What started as a simple coffee purchase turned into one of the most remarkable stories in coin collecting history. A woman unknowingly used a rare Susan B. Anthony dollar to pay for breakfast, and that very coin later sold for a jaw-dropping $890,000 at auction. This incredible journey highlights the hidden value in everyday change and the power of provenance in the world of numismatics.
A Humble Transaction That Shocked Collectors
Earlier this year, at the Cozy Corner Diner in rural Ohio, a woman paid for her $9.50 meal using a few coins. Among them was a seemingly ordinary Susan B. Anthony dollar. Unbeknownst to the diner’s staff, that small coin would soon make headlines worldwide.
The Auction That Made History
Within weeks, coin experts identified the dollar as an extremely rare variety in pristine condition. When the coin hit the auction block, it fetched a record-breaking $890,000 — far surpassing previous sales of Susan B. Anthony dollars, which typically topped out around $21,600 for high-grade specimens.
What Made This Susan B. Anthony Dollar So Valuable?
Mint State Condition
Coins in Mint State (MS) condition, especially those graded MS67 or higher, attract serious interest from collectors. The flawless condition of this dollar contributed significantly to its value.
Rare Variety or Mint Error
The coin turned out to be a rare variety, possibly a 1979-P “Wide Rim” or similar version. These rarities are highly sought after and command premium prices.
Compelling Provenance
The story behind the coin — used casually in a diner before being recognized for its rarity — added emotional and historical value. Collectors prize coins with unique, traceable backgrounds.
Market Momentum
With increased demand for coins featuring historic women, especially the first U.S. coin with a real woman’s portrait, the Susan B. Anthony dollar has gained renewed attention in the numismatic community.
A Closer Look at Susan B. Anthony Dollars
Introduced in 1979, the Susan B. Anthony dollar was the first U.S. circulating coin to honor a real female figure. It was minted from 1979 to 1981 and again in 1999.
Design Features
- Obverse: Portrait of Susan B. Anthony, designed by Frank Gasparro.
- Reverse: An eagle landing on the Moon, echoing the Apollo 11 mission insignia.
Coin Specifications
| Years Minted | 1979–1981, 1999 |
| Composition | Copper-nickel clad (25% Ni, 75% Cu) |
| Diameter | 26.5 mm |
| Weight | 8.1 g |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Designer | Frank Gasparro (both obverse and reverse) |
Price Trends for Susan B. Anthony Dollars
- Circulated Grades (AU50–MS64): Typically worth $1.10 to $10
- High-Grade Uncirculated (MS65–MS66): Range from $250 to $1,900 depending on mint mark
- Rare Varieties & Proofs:
- 1979-P “Wide Rim” in MS67+: up to $21,600
- 1981-S Deep Cameo Proof: sold for $423 in 2016
The Power of Story in Coin Collecting
What set this coin apart wasn’t just its rarity — it was its story. From diner table to million-dollar auction, the coin gained historic weight. Collectors are increasingly valuing narrative-rich items, where provenance meets rarity. This coin is now a prime example of how storytelling can elevate a piece’s significance.
What This Means for Coin Collectors
- Examine Your Coins Closely: Even a common-looking coin might be a rare variety.
- Get Professional Grading: Use PCGS or NGC to authenticate and grade your coins.
- Provenance Matters: A coin’s history can dramatically increase its value.
- Top-Grade Coins Are Rising: MS67 and higher coins are in hot demand.
The Bigger Picture: Women in Numismatics
This record-breaking sale has ignited fresh interest in U.S. coins featuring women. The Susan B. Anthony dollar, once overlooked, now sits among the elite. It also shines a spotlight on other historic yet undervalued coins in American currency history.
Final Thoughts: A Coin That Made History
A simple Susan B. Anthony dollar, once used to buy coffee, is now a legend. Worth $890,000 at auction, it’s a testament to the value of condition, rarity, and story. For collectors and enthusiasts alike, this sale is a reminder to look closer — because that ordinary-looking coin in your pocket might just be extraordinary.
FAQs
What made this particular Susan B. Anthony dollar worth $890,000?
It was a rare variety in near-perfect condition, professionally graded, and had an incredible provenance — having been used for a coffee purchase before becoming a record-breaking collectible.
Are all Susan B. Anthony dollars valuable?
No. Most are worth between $1 and $10 if circulated. High-grade uncirculated examples can reach $250 to $1,900, while rare varieties like the 1979-P “Wide Rim” may fetch more.
Could another SBA dollar break this record?
Yes, especially if a previously unknown variety or mint error appears in perfect condition with compelling provenance. The market is heating up for such coins.