Modern U.S. dollar coins—Sacagawea, Susan B. Anthony, and the Presidential series—can be profitable and rewarding areas of collecting. Value usually depends on date, mint mark, condition, and whether a coin is a proof or error. This guide explains which modern dollars are most likely to be worth collecting and how to evaluate them.
Why Sacagawea Susan B Anthony and Presidential dollars matter to collectors
These dollar series are modern enough that many people find examples in circulation, vending machine rolls, and old collections. Rarity is often not obvious from the face of the coin, so collectors focus on special dates, mint marks, proof strikes, and mint errors.
Understanding the key value drivers helps you make better buying and selling decisions and avoid paying premiums for common, low-grade pieces.
Top features that increase value for Sacagawea, Susan B Anthony and Presidential dollars
- Low mintage dates and early-year strikes (first-year issues are often sought).
- Proof coins and high grade (MS or PR grades above 65 bring premiums).
- Mint errors—off-center strikes, double dies, clipped planchets, and broadstrikes are collectible.
- Unique finishes (deep cameo/proof finishes or special mint sets).
- Original packaging or certification by grading services (PCGS, NGC).
Most valuable Sacagawea dollars worth collecting
Sacagawea dollars were first issued in 2000 and introduced a new collecting field. The most collectible Sacagawea types are usually first-year business strikes, proofs, and error coins.
- First-year Sacagawea business strikes in high grade—collectors prize coins free of marks and with original luster.
- Proof Sacagawea coins in mint sets—proofs with deep cameo contrast command attention.
- Documented mint errors such as broadstrikes or off-center strikes are especially sought.
How to inspect a Sacagawea dollar
Look for clear details on Sacagawea’s portrait and the eagle on the reverse. Edge lettering and the quality of the rim can reveal broadstrikes or weak strikes. Always check for unusual planchet or die characteristics.
Most valuable Susan B Anthony dollars worth collecting
Susan B. Anthony dollars (1979–1981, 1999) are small and easy to overlook. Collectible examples usually fall into these categories: proof coins, high-grade business strikes, and recognized die or mint errors.
- Proof Susan B. Anthony dollars from a mint set in pristine condition.
- High-grade uncirculated business strikes (MS65 and above).
- Error coins—struck on an incorrect planchet, off-center, or with strong die doubling.
Quick identification tips for Susan B Anthony dollars
Because these coins circulated poorly when issued, many survivors are in excellent condition. Check the portrait and lettering for wear, and inspect the rim and fields for die breaks or doubling.
Key Presidential dollars worth collecting
The Presidential dollar series (2007–2016) produced many issues, some of which are more collectible. Collectors chase first-year issues, low-mintage releases, proof sets, and known error coins.
- First-year presidential issues—early strikes can have higher collector demand.
- Proof and uncirculated mint sets—especially coins graded at high levels.
- Error and variety coins—off-center strikes, incorrect edge lettering, and doubled dies.
What to watch for on Presidential dollars
Inspect the portrait, the year and mint mark, and the edge lettering. Edge lettering errors (missing or doubled incuse edge text) tend to be visible signs worth professional grading.
Grading, certification, and realistic values
Grading is the single biggest factor that separates common coins from valuable ones. A certified MS67 coin may be worth many times an MS63 example of the same date.
Professional grading and encapsulation (PCGS, NGC) add buyer confidence and make it easier to sell at auction or to dealers. Always consider certification costs versus the estimated premium.
Buying and selling tips for collectors
- Buy from reputable dealers, auction houses, or certified marketplaces to reduce the risk of counterfeits.
- Ask for high-resolution photos and provenance for high-value coins.
- Compare recent auction results for the exact date, mint mark, and grade before offering or accepting a price.
- Store coins in inert holders, avoid PVC, and keep humidity and temperature stable.
Where to look
Check local coin shops, coin shows, online auctions, and bank rolls. Proof sets and mint sets are a good source of pristine modern dollars that may be undervalued in estate sales.
Small real-world example
A collector bought a roll of modern dollars at a community coin fair and found an uncirculated Sacagawea with sharp details. After having it graded and authenticated, the coin sold to an online buyer who wanted a high-grade example for a type set. The collector used the proceeds to buy a certified proof Susan B. Anthony to fill another spot in the collection.
This simple example shows how attention to condition and grading can turn an overlooked modern dollar into a collectible sale.
Final checklist before you buy
- Verify date and mint mark; first-year issues often command higher interest.
- Inspect grade and look for proof finishes or error signs.
- Ask about return policies, certification, and provenance.
- Compare recent auction records for similar coins and grades.
Collecting Sacagawea, Susan B. Anthony, and Presidential dollars is practical for both beginners and advanced collectors. Focus on condition, certification, and verified errors to find the most valuable pieces worth collecting.