This 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Shocked Collectors With Its Auction Price

The 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar was once considered one of the most ordinary modern coins in U.S. history. Produced in the millions and used heavily in circulation, many believed these dollars were worth little more than their face value.

That’s why collectors were stunned when a rare 1979 variety recently sold for thousands of dollars at auction. What makes this coin so valuable, and why did its price surprise so many in the numismatic community? Let’s break it down.

The History of the Susan B. Anthony Dollar

The Susan B. Anthony dollar was first introduced in 1979 and ran through 1981, with one final year of production in 1999. It was the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman, honoring women’s rights activist Susan B. Anthony.

Key details of the coin include:

• Weight: About 8.1 grams
• Diameter: 26.5 mm
• Metal: Copper-nickel clad
• Mints: Philadelphia, Denver, San Francisco

Despite its groundbreaking design, the coin was not widely loved. Its small size and similarity to a quarter caused confusion, making it less popular in circulation.

Why Did a 1979 Dollar Sell for So Much?

Normally, a 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar in circulation is worth $1 to $3. However, certain rare varieties and high-grade examples can fetch massive premiums.

The coin that shocked collectors was a 1979-P Wide Rim (Near Date) variety in Mint State condition, which sold for nearly $7,000 at auction. Another 1979-D example in a top grade brought over $12,000. These sales highlighted how rarity and condition can completely transform value.

Factors That Boosted the Value

Several factors explain why this particular coin reached such a high auction price:

1. Rare Variety – The “Wide Rim” version has the date placed closer to the edge of the coin, making it scarcer than the common “Narrow Rim” type.
2. High Grade – Coins graded MS67 or higher are nearly flawless, with exceptional strike and luster.
3. Collector Demand – With more people chasing registry sets and rare varieties, competition for top examples has soared.
4. Limited Survival in High Grade – Most of these coins circulated heavily, so pristine survivors are extremely rare.

Value Comparison: 1979 Varieties

Coin Variety	Approximate Circulated Value	High-End Auction Price	Notes
1979-P Narrow Rim	$1 – $3	Low premiums	Most common type
1979-P Wide Rim	$10 – $50	Up to $7,000	Scarce and highly collectible
1979-D (Denver)	$2 – $5	Over $12,000	Rare in top grade
1979-S (San Francisco)	$2 – $4	Up to $5,000	Proof and mint set coins valued higher

How to Spot a Valuable 1979 Dollar

If you have a 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar, here’s how to check if it could be valuable:

• Look at the rim: If the date is close to the edge, it’s the Wide Rim variety.
• Check the mint mark: P, D, or S will indicate where it was struck.
• Examine the condition: Coins with fewer scratches, strong luster, and sharp details are worth more.
• Consider grading: Submitting to a professional grading service can confirm the variety and increase value.

Why Collectors Are Excited

The recent auction highlighted a truth that excites coin collectors — even coins produced in huge numbers can hide rare gems.

The Susan B. Anthony dollar, often overlooked, has now become a hot topic in numismatic circles. Collectors are digging through old coin jars, hoping to uncover a Wide Rim treasure or a pristine high-grade example.

The 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar has proven that not all modern coins are destined to remain common. With auction results reaching $7,000 and beyond, this once-unloved coin has earned a place in the spotlight.

For everyday people, it’s a reminder to always check change carefully. That dollar coin in your drawer might just be a hidden treasure worth thousands.

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