What if the spare change in your car or coin jar could be worth a small fortune? One 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar recently sold for an astonishing $880,000, and the story behind it is as compelling as the woman it honors. While most people pass over these coins without a second thought, collectors know better — some of these pieces are among the rarest and most valuable in U.S. coin history.
Meet Susan B. Anthony: The Face Behind the Coin
Before diving into coin values, it’s important to understand the legacy of Susan B. Anthony. A trailblazer for women’s rights, Anthony spent her life fighting for suffrage and civil liberties. In 1979, she became the first real woman (not a symbolic figure like Lady Liberty) to appear on a circulating U.S. coin. The dollar bearing her image marked a powerful step in American history — not just for currency, but for culture.
Why the Susan B. Anthony Dollar Struggled in Circulation
Despite its historic design, the Susan B. Anthony dollar failed to gain public acceptance. The coin was too similar in size and color to a quarter, leading to widespread confusion. It was often mistaken in transactions and rejected by vending machines. As a result, millions of coins sat unused in vaults or were melted down, turning this short-lived series into a collector’s niche.
The 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar: Rare, Limited, and Valuable
The 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar is especially rare. It was minted exclusively for collectors — not for public circulation. This limited production run and the pristine condition of surviving proof coins have made it one of the most sought-after versions in the series.
What Makes the $880,000 Coin So Special?
Only a handful of coins meet the criteria to command such a high price tag. The $880,000 Susan B. Anthony dollar had these features:
- PR70 Grade: The coin was professionally graded as PR70 — a perfect score with zero visible imperfections.
- Proof Coin: Mirror-like surfaces and frosted design details set proof coins apart. These are struck multiple times for sharper definition.
- San Francisco Mint: Identified by the “S” mint mark above Anthony’s shoulder. In 1981, only proof coins were produced at this mint.
- Authentication: The coin was certified by PCGS or NGC, two of the most trusted grading services in numismatics.
How to Spot a Rare Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Think you might have one of these gems? Here’s what to check:
- Date: Look for 1981 — the rarest production year outside of the 1999 reissue.
- Mint Mark: “S” indicates a San Francisco proof. You’ll find it just above Anthony’s shoulder.
- Surface: Proof coins are shiny, with a reflective background and frosted images.
- Condition: Coins with no scratches, blemishes, or wear are worth significantly more.
Realistic Values: What Your Coin Might Be Worth
While the $880,000 sale is extraordinary, most Susan B. Anthony dollars fall into more modest price ranges:
- Circulated Coins: Face value ($1)
- Uncirculated Coins: $3–$25
- Proof Coins: $50–$500
- Perfect Proofs (PR70): $2,000–$10,000+
The Grading and Authentication Process
If you suspect you own a valuable Susan B. Anthony dollar, proper grading is essential. Here’s what to do:
- Research: Compare your coin to verified examples from reliable sources.
- Consult a Dealer: Visit a local coin shop or numismatics expert for a preliminary evaluation.
- Professional Grading: Submit the coin to PCGS or NGC for official grading and encapsulation.
- Keep Documentation: Records of grading and provenance add value and credibility.
Why Collectors Are Still Obsessed in 2025
The Susan B. Anthony dollar continues to captivate collectors due to its unique historical significance and scarcity. As conversations around women’s rights and historical inclusion grow, so does interest in this important coin series.
Tips for New Coin Collectors
- Start Small: Begin with circulated coins to learn basic grading and features.
- Stay Educated: Read numismatic guides and follow trusted blogs or forums.
- Use a Magnifier: Examine mint marks, condition, and fine details closely.
- Join a Community: Connect with collectors online or through local coin clubs.
Final Thought: A Coin With a Story Worth Knowing
The Susan B. Anthony dollar might not have succeeded as everyday currency, but it remains a powerful symbol of progress — and, in rare cases, a gateway to serious profit. That coin in your change jar could be worth much more than a dollar. It could be a piece of history, a collectible treasure, or even a six-figure investment.
Before you spend it, take a closer look. You never know what might be hiding in plain sight.