Imagine digging through a jar of loose change and pulling out a coin that could pay off your car. That’s the thrill of the Susan B. Anthony dollar – the first U.S. coin honoring a real woman. Most are worth just a buck, but a few rare gems have sold for over $20,000.
In this post, we’ll uncover why these numismatic treasures matter, spotlight the $21,600 stunner, and share tips to spot your own jackpot. Stick around – you might just cash in on history.
What Is the Susan B. Anthony Dollar?
The Susan B. Anthony dollar, or SBA dollar, hit U.S. pockets in 1979. It’s a small silver-looking coin – actually copper-nickel clad – with an 11-sided edge to stand out from quarters. Obverse shows suffragist Susan B. Anthony’s profile; reverse features an eagle landing on the moon. Minted until 1981 and briefly in 1999, it’s a numismatic milestone for featuring a non-mythical woman.
A Quick History of the Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Back in the 1970s, the U.S. Mint ditched the bulky Eisenhower dollar for something pocket-friendly. Enter the SBA, designed by Frank Gasparro. But at 26.5mm wide, it mimicked quarters too closely, sparking confusion. Production halted in 1981 after low circulation. A 1999 revival filled vending machine needs, but the coin faded fast. Today, it’s a hobbyist’s favorite for its feminist roots and quirky story.
Why Susan B. Anthony Dollars Are Hot in Today’s Rare Coin Market
Most SBA dollars fetch face value, but rarities explode in worth. Condition rules – pristine examples shine in auctions. With numismatics booming, these coins symbolize women’s rights progress. Investors eye them for steady appreciation; collectors love the hunt. That $21,600 sale? It proves even “common” issues can turn legendary with the right traits.
How to Hunt and Collect Susan B. Anthony Dollars Like a Pro
Start simple: Check grandma’s change jar or estate sales. Buy rolls from banks for uncirculated finds. Join clubs like the American Numismatic Association for swaps. Store in albums to preserve luster. Sell via eBay or auctions like Heritage – but grade first with PCGS or NGC. It’s an affordable entry to rare coins; build sets by year and mint.
Top Notable Facts and Auction Records
Over 888 million SBA dollars were minted, yet errors make stars. Fun fact: The reverse nods to Apollo 11. In 1999, a gold-toned mule on Sacagawea planchet sold for $16,100. A quarter-overstruck SBA fetched $13,200. But the crown? A 1981-P in flawless MS68 condition – bold details, no wear – hit $21,600 at auction in 2022. Talk about change for the better!
Expert Tips: What to Look For in Rare Susan B. Anthony Dollars
Eye the rim: Wide on 1979-P? Jackpot. Check mint marks – blurry “S” means Type 1; sharp is rarer Type 2. Hunt doubled dies or off-centers under magnification. Avoid scratches; luster boosts value 10x. Use a loupe for date proximity. Pro insight: 1981 rare mint marks mimic “Wide AM” pennies – spot ’em early. Grade professionally to unlock true worth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all Susan B. Anthony dollars silver?
No, they’re copper-nickel clad. Silver rumors are myths.
What’s the rarest SBA dollar?
The 1979-P Wide Rim or 1981-S Type 2 proofs top lists.
How do I know if mine’s valuable?
Inspect for varieties, then get a free appraisal from PCGS.
Why did the SBA dollar fail?
Quarter confusion doomed circulation, but it lives on in collections.
Can I find one in change today?
Rarely, but 1999 issues pop up in vending returns.
Conclusion
In wrapping up, the Susan B. Anthony dollar isn’t just change – it’s a slice of history worth hunting. From wide rims to mint errors, these rare coins remind us treasures hide in plain sight. Grab a magnifier, check your stash, and who knows? Your next find could be $21,600 richer. Dive deeper into numismatics, share this with fellow hobbyists, or explore Morgan dollars next. What’s your SBA story? Drop it below!