Imagine finding a coin in your collection worth more than a mansion. 
That’s exactly what happened when a 1980-S Susan B. Anthony Dollar sold for a staggering $7,115,000—the only 1980 coin ever to cross the million-dollar mark.
So, what makes this coin so valuable—and how can you tell if you’ve got one? Let’s break it down.
The Record-Breaking 1980-S Dollar
In 2023, a PCGS PR-70DCAM (Proof 70 Deep Cameo) 1980-S Susan B. Anthony Dollar shocked the numismatic world by fetching $7.1 million at auction.
Key reasons it’s so valuable:
- Perfect Proof Grade (PR-70) → Flawless under 5x magnification.
- Deep Cameo Finish → Frosted designs with mirror-like fields.
- Unique Minting Errors → Multiple striking anomalies set it apart.
- Historical Rarity → No other 1980 coin has ever reached this level of value.
Identification Features of the $7M Coin
Mint Mark Verification
Must have an “S” mint mark (San Francisco).
“P” (Philadelphia) or “D” (Denver) coins do not qualify.
Error Characteristics
- Double Struck Obverse → Visible doubling on portrait rim.
- Misaligned Die → Secondary strike offset by ~15%.
- Broken Collar → Edge shows irregular reeding pattern.
Proof Specifications
- Weight: 8.1 grams
- Diameter: 26.5mm
- Thickness: ~2.0mm
- Finish: Deep cameo contrast (frosted designs + mirror fields).
How to Spot the $7 Million Error
Step 1: Surface Inspection 
Use a 10x loupe or magnifier to check for:
- Dual concentric rings around the edge.
- A faint “ghost” secondary portrait image.
- Slight misalignment between obverse and reverse designs.
Step 2: Edge Examination 
- Incomplete or irregular reeding (smooth patches).
- Slightly variable thickness (2.8–3.1mm).
- No seam lines—those indicate a fake cast coin.
Step 3: Weight & Balance Test 
- Must weigh exactly 8.1 grams (±0.01g tolerance).
- Compare against normal Susan B. Anthony dollars for consistency.
Normal vs. $7M Error Coin
| Feature | $7M Error Coin | Normal 1980 Coin |
|---|---|---|
| Strikes | Double struck | Single strike |
| Alignment | 15° misaligned | Perfectly centered |
| Edge | Irregular reeding | Uniform reeding |
| Finish | Deep cameo proof | Standard proof/business |
| Value |  $7,115,000 |
$1 – $50 |
Beware of Fakes
Because of its fame, this coin is heavily counterfeited. Watch out for:
- Electroplated copies → Wrong weight & sound.
- Altered mint marks → Tool marks visible under microscope.
- Cast replicas → Blurry details & uneven surfaces.
Verification & Authentication
If you think you’ve found a valuable error:
- Certification → Submit to PCGS or NGC under “Errors & Varieties.”
- Metal Testing → XRF analysis confirms composition.
- Provenance Check → Auction houses verify through Mint records.
