A Dollar Coin Worth a Fortune
Could a dollar coin in your change be worth nearly a million bucks? A rare 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar recently sold for $891,000 at auction, shocking collectors and sparking a hunt for more. These coins, with Susan B. Anthony’s portrait on the front and an eagle on the back, were made to honor the women’s rights pioneer. Most are worth just a dollar, but a few with special features are treasures. You might have one in your wallet or coin jar. Let’s explore what makes these coins so valuable and how to spot one.
Why Some Susan B. Anthony Dollars Are Special
The Susan B. Anthony Dollar was minted from 1979 to 1981 and briefly in 1999, but the 1979 coins are the most sought-after due to rare errors and limited runs. The $891,000 coin was a 1979-P with a “Wide Rim” error, where the rim around the date is thicker than usual, also called the “Near Date” variety. Only a small number were made before the mint fixed the design, making them super rare. Coins in pristine, uncirculated condition, graded MS-67 or higher by PCGS or NGC, fetch the highest prices, especially if they have unique mint marks or errors.
How to Spot a Valuable Coin
Here’s what to check for on a 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar:
- Wide Rim: Look for a thick rim near the date, where the date is close to the edge.
- Mint Mark: Check for a “P” (Philadelphia) under Susan B. Anthony’s portrait.
- Condition: Coins with no scratches or wear are worth more.
- Errors: Use a magnifying glass to spot doubled text or misaligned designs.
- Proof Coins: Some 1979-S proof coins, meant for collectors, have a clear “S” mark and can be valuable.
| Coin | Key Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1979-P Wide Rim | Thick rim near date | $10,000-$891,000 |
| 1979-S Proof | Clear “S” mark | $500-$5,000 |
| Factor | Value Boost |
|---|---|
| Uncirculated (MS-67+) | 10x-50x regular value |
| Minting Error | $1,000-$100,000 extra |
Where to Find These Coins
Susan B. Anthony Dollars were used as regular money, so they’re still in circulation. Check your change from stores, bank rolls, or old coin collections. One collector found a 1979-P Wide Rim in a vending machine, later valued at $15,000. Flea markets, estate sales, or family keepsakes might hold one too. Don’t clean coins, as this can ruin their value. Take any promising coin to a dealer or grading service like PCGS or NGC to confirm it’s real. Online sites like eBay or Heritage Auctions show what similar coins sell for, but watch out for fakes.
Tips for Selling
If you find a rare Susan B. Anthony Dollar, get it appraised by a professional. The $891,000 coin was certified by PCGS, which boosted its value at a recent auction. Research recent sales to know your coin’s worth, and work with trusted dealers or auction houses to avoid scams. Selling a high-value coin takes time, so be patient for the right buyer. The buzz around this sale has people checking their change, hoping for their own big find.
The Thrill of the Chase
The idea of a $891,000 dollar coin is exciting, and while most Susan B. Anthony Dollars are worth face value, rare ones like the 1979-P Wide Rim can bring life-changing sums. These coins are a piece of history, tied to the push for women’s equality in the late 1970s. Whether you’re a collector or just curious, check your change carefully. That dollar coin in your pocket could be worth way more than a buck, but you’d better look before it’s spent!
