Many collectors and casual savers overlook modern U.S. dollar coins. Susan B. Anthony and Sacagawea dollars were widely produced, but a small number of these pieces are rare and valuable. This guide explains which types to check, how to identify them, and what to do if you find one.
Why Susan B. Anthony and Sacagawea coins can be valuable
Value comes from rarity, condition, and collector demand. Errors, low-mintage issues, and special varieties push prices well above face value.
Modern coins can be valuable because they escaped mass circulation or exhibit striking errors. These coins are easier to find than old rarities but still need careful inspection.
Susan B. Anthony coin varieties to check
Susan B. Anthony dollars were minted from 1979 and briefly in the late 1990s. Look for these high-value categories when examining a coin:
- Proofs and high-grade uncirculated pieces — collectors prize PR and MS grades.
- Mintmark varieties — especially coins from the San Francisco mint with proof finishes.
- Minting errors — doubled dies, rotation errors, and struck-through varieties.
How to spot Susan B. Anthony errors
Use a magnifier and good light. Check for doubling on dates and lettering, off-center strikes, and unusual rim shapes. Many valuable Anthony coins show clear, visible doubling or are in perfect, near-mint condition.
Keep a list or photos of coins you think are unusual. That helps when you consult a dealer or submit coins for grading.
Sacagawea coin types that may be worth money
Sacagawea dollars began in 2000 and include both the original golden dollar and later Native American series. Certain issues and errors are highly sought after.
Key value drivers include mint errors, special early releases, and coins held in mint condition. Some Sacagawea dollars from promotional releases can also be collectible.
Common Sacagawea varieties to inspect
- 2000-P promotional issues distributed in cereal boxes — these can have unusual finishes.
- Error coins such as missing edges, planchet defects, or doubled dies.
- High grade examples from the first year of the series, especially uncirculated rolls or specimens graded MS67 or higher.
Steps to identify and verify a valuable coin
Follow a clear process when you think you found a valuable Susan B. Anthony or Sacagawea coin. A disciplined approach prevents mistakes and preserves coin condition.
- Inspect visually using a loupe or strong magnifier and good lighting.
- Compare the coin to reference photos from reliable numismatic resources or price guides.
- If it appears rare, avoid cleaning or polishing; cleaning destroys collector value.
- Consider professional grading from PCGS, NGC, or ANACS to confirm authenticity and condition.
How grading and condition affect price
Grading assigns a standard numeric grade that collectors trust. A certified MS67 coin will command a much higher price than a raw coin of the same year and type.
Even a common-date Susan B. Anthony or Sacagawea coin can rise sharply in value when graded at the top levels. Certification also makes coins easier to sell at auction or to dealers.
Some Sacagawea dollars were included in promotional cereal giveaways in 2000, creating collectible variants that are now sought after by modern coin collectors.
Where to sell or get a valuation
There are several good options for selling or getting a value estimate. Choose the one that fits your coin and your comfort level with selling large-ticket collectibles.
- Local coin dealers — quick and convenient, but expect dealer margins.
- Online auction sites — reach collectors broadly, suitable for rare graded coins.
- Specialist auction houses — best for top-grade or extremely rare examples.
- Coin shows and clubs — good for getting multiple opinions and offers.
Tips before selling
Get multiple opinions, especially for coins that appear to be rare. If the coin looks unique, consider professional grading before a sale. Always keep documentation and photos.
Small real-world case study
A collector found a Sacagawea dollar in a change jar that appeared sharper than typical circulation examples. After comparing it to reference photos and noticing unusual doubling on the legend, the collector submitted the coin for grading.
Once certified at a high mint-state grade, the coin attracted bids from specialized collectors at auction. The sale confirmed it had significantly more value than face value and illustrated the importance of verification and grading.
Final checklist: What to do if you find a suspect coin
- Do not clean or alter the coin.
- Photograph the coin from multiple angles under good light.
- Compare with trusted online resources or guides for Susan B. Anthony and Sacagawea varieties.
- Seek at least two professional opinions if the coin appears valuable.
- Consider sending the coin to a reputable grading service for certification.
Modern dollar coins like Susan B. Anthony and Sacagawea can hide surprises. With careful inspection, avoidance of cleaning, and the right verification steps, you can determine whether a coin you own is worth a fortune or simply a neat piece of American currency.