The Susan B. Anthony dollar is often mistaken for an ordinary coin, tossed aside as spare change. Minted between 1979 and 1981, with a final release in 1999, these small, silver-colored coins may look unassuming — but some are incredibly valuable.
Collectors know that the real worth of a coin lies in its details. From rare minting errors to special varieties, a few SBA dollars are worth hundreds — even thousands — of dollars. Here are seven rare Susan B. Anthony dollars you should be on the lookout for.
1. 1979-P Wide Rim (Near Date)
This is one of the most well-known rare Susan B. Anthony dollars. The 1979-P Wide Rim, also called the “Near Date” variety, features a date positioned much closer to the rim than usual. It was a limited early production and remains highly sought after.
What it’s worth:
Depending on the condition, this coin can fetch between $50 and $600 or more.
How to spot it:
Compare the space between the date and the rim. If the date is unusually close, you might have a valuable coin.
2. 1981-S Proof Type 2 (Clear “S”)
In 1981, the San Francisco Mint released two versions of the “S” mintmark on proof coins. Type 2 has a sharp, clear mintmark, while Type 1 is more blurred. Type 2 is much rarer and only appears in limited proof sets.
What it’s worth:
Prices range from $250 to over $1,500 depending on condition and grade.
Where to find it:
Sometimes found in broken proof sets or mistakenly released into circulation.
3. 1999-P Near Date Variety
When production resumed briefly in 1999, some Philadelphia-minted coins showed a Wide Rim style similar to the 1979 variety. Although not as well-known, this version is gaining attention among collectors.
What it’s worth:
Can sell for $10 to $50 in circulated condition, and more if uncirculated.
Collector’s tip:
This is a sleeper coin. It’s often overlooked, making it a good find for savvy collectors.
4. 1979-S Proof Type 2 (Clear “S”)
Similar to the 1981 variety, the 1979-S also came with two mintmark types. Type 2 features a crisp, well-defined “S”, making it more desirable.
What it’s worth:
These coins often sell for $50 to $250 or more, especially in higher grades.
Common mistake:
Many confuse Type 1 and Type 2. A magnifying glass helps with accurate identification.
5. 1980-S Proof Dollar
Although it lacks notable errors, the 1980-S proof dollar is still valuable in perfect condition. High-grade examples with flawless finishes are highly collectible.
What it’s worth:
Proofs graded PR70 have sold for over $500.
Why it matters:
Proof coins weren’t meant for circulation, so finding one in pristine condition is rare.
6. 1979-D Overstrike Error
Overstrike errors happen when a coin is struck more than once, often misaligned. A few 1979-D SBA dollars with overstrike or double strike errors have surfaced, and they are extremely valuable due to their rarity.
What it’s worth:
Values can reach $1,000 or more, depending on the type and clarity of the error.
What to look for:
Watch for misalignment, ghosted images, or off-center designs.
7. Off-Metal Strikes and Wrong Planchets
These are some of the rarest Susan B. Anthony dollars — coins struck on the wrong metal blank, like a planchet meant for a nickel or quarter. These minting errors are extremely uncommon but highly desirable.
What it’s worth:
Depending on the error, these coins have sold for anywhere between $2,000 and $15,000 at auction.
How to check:
Weigh the coin — if it’s significantly lighter or heavier than expected, you may be holding a valuable off-metal strike.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Dismiss the Dollar
It’s easy to overlook a Susan B. Anthony dollar as everyday change, but the truth is, some of these coins are worth far more than a dollar. Whether it’s a Wide Rim, a rare proof, or an unusual minting error, these small coins can pack a big punch in value.
If you’ve got old coins lying around or receive a dollar coin in change, take a closer look. That seemingly ordinary coin might just be a hidden treasure.
Also read: He Used This Kennedy Half Dollar as a Paperweight — Until a Collector Offered $1 Million