Many people have old coins lying around without realising that one of them could be worth a fortune. The 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar is one such coin that continues to create buzz among collectors and treasure hunters. Recently, talk of a rare version of this coin being valued at around $880,000 has sparked new interest. But is this coin really still in circulation? And what makes it so valuable?
Why the 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Stands Out
The Susan B. Anthony dollar was first minted in 1979 and was in production until 1981, then briefly again in 1999. The coin was created to honour the women’s rights activist Susan B. Anthony and was the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman (not a fictional or symbolic figure). While many of these coins are still worth just a dollar today, a very small number of them are worth much more.
What sets the 1981 version apart is its limited release. These coins were never widely circulated and were mostly made for collectors. As a result, finding one in top condition today is extremely rare. If you happen to find a perfect one, it might be worth thousands — or more.
The Key Features That Make It Valuable
Not all 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollars are worth big money. The one being talked about as worth up to $880,000 is a rare proof coin in perfect condition, known as a Proof-70 Deep Cameo (PR70DCAM). This grade means the coin has no flaws under a 5x magnifying glass and has sharp contrast between the frosted image and the mirror-like background.
Here’s what to check for in your coin:
- Mint mark “S” (indicates it was made at the San Francisco Mint)
- Shiny, mirror-like finish with deep contrast
- No scratches or marks
- Sharp details in Susan B. Anthony’s portrait and the eagle on the back
Collectors also look at things like die alignment, strike quality, and whether the coin was part of a special mint set.
Quick Look: 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Values
| Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Circulated (common) | $1 to $10 |
| Uncirculated (MS65) | $50 to $100 |
| Proof PR70DCAM | Up to $880,000 (very rare) |
Most coins won’t reach anywhere near $880,000, but even those in great condition without the ultra-rare grading can still fetch a decent price.
Is It Still in Circulation?
Technically, yes. The Susan B. Anthony dollar is still legal tender and can be used like any other dollar coin. However, due to its size and similarity to a quarter, it fell out of favour quickly after release. Today, most people have never seen or used one in daily life. That said, a few might still be out there in piggy banks, drawers, or forgotten coin jars.
If you think you have a 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar, take a closer look. You never know what you might have in your hands.
What to Do If You Find One
If you come across a 1981 dollar coin, especially one with an “S” mint mark and a shiny finish, don’t spend it just yet. Take it to a coin shop or send it to a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC. They can confirm whether it’s one of the rare and valuable versions.
