The Susan B. Anthony Dollar was introduced in 1979 as a groundbreaking coin in U.S. history. It honored Susan B. Anthony, a tireless activist for women’s rights and suffrage, making it the first circulating American coin to feature a real woman. While it carried enormous cultural significance, the coin was not warmly embraced by the public. Its size and silver-colored composition made it too similar to the quarter, creating confusion in everyday transactions. Despite this lukewarm reception, the series has since gained prestige in the world of numismatics.
The Rare 1981 Edition Worth $880,000
While most Susan B. Anthony Dollars are worth only face value, the 1981 edition has produced some of the rarest and most valuable examples. Certain coins from that year, particularly proofs or those with special minting errors, have been valued at astonishing amounts—one even reaching $880,000. This extraordinary price is due to a combination of rarity, flawless preservation, and collector demand. Such a coin transforms what many consider a common piece of pocket change into one of the most coveted treasures in modern American coinage.
Could the $880,000 Coin Still Be in Circulation?
One of the most intriguing aspects of this coin’s story is the chance that a rare 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar could still be hiding in circulation. Because the coin was unpopular, many were stored in banks, sealed in rolls, or tucked away in drawers and coin jars. This means some rare editions might still surface unexpectedly. For collectors, the idea that a coin worth nearly a million dollars could appear in ordinary change fuels the excitement and keeps the legend alive.
The Mintmark That Makes the Difference
What truly sets the $880,000 coin apart is the mintmark. Found near the date on the coin, mintmarks such as “S” for San Francisco, “P” for Philadelphia, or “D” for Denver help identify where the coin was struck. In 1981, proof coins with the “S” mintmark and certain variations in the strike became highly sought after. Condition is also key—coins graded as “proof” or “mint state” with no blemishes are exponentially more valuable. Collectors carefully study these small details to separate ordinary coins from extraordinary ones.
Summary of $880,000 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
| Feature | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Years Minted | 1979–1981, 1999 |
| Honoree | Susan B. Anthony, women’s rights activist |
| Estimated Rare Value | Up to $880,000 |
| Regular Circulation Value | $1 |
| Key Rarity Factors | Mint errors, proof coins, pristine condition |
| Mintmark to Watch For | “S” (San Francisco proof coins) |
| Still in Circulation? | Rare, but possible |
| Cultural Significance | First U.S. coin to feature a real woman |
The Cultural and Historical Legacy
Beyond financial value, the Susan B. Anthony Dollar represents an important cultural milestone. It marked a major step toward gender representation in U.S. coinage, honoring a woman who dedicated her life to equality. Though it circulated only briefly, the coin remains a lasting reminder of progress and change. Its symbolism ensures that even common examples, while not highly valuable, remain cherished pieces of American history.
Why Collectors Still Search for It
The combination of rarity, historical symbolism, and the thrill of possibly uncovering a fortune makes the Susan B. Anthony Dollar endlessly fascinating to collectors. For some, it is an investment; for others, it is a meaningful tribute to Susan B. Anthony’s legacy. And for many, the possibility of discovering one of the rarest editions—worth hundreds of thousands of dollars—turns the hunt into a lifelong pursuit.
Frequently Asked Questions(the 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar)
Q1: When was the Susan B. Anthony Dollar minted?
It was minted between 1979 and 1981, with a brief revival in 1999.
Q2: Why is the 1981 edition so valuable?
Its value comes from rarity, special proof strikes, mint errors, and coins preserved in flawless condition.
Q3: How can I identify a rare 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar?
Look for the mintmark near the date—especially the “S” proof mintmark—and check the coin’s condition. Professional grading can confirm its rarity.
Q4: Can these coins still be found in circulation?
Yes, although rare. Some may still appear in bank rolls, coin jars, or old collections.
Q5: Are all Susan B. Anthony Dollars valuable?
No, most are worth only $1 or slightly more. Only specific rare editions, especially from 1981, can be worth large sums.
Final Thought
The 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar is a coin that blends rarity, history, and symbolism into one powerful piece of American numismatics. While most are worth little more than their face value, the rarest editions have reached prices as high as $880,000. Its legacy as the first U.S. coin to honor a real woman ensures its place in history, while its potential value keeps collectors searching. Whether found in a bank roll, a forgotten coin jar, or at a major auction, the Susan B. Anthony Dollar proves that even modern coins can carry extraordinary stories—and fortunes.
