Imagine finding a dollar coin in your pocket worth nearly a million bucks! The 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar, a coin you might still spot in change, has some rare versions fetching up to $891,000 at auctions. These small, golden-looking coins were made to honor a women’s rights hero, but a few stand out because of minting mistakes or perfect condition. Could one be in your wallet? Let’s dive into why these coins are so valuable and how to check your change before it’s too late.
A Coin With a Special Story
The Susan B. Anthony Dollar was America’s first circulating coin to feature a real woman, Susan B. Anthony, who fought for women’s right to vote. Launched in 1979, it was meant to replace paper dollar bills but wasn’t super popular. The coin’s small size and similarity to quarters confused people, so it didn’t catch on. The U.S. Mint made millions, but some rare ones from 1979 are now collector’s treasures. Social media, like posts on X, keeps the buzz alive with stories of folks finding these in cash registers or old piggy banks.
Why Some Are Worth a Fortune
Not every Susan B. Anthony Dollar is a jackpot. The ones worth big money, like a 1979-P Wide Rim variety that sold for $891,000, are rare because of unique features. The “Wide Rim” means the rim around the date is thicker, and the date sits closer to it. Other valuable ones include proof coins in perfect shape or errors like off-center strikes. A 1979-S Type 2 proof with a clear “S” mint mark can also fetch thousands. These rarities make collectors go wild, driving up prices.
Here’s a quick look at valuable 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollars:
| Year | Type | Estimated Value | Why It’s Rare |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1979-P | Wide Rim | Up to $891,000 | Thicker rim, rare variety |
| 1979-S | Type 2 Proof | $5,000-$15,000 | Clear “S” mint mark, perfect condition |
| 1979-P | Off-Center Strike | $500-$2,000 | Misaligned design, minting error |
How to Spot a Million-Dollar Coin
Got some dollar coins? Time to play treasure hunter! Check the date for 1979 and look for a “P” (Philadelphia mint) on the left side of Susan’s face. For the Wide Rim, grab a magnifying glass and see if the date is close to the rim with a thick border. For 1979-S coins, check if the “S” mint mark is sharp, not blurry. Proof coins look shiny and mirror-like. If you think you’ve got a rare one, don’t clean it—take it to a coin grader like PCGS or NGC to get its true value.
Why the $891,000 Sale Is Big News
The $891,000 sale of a 1979-P Wide Rim coin has sparked a coin-hunting frenzy. Coin shops report more people bringing in Susan B. Anthony Dollars, hoping for a big payday. X posts are full of tips on spotting rare coins, with some claiming values as high as $1 million, though $891,000 is the confirmed record. The coin market is hot, and with these dollars still in circulation, anyone could stumble across a gem. But experts warn: verify your find to avoid fakes or overhyped claims.
Time to Check Your Change
Could a life-changing coin be in your pocket? It’s worth a peek! Susan B. Anthony Dollars still pop up in change, vending machines, or old collections. Start by checking your coins for 1979 dates and rare features like the Wide Rim. Be careful of scams—some try to pass off common coins as rare. For serious hunters, connect with a coin club or visit the U.S. Mint’s website for tips. Digging through your change is a fun, free way to hunt for treasure, and you might just find a dollar worth way more than a buck!
