In the world of coin collection, precious pearls can be hidden in common sight in Jeb, coin jar and dusty drawer. One of these remarkable jewelers 1981 Susan B. Anthony is a dollar, a coin that appears to be common at first glance, but can be as much as $ 880,000.
The problem is whether this rare dollar is still in circulation? And how can you find it? Let’s dive into history, resolution and what specific “brand”, you should see if your secure B. Anthony Coin is just a pocket change – or a windfall.
History of Susan B Anthony Dollar
Susan f. Anthony (SBA) dollar was introduced in 1979, replacing the big Eisenhower dollar. The idea was a small, more practical coin of $ 1. It was the first American coin depicting a real woman, a tribute to women’s rights champion Susan B Anthony.
In connection with further thinking, the coin was confused by the audience. It was equal to a quarter size and was abandoned quickly using day to day. Production stopped in 1981, although it started short in 1999.
This short production cycle is the main cause of some of these coin’s extremely valuable for 1981-dated coin collections.
Why the 1981 Dollar Is Worth Up to $880,000
The 1981-S Type 2 Proof is the most valuable version of the 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar. Here’s why:
1. Low Mintage
The SBA dollars of 1981 were not put into general circulation only proof sets were sold to collectors. This already means they’re rare.
2. Type 2 Mint Mark
There are two varieties of the 1981-S coin Type 1 and Type 2 and the Type 2 is very rare. The variation is in the appearance of the “S” mint mark:
- Type 1: A fuzzy, blob ‘S’
- Type 2: A well-defined, sharp ‘S’
Fewer than a handful of Type 2 coins were minted before the Mint reworked the die, rendering it one of the most scarce SBA varieties.
3. Grading and Condition
Coins graded Proof-70 Deep Cameo by quality companies such as PCGS or NGC can command stratospheric prices and have sold for more than $800,000 in some cases based on demand.
How to Identify the Scarce 1981-S Type 2 Dollar
The key is in the mint mark, which sits right above Susan B. Anthony’s shoulder on the coin’s obverse (front side).
- The Type 1 ‘S’ has a fuzzy and indistinct look.
- The Type 2 ‘S’ is sharp, with serif-like terminations and an extremely polished look.
Use a magnifying glass to examine your coin. If you detect a clear, quality ‘S,’ you may be holding a Type 2 proof coin.
Quick Guide to Identifying Valuable Susan B. Anthony Dollars
| Year | Mint Mark | Type | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1979-P | Wide Rim | Circulation | $30–$100+ |
| 1981-S | Type 1 | Proof | $10–$50 |
| 1981-S | Type 2 | Proof | Up to $880,000 |
| 1999-P/D | Circulation | $1–$5 | |
| 1979-S | Proof | $10–$40 |
Note: Grades, conditions, and demand dictate values.
Is the $880K Susan B. Anthony Dollar Still in Circulation?
Technically, yes although the 1981-S Type 2 was not released into general circulation, some did leak into public hands through estate sales, coin mishandling, or resale of collector sets.
Since Susan B. Anthony dollars were never all that popular and were many times melted down or lost, it’s not entirely impossible to come across one in circulation although it’s extremely unlikely. And yet, coins have surfaced in:
- Old change jars
- Inherited collections
- Banks’ coin rolls
- Thrift store coin discoveries
So, dig through your pocket change and those forgotten coin collections you never know!
Why Susan B. Anthony Dollars Are Forgotten
Most Americans do not know about SBA dollars because:
- They’re not frequently used in commercial transactions.
- They look similar to quarters in size and color.
- They’re sometimes confused with foreign coins.
This makes them perfect hiding places for valuable treasures. You could very well pass one off as 25 cents and lose thousands of dollars!
Coin Collecting Tip: Grading Matters
If you come across what you think is a valuable SBA dollar:
- DO NOT clean it—this destroys the value.
- Handle with care—use gloves or plastic sleeves.
- Have it graded—send it to PCGS or NGC for authentication and grading.
Coins in Proof-69 or Proof-70 Deep Cameo condition command the highest prices, particularly if they’re of the scarce Type 2 1981-S variety.
Fun Fact: Why Was the Coin Discontinued?
Public discontent, confusion with quarters, and vending machine rejection caused the coin to be discontinued. Ironically, those same attributes today make it an object of interest and worth.
Read More:- Kennedy Half Dollar Could Be a Hidden Gem Still in Use Today
Conclusion: A $1 Coin Worth Almost a Million
It sounds far-fetched, but the plain Jane 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar might just be worth $880,000 if it’s the special one. The trick is to spot the scarce Type 2 mint mark and that the coin must be in mint state.
So the next time you receive change from a purchase or dig through an old jar of coins, look again. That seemingly worthless dollar might be a collector’s treasure trove and your own surprise windfall.
FAQs:-
What makes the 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar so valuable?
A rare mint mark or proof error, particularly the 1981-S Type 2, makes it highly collectible and valuable.
What is the 1981-S Type 2 variety?
It’s a proof coin with a clearer, more distinct ‘S’ mint mark, unlike the blurry Type 1 — only a few exist.
Where is the mint mark located on the Susan B. Anthony Dollar?
The mint mark is just above the shoulder of Susan B. Anthony on the coin’s obverse (front side).
Shreya Singh is a dedicated financial journalist known for her in-depth coverage of government programs and economic updates. She consistently delivers accurate information on U.S. topics such as Stimulus Checks, IRS announcements, and federal relief efforts. Shreya also reports on UK welfare programs, covering developments in Universal Credit, PIP, and DWP news. Her clarity and commitment to trustworthy reporting have earned her a loyal following among readers seeking insightful financial updates.