Why a Rare Susan B. Anthony Dollar Can Be Worth $25,000
Most Susan B. Anthony dollars (1979–1981, 1999) circulate at face value or fetch a few dollars from collectors. However, extreme exceptions exist.
High auction prices come from three main categories: top-graded mint-state or proof strikes, dramatic mint errors, and very scarce die varieties. In rare cases these can reach five-figure prices when demand is strong.
Which Rare Susan B. Anthony Dollar to Hunt For
Focus on these categories when looking for a rare Susan B. Anthony dollar. Each has real collectible value and clear identification points.
- High-grade mint state examples (MS65 and above) and proofs (PR65 and above)
- Major mint errors: off-center strikes, broadstrikes, clipped planchets, double strikes
- Die varieties and repunched mint marks (RPMs) that are documented but scarce
Key Date and Mint Mark Areas
Look at the date, mint mark (P, D, or S), and the rim. Many valuable varieties show differences around these areas. Use magnification to check small details.
How to Identify a Rare Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Identification should be methodical: examine, compare, document, and research. Avoid assuming a coin is valuable from a quick glance.
- Use a 5–10x loupe to inspect the obverse and reverse closely.
- Check for doubling on letters or the date (possible doubled die).
- Look for unusual strikes: off-center, clipped planchets, or lamination errors.
- Test weight and magnetism for suspect planchet errors (SBA dollars are non-magnetic).
Tools and Resources
Keep a loupe, a small scale, and reference guides handy. Online databases and auction archives help confirm rarity and past prices.
- PCGS CoinFacts and NGC Coin Explorer
- Standard reference books such as the Red Book (A Guide Book of United States Coins)
- Recent auction archives and completed eBay listings
Where to Get a Susan B. Anthony Dollar Graded
Professional grading by PCGS or NGC can dramatically increase buyer confidence and sometimes price. Submit coins that look uncirculated or show potential major errors.
Smaller issues can be verified by experienced local dealers before paying grading fees. Save grading for coins that clearly have premium traits.
How to Hunt for a Rare Susan B. Anthony Dollar in Your Change
Hunting in circulation is straightforward but requires patience. Follow a consistent routine to increase your chances.
- Check any dollar coins you receive from banks, vending machines, and coin-operated machines.
- Sort dollar coins into pile by date and mint mark for quick comparison.
- Use a loupe to inspect promising candidates for doubling, off-center strikes, or unusual rims.
- Keep detailed photos and notes of anything that looks different.
Practical Tips
- Ask bank tellers to pull out dollar coins from coin rolls and bags for quick screening.
- Keep a small change jar dedicated to dollar coins so you can inspect in bulk on weekends.
- Join local coin clubs or online forums to get quick feedback and help with attributions.
Some Susan B. Anthony dollars with major mint errors or top proof grades have sold at auction for five figures. These outcomes are rare but real, which is why careful inspection matters.
Small Real-World Example
A hobbyist found a Susan B. Anthony dollar in a roll from a bank that showed unusual doubling on the date and lettering. After posting images on a collector forum, more experienced members suggested a potential doubled die.
The hobbyist submitted the coin to a grading service. Once authenticated and graded highly for the variety, the coin attracted competitive bids at auction and sold for a five-figure amount. This case shows the value of documentation, community vetting, and professional grading.
What to Expect in Value and Where Prices Vary
Most circulated SBA dollars are worth face value or a small premium. Mid-range errors and well-preserved uncirculated pieces can fetch hundreds to low thousands of dollars.
Only a tiny fraction of coins—major errors or top-graded, well-documented varieties—move into higher five-figure territory. Use conservative expectations unless the coin is authenticated and market interest is proven.
Final Practical Checklist for Finding a Rare Susan B. Anthony Dollar
- Inspect every dollar coin you receive, focusing on date, mint mark, and rim details.
- Use a loupe and compare to reference images before assuming rarity.
- Document unusual features with photos and measurements.
- Seek quick peer feedback from coin forums or local clubs.
- Submit only strong candidates to a reputable grading service for authentication.
Hunting for a rare Susan B. Anthony dollar can be rewarding. With routine checking, basic tools, and careful documentation, you increase your odds of finding a genuine hidden gem among everyday change.