Coins are more than just loose change—they’re pieces of American history. In some rare cases, they can also be worth a fortune. One such example is the 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar, which could fetch up to $880,000 if you’re lucky enough to find the right one. Yes, it’s true: one of the rarest dollar coins might still be hiding in your pocket change today.
Introducing the Susan B. Anthony Dollar
The Susan B. Anthony dollar coin was introduced in 1979 to honor the iconic women’s rights activist. It was the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman, marking a milestone in numismatic history. Minted in 1979, 1980, 1981, and briefly in 1999, the coin had a short production life and was often mistaken for a quarter due to its size and color.
Why the 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Stands Out
Most Susan B. Anthony dollars are only worth their face value. However, a special variety from 1981, minted in Philadelphia with no mintmark, is a standout due to a rare minting mistake: the double die reverse.
This error causes parts of the reverse design—like the words “ONE DOLLAR” or the eagle’s wings—to appear slightly doubled. It’s a subtle detail, but collectors know how rare and valuable this error can be.
How to Identify the $880,000 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
If you’re hoping to find this rare and valuable coin, here are the key features to check:
- Year: The coin must be dated 1981.
- Mintmark: Look for no mintmark (Philadelphia issue).
- Error: Inspect the reverse side for doubling in the text or design.
- Condition: Coins in uncirculated or mint condition are worth significantly more.
Using a magnifying glass or a high-resolution photo is recommended, as the doubling can be difficult to see with the naked eye.
What Makes This Coin So Valuable?
The double die reverse error on the 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar is exceptionally rare. Only a limited number were ever struck this way, and many have likely been lost or spent unknowingly over the years.
Because of its scarcity, this coin has fetched hundreds of thousands of dollars at auction, with some top-condition examples valued at an estimated $880,000.
What to Do If You Think You’ve Found One
If you come across a 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar that seems unusual, take these steps:
- Don’t clean it. Cleaning a coin can ruin its numismatic value.
- Examine the reverse side for signs of doubling.
- Get the coin authenticated and graded by a reputable service like PCGS or NGC.
- Consult a professional coin dealer to explore your selling options.
Even if it’s not the ultra-rare variety, some Susan B. Anthony dollars can still be worth more than their face value to the right collector.
The Everyday Coin That Could Change Your Life
Most people overlook coins they receive in change, but this story proves why it’s worth taking a second look. The $880,000 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar shows that hidden treasures can be found in the most unexpected places—like the bottom of your purse or a coin jar on your shelf.
More Than Just Currency
This coin is more than a collectible—it’s a symbol of women’s history, a testament to rare minting errors, and a reminder that you never know what valuable surprise might be right under your nose.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the Susan B. Anthony dollar?
A: It’s a U.S. dollar coin minted in 1979, 1980, 1981, and 1999, honoring Susan B. Anthony, a key leader in the women’s suffrage movement. It was the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman.
Q2: Why is the 1981 version so valuable?
A: Some 1981 dollars from the Philadelphia Mint were struck with a double die reverse error, making them extremely rare and valuable to collectors.
Q3: What’s a double die error?
A: It’s a minting mistake where part of the coin’s design is stamped twice, creating a shadow-like or doubled appearance on text or images.
Q4: How can I tell if my coin is valuable?
A: Look for a 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar with no mintmark and examine the reverse for any signs of doubling. If in doubt, have the coin reviewed by a professional grading service.
Final Thoughts
Every coin has a story, and some have a hidden value that could change your life. The 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar with the double die error is one of those rare treasures. So next time you get change, take a closer look—you might just be holding a fortune.