Many circulated 1981 Susan B Anthony dollars are common and worth face value. But certain error coins and uniquely graded pieces have sold for very high prices at auction. This article shows how to identify valuable 1981 Susan B Anthony dollars, why some reached extraordinary prices, and what steps to take if you find one in your change.
Why the 1981 Susan B Anthony dollar matters
The Susan B Anthony dollar was minted from 1979 to 1981 and again in 1999. Millions were produced, so most 1981 coins are ordinary and worth about $1 each.
However, a small number of examples with unusual errors, provenance, or ultra-high grades can command large sums from collectors and investors. Always treat high sale figures as conditional on authentication and grading.
How to identify a 1981 Susan B Anthony dollar
Start with a basic visual inspection. Look for obvious differences from a regular dollar coin, such as unusual surfaces, doubled images, or mismatched edges. Use a magnifying glass or loupe (4x–10x) for details.
Common points to check
- Obverse details: Susan B Anthony portrait clarity and hairlines.
- Reverse details: Eagle design, stars, and rim lettering for doubling or missing elements.
- Edge: The Susan B Anthony dollar has a plain edge; check for reeding or added markings indicating post-mint alteration.
- Mint mark: Usually on the obverse; 1981 coins were produced only at the Philadelphia (no mint mark) and Denver (D). Verify placement and style of mint mark.
Common valuable varieties and errors for 1981 Susan B Anthony dollar
Most valuable 1981 dollars fall into a few categories. Knowing these helps you assess potential worth.
- Minting errors: Off-center strikes, double strikes, clipped planchets, and broadstrikes are sought after.
- Wrong planchet: A few coins struck on the wrong metal (for example a cent or nickel planchet) can be valuable.
- Proof and business strike mixes: Proof coins or specially handled specimens graded at MS/PR 65+ can rise in value.
- Exceptional condition: A coin graded MS70 by a major grading service will get collector attention.
Why some 1981 Susan B Anthony dollars reach high auction prices
A headline price like 880,000 dollars typically comes from a unique combination of factors: a rare error, verified provenance, expert authentication, and top-tier grading.
Auctions that report such prices usually involve coins that are one-of-a-kind or which made history in the collecting community. Without certification from a respected grading service, high values are unlikely.
What to do if you find a potentially valuable 1981 Susan B Anthony dollar
Follow practical steps so you do not damage a coin that could be worth much more than face value.
- Handle by the edges and avoid cleaning the coin. Cleaning reduces value.
- Take clear photos (obverse, reverse, and edge) on a neutral background for documentation.
- Compare details with online resources and coin catalogs to look for known errors or varieties.
- If it appears unusual, seek a professional opinion from a reputable coin dealer or numismatist.
- If the expert suggests high value, consider third-party grading (PCGS, NGC, ANACS) before selling.
Small real-world case study
A small-town cashier found a worn 1981 Susan B Anthony dollar mixed into a roll of change. At first glance it looked like every other dollar, but the cashier noticed an odd off-center strike and a slightly thicker rim on one side.
After photographing and consulting an online coin forum, the cashier took the coin to a local dealer. The dealer suspected a significant mint error and recommended third-party grading. The graded result confirmed a notable off-center strike, which increased collector interest and led to a successful online sale well above face value.
The Susan B Anthony dollar was the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman. Its small size and similarity to the quarter caused public confusion, which limited its circulation despite large mintages.
How grading and authentication affect value
Most high-price coins are authenticated and slabbed by major grading services. Grading confirms authenticity, condition, and helps buyers trust the coin.
Costs for grading vary by service and declared value, but the expense is often justified if a coin has a real chance of high resale value.
Quick checklist before selling or submitting for grading
- Do not clean or polish the coin. Cleaning destroys the natural patina and often lowers value.
- Document how and where you found the coin—provenance can help.
- Get multiple opinions for unusual errors before committing to grading fees.
- Use reputable dealers and established grading services; avoid unknown middlemen.
Final practical tips
Check your change and piggy banks occasionally. Most 1981 Susan B Anthony dollars are worth only face value, but rare errors or top-graded examples can be worth a lot more.
Keep records, handle coins carefully, and seek expert advice before making decisions about grading or sale.
If you think you have a rare 1981 Susan B Anthony dollar, document it, get a professional opinion, and consider graded authentication. That is the best way to realize any potential value.