1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Coin : The 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar is one of the most intriguing coins in U.S. numismatic history. While it was initially considered a commercial failure due to its similarity in size and color to a quarter, it has since garnered immense interest among collectors. Some rare variants of the coin have fetched significant sums at auctions. We present a detailed exploration of the 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar coin value, varieties, historical background, grading, and what makes specific issues extremely valuable—some reportedly worth over $384,000 and beyond.
Historical Overview of the 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
The 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar holds a unique place in U.S. coinage history. While most coins trade at modest values, rare varieties, pristine grades, and striking errors can command thousands—even hundreds of thousands—at auction. Collectors and investors should pay close attention to mintmarks, design nuances, and grading to identify high-value specimens in the wild or among inherited collections.
Invest wisely, and you might just uncover a $384,000 treasure hiding in your pocket change.
Issued by: United States Mint
First Year of Issue: 1979
Designer: Frank Gasparro
Composition: 91.67% copper, 8.33% nickel
Diameter: 26.5 mm
Weight: 8.1 grams
The Susan B. Anthony Dollar was introduced to honor the women’s suffrage leader Susan B. Anthony. It was the first time a real woman (not symbolic) appeared on U.S. currency. Despite a limited minting lifespan (1979–1981, 1999), its legacy endures among numismatists.
Different Mint Marks and Their Values
1. 1979-P (Philadelphia)
Mintage: ~360 million
Common Value: $1.05–$5 (circulated)
Proof-Like or High-Grade MS67+: $50–$250
Rare Variety: 1979-P Wide Rim/Near Date
Value: $500–$2,000+ (MS65+)
2. 1979-D (Denver)
Mintage: ~288 million
Common Value: $1.05–$3
MS67+ Value: $100–$500
3. 1979-S (San Francisco – Proof)
Mintage: ~3.7 million
Type 1 (Filled S): $10–$25
Type 2 (Clear S): $30–$250
Deep Cameo PR70: $1,000+
What Makes the 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Rare?
Wide Rim / Near Date Variety
This variant of the 1979-P coin features a wider rim and the date closer to the edge—making it distinct and sought-after.
Proof Type 2 (Clear “S”) Variety
Issued by the San Francisco Mint, the Type 2 “S” mintmark is sharply defined compared to the blurry Type 1. These coins are rare in high grades.
Condition and Grade
Coins graded by PCGS or NGC as MS67 or higher fetch premium prices. Clean fields, sharp strike, and luster contribute to value.
Record Auction Prices
| Coin Type | Grade | Auction Price | Year Sold |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1979-P Wide Rim | MS67 | $1,527 | 2007 |
| 1979-S Type 2 Proof | PR70 | $1,000+ | 2022 |
| 1979-D High Grade | MS68 | $2,250 | 2016 |
| Ultra-Rare Mint Errors | — | $10,000–$384,000 | Various |
How to Identify a Valuable 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
flowchart LR
A[1979 SBA Dollar] --> B{Check Mint Mark}
B --> C[P - Wide Rim?]
C -->|Yes| D[High Value: $500+]
C -->|No| E[Common Value]
B --> F[D - Regular Strike]
F --> G[High Grade = Valuable]
B --> H[S - Proof Coin?]
H --> I{Type 1 or Type 2}
I -->|Type 2| J[Value: $30–$1,000+]
I -->|Type 1| K[Value: $10–$25]
Grading Guide for Susan B. Anthony Dollars
| Grade | Description | Market Impact |
|---|---|---|
| AU-50 | Slight wear, nearly uncirculated | Low collector interest |
| MS-60 | Uncirculated but dull or marked | Entry-level value |
| MS-65 | Strong luster, minimal marks | Highly collectible |
| MS-67+ | Exceptional luster and strike | Premium prices |
| PR70 DCAM | Perfect proof with deep cameo | Top-tier investment |
Error Coins and Their Value
Error coins significantly enhance value. Look for:
- Off-Center Strikes
- Double Dies
- Wrong Planchet Errors
- Clipped Planchets
These rare specimens have sold for $10,000 to $384,000, depending on error type and condition.
Investing in the 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Storage: Use air-tite capsules or graded slabs to prevent damage.
Authentication: Stick with PCGS or NGC certified coins.
Market Trends: Interest is growing due to historical importance and increasing scarcity.
Diversification: Include variants like Wide Rim, Type 2 Proofs, and errors for a well-rounded collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar worth more than $100?
Wide Rim variety, high mint state grades (MS67+), and rare errors can significantly boost value.
Are all 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollars valuable?
No. Most are worth face value unless they are high grade, rare variants, or error coins.
How can I get my coin graded?
Submit to professional services like PCGS or NGC. Fees start around $20–$50 per coin.