The Susan B. Anthony dollar occasionally turns up in pockets and coin jars. Most are common and worth face value, but a handful of examples and error coins can command high prices at auction. This guide shows practical steps to inspect Susan B. Anthony dollars and hunt for the rare pieces that might be worth significant money.
Why collectors value the Susan B. Anthony dollar
The Susan B. Anthony dollar was minted for circulation in 1979–1981 and again in 1999. It was the first U.S. circulating coin to feature a real woman, which increases collector interest.
Collectors pay premiums for scarce varieties, high-condition examples, and major minting errors. Some exceptional pieces have sold for thousands or more, making regular checks of change worthwhile.
How to spot a Rare Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Start with visible features. Check the date, mint mark, and overall condition. Use a magnifier and good light when examining the coin.
Compare any unusual marks to reference photos from trusted sources like PCGS, NGC, or the Red Book. If a coin looks abnormal, document the coin with clear photos before further handling.
Key varieties and errors to look for
- Major die errors — large off-center strikes, missing design elements, or coins struck on the wrong planchet.
- Double dies — visible doubling on the date, motto, or portrait.
- Repunched or misplaced mint marks — especially on 1979, 1980, or 1999 issues.
- Unusual planchets — for example, coins struck on a foreign planchet or a different-metal core.
- Proof and specimen strikes — proof coins or specially struck museum pieces in top grade can be worth thousands.
Tools and quick checks for everyday coin hunting
Carry a small set of tools to evaluate coins quickly. A 10x loupe, good light, and a simple reference chart are enough for front-line inspection.
Key quick checks:
- Read the date and mint mark clearly with a loupe.
- Look for off-center strikes, doubled details, or missing reeds on the edge.
- Compare wear patterns to see if details appear unusually sharp for the coin’s circulation.
- Weigh and measure if you suspect an off-metal planchet. (Official specs are a useful reference.)
Where to hunt for a Rare Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Hunting in places you already use is practical and inexpensive. Susan B. Anthony dollars can still show up in modern circulation and in older coin jars.
Good places to check include:
- Current pocket change and cash transactions
- Bank coin rolls and coin-sorting machines
- Vending machine returns where coins are less handled
- Estate finds and inherited coin jars
Handling and preservation
Handle coins by the edge to avoid skin oils. Store suspect coins in separate flips or coin holders to prevent damage. Photograph coins before sending them for grading or sale.
The Susan B. Anthony dollar was the first U.S. circulating coin to depict a real woman. It was minted in 1979–1981 and again in 1999, and its size similar to a quarter made it unpopular with the public.
When to get a Susan B. Anthony dollar professionally graded
If you find a coin with an unusual error or an exceptionally sharp example, consider professional grading. Grading establishes authenticity and condition, which strongly affects market value.
Common grading services include PCGS and NGC. Submission fees vary by declared value and service speed. For potentially valuable errors or top-graded specimens, grading is usually worth the cost.
How grading affects value
A rare variety in mint state (uncirculated) and high grade can multiply value dramatically. Coins with major errors authenticated by a grading service often attract strong bidding at auction.
Real-world example: A cautious case study
A collector found a 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar in a pocket and noticed odd doubling on the date under magnification. After photographing the coin, they compared it to reference images online and submitted pictures to a collectors forum for feedback.
The community recommended professional submission. The coin was submitted to a grading service and authenticated as a doubled-die variety in high grade. After grading, the collector consigned the coin to auction and received offers in the mid four-figures. The sale paid for the grading fees and left a significant profit.
Practical checklist before you submit or sell
- Photograph the coin with a neutral background and good light.
- Compare to trusted variety guides and auction records.
- Store the coin safely in a proper holder to prevent further wear.
- Get community feedback from reputable forums or local coin clubs.
- Submit to an accredited grading service if the coin appears rare or high-grade.
Final tips for coin hunters
Be realistic: most Susan B. Anthony dollars are common and worth face value. However, rare varieties and major errors are real and can be valuable to the right collector or auction house.
Hunting takes patience and small daily effort. Check spare change, handle coins carefully, and verify anything unusual before spending money on grading. With careful inspection and the right contacts, a valuable Susan B. Anthony dollar could be hiding in plain sight.