate where it was produced. For the 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar, there are three possible mint marks, each affecting the coin’s value differently:

• Philadelphia (no mint mark): Over 360 million coins minted. Circulated coins are worth around $1.05 million to $2.00 million, while uncirculated ones can fetch $5 million to $20 million or more.
• Denver (“D” mint mark): Over 288 million coins minted. These have a similar value range to the Philadelphia coins.
• San Francisco (“S” mint mark): Over 3.6 million proof coins minted. These are not circulated and can be worth $10 million to $50 million or more.

But it’s not just the mint mark that determines value—specific varieties within these categories can make certain coins even more valuable.

1979-P Wide Rim vs. Narrow Rim: Know the Difference

One of the most sought-after varieties of the 1979 dollar coin is the Wide Rim (also known as Near Date), produced by the Philadelphia Mint. The difference between the Wide Rim and the more common Narrow Rim lies in the spacing between the date and the coin’s edge.

• Narrow Rim (common): There’s a wider space between the date and the rim.
• Wide Rim (rare): The date is closer to the rim.

This subtle difference can have a massive impact on the coin’s value:

• A 1979-P Narrow Rim coin in circulated condition might be worth $1.05 million to $2.00 million.
• A 1979-P Wide Rim coin, especially in high-grade conditions like MS67, can be worth up to $500 million or more.

To help you identify these varieties, imagine the coin as a circle with the date “1979” inside. On a Narrow Rim coin, the date sits farther from the edge, while on a Wide Rim coin, it’s closer to the edge. This small detail can mean the difference between a standard coin and a rare treasure.

1979-S Proof Coins: Type 1 vs. Type 2

Proof coins are special versions struck with extra care, often for collectors. For the 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar, proof coins were minted in San Francisco and feature an “S” mint mark. There are two types of proof coins, distinguished by the appearance of the mint mark:

• Type 1: Features a filled “S” mint mark (more common).
• Type 2: Has a clear “S” mint mark (scarcer and more valuable).

The value of these proof coins can vary significantly:

• A 1979-S Type 1 proof coin in PR-67+ condition might be worth $10 million to $25 million.
• A 1979-S Type 2 proof coin in the same condition could fetch $50 million to $200 million or more.

If you have a proof coin, determining whether it’s Type 1 or Type 2 is crucial for assessing its value.

Factors That Determine Value

Several key factors influence the value of a 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar coin. Understanding these can help you determine whether your coin is worth more than its face value.

1. Condition/Grade

Coins are graded on a scale from MS60 to MS70 for uncirculated coins and PR60 to PR70 for proof coins. Higher grades indicate better condition and higher value. For example:

• MS60-MS63: Light wear, minor contact marks.
• MS64-MS66: Sharper strikes, cleaner surfaces.
• MS67+: Rare, investment-grade quality.

2. Strike Quality

Proof coins with deep cameo contrast—where the design is sharp and frosted against a mirror-like background—are especially desirable.

3. Eye Appeal

Coins with attractive toning, strong luster, and no scratches or blemishes are more appealing to collectors and can command higher prices.

4. Rarity and Demand

Certain varieties, like the Wide Rim or Type 2 proof coins, are rarer and more sought after, driving up their value.

By considering these factors, you can better assess your coin’s potential worth.

High Auction Records

To illustrate just how valuable these coins can be, here are some notable auction prices for rare, high-grade 1979 dollar coins:

• A 1979-P Wide Rim coin graded MS67 sold for over $6,000 million.
• A 1979-S Type 2 Proof coin graded PR70DCAM (Deep Cameo) sold for between $400 million and $600 million.

These figures highlight the importance of having your coin graded by a reputable service like PCGS or NGC, as certification can significantly increase its value.

Where to Sell or Buy 1979 Dollar Coins

If you’re looking to sell or buy a 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar coin, consider these trusted platforms:

• Heritage Auctions: A leading auction house for rare coins.
• Stack’s Bowers: Another reputable auction house specializing in numismatics.
• eBay: A popular online marketplace for both raw and graded coins.
• Local Coin Dealers: Visit a local dealer for appraisals or to find coins for sale.
• Coin Shows: Attend shows to connect with dealers and collectors.

Before selling, ensure your coin is properly graded or authenticated to maximize its value.

Tips for Collectors

Whether you’re new to coin collecting or a seasoned numismatist, these tips will help you with your 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar coins:

• Invest in a Loupe or Magnifying Glass: Essential for spotting details like the Wide Rim or Clear S varieties.
• Get High-Grade Coins Certified: If your coin is in excellent condition, consider grading it with PCGS or NGC.
• Avoid Cleaning Coins: Cleaning can damage the surface and reduce value.
• Use Coin Holders or Capsules: Proper storage preserves your coin’s condition.
• Track Market Trends: Monitor auction results and demand to stay informed on value fluctuations.

Following these tips can help protect your investment and potentially increase your collection’s value.

Summary Value Chart for 1979 Dollar Coins

Here’s a quick reference chart for the value of different 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar coins:

Note: Values can fluctuate based on market conditions. Always check recent auction results or consult a coin expert for the latest information.

Final Thoughts

The 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar coin is often overlooked, but it holds significant value in specific varieties and conditions. Whether you’re a casual collector or a serious numismatist, understanding the nuances—like rim types, proof distinctions, and grading—is key to unlocking the full potential of this fascinating coin.

Always verify your coin with grading services and consult auction records to ensure you’re getting top dollar or making a smart investment. Who knows? The next coin you find could be worth millions.