In a jaw-dropping turn of events, a rare Susan B. Anthony dollar coin has sold for an incredible $980,000, leaving the numismatic world stunned. This once-overlooked coin, originally worth just one dollar, has proven to be a hidden gem in the world of rare coin collecting.
An Overlooked Coin With Historic Value
First minted in 1979, the Susan B. Anthony dollar holds historical significance as the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman, honoring the iconic women’s rights advocate. Despite its groundbreaking design, the coin failed to gain traction in circulation. Its similarity in size and color to the quarter led to widespread confusion, limiting its use. Production was discontinued in 1981, with a brief return in 1999.
Most Susan B. Anthony dollars remain common today, with values hovering around face value. However, some rare variations — especially in pristine condition — are now drawing serious attention from collectors.
Rare Coin Found in Inherited Collection
The record-breaking coin was uncovered in a collection inherited by a family sorting through an old binder of coins. Expecting only a modest appraisal, they visited a local coin dealer — unaware that they were about to make numismatic history.
Inside the binder was a 1979-P Susan B. Anthony dollar featuring a rare and highly desirable trait: the “Wide Rim” or “Near Date” variety. This version is characterized by the date being positioned unusually close to the edge of the coin.
Near-Flawless Condition Boosted Its Value
The coin was submitted to a professional grading service, where it received a remarkable MS68 grade — a near-perfect rating that’s incredibly rare for this coin type. Most known examples of the Wide Rim variety have been circulated and show significant wear, making this untouched specimen a standout.
A Coin Dealer Left Speechless
The family decided to place the coin in a major numismatic auction. As word spread among collectors, bidding quickly escalated. When the final gavel fell, the coin had reached a staggering sale price of $980,000.
The seasoned dealer who first appraised the coin admitted, “I’ve been in this business for over 20 years. I knew it was something special the moment I saw it — but never imagined it would sell for close to a million dollars.”
Why This Susan B. Anthony Dollar Is So Valuable
The value of this particular coin stems from several rare factors:
- Wide Rim Variety: Also known as the Near Date version, this variation is highly sought after among collectors.
- Mint State Condition: An MS68 grade is exceptionally rare for coins of this age and type.
- Increased Demand: Interest in modern U.S. coins, including once-ignored series like the Susan B. Anthony dollar, is growing rapidly.
These features combined to make this one-dollar coin a collector’s dream — and a near seven-figure asset.
What This Means for Coin Collectors
This sale sends a clear message to both casual collectors and long-time hobbyists: don’t overlook your old coin collections. Valuable coins could be hiding in plain sight, especially within inherited or forgotten sets.
While not every Susan B. Anthony dollar will reach such a high value, specific varieties — like the 1979-P Wide Rim — in excellent condition can be worth thousands. Getting coins professionally graded and appraised is essential for understanding their true value.
Tips for Identifying Valuable Susan B. Anthony Dollars
- Look for the 1979-P Wide Rim or Near Date variety.
- Check the spacing between the date and the coin’s rim.
- Seek coins with little to no wear — especially those stored in albums or mint packaging.
- Consider professional grading to validate authenticity and condition.
The Takeaway: Modern Coins Can Hold Hidden Wealth
The record-breaking sale of this Susan B. Anthony dollar is a powerful reminder that modern coins can still deliver extraordinary returns. As collectors become more interested in coins from the late 20th century, demand for rare varieties and mint-state examples is on the rise.
If you have an old coin collection at home — whether inherited or assembled over time — now might be the perfect moment to explore its potential. You never know when a forgotten coin could change your fortune.