Introduction
The Susan B. Anthony dollar, minted from 1979 to 1981 and briefly revived in 1999, was meant to honor the pioneering women’s rights leader while replacing the bulky Eisenhower dollar with a more practical size. Despite its short run and initial unpopularity (people often confused it with quarters), certain rare Susan B. Anthony dollars have become prized among collectors for their varieties, low mintages in key years, and dramatic errors. While most circulated examples trade near face value, high-grade specimens, proof finishes, and standout varieties like the 1979-P Wide Rim or 1981-S Type 2 Proof regularly fetch hundreds to thousands—or even tens of thousands—at auction. In 2026, with renewed interest in modern U.S. coin rarities, these valuable Susan B. Anthony dollars continue to outperform expectations. Here’s a breakdown of the most sought-after pieces that can turn a single dollar into serious money.
10 Most Valuable Susan B. Anthony Dollars & Varieties
- 1979-P Wide Rim (Near Date) Variety The date sits noticeably closer to the rim on this Philadelphia strike, creating a thicker border look compared to the common Narrow Rim. This scarcer obverse variety is one of the most collected in the series. Value: Circulated pieces start around $10–$30; gem uncirculated MS-65+ examples often sell for $500–$7,000+, with top-graded ones pushing higher due to strong demand.
- 1981-S Type 2 Proof The clearer, sharper “S” mint mark (from a new punch used late in production) distinguishes this proof from the earlier blob-like Type 1. Only in official proof sets, not circulation. Value: Standard proofs range $50–$100; pristine PR-69 or PR-70 Deep Cameo specimens have fetched $1,000–$21,600+ in recent auctions, making it a blue-chip modern proof.
- 1999-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar (High Grade) The final year of production had lower mintages as a bridge to the Sacagawea dollar. Pristine examples stand out in a series known for wear. Value: Circulated near face value; MS-67+ certified pieces sell for $500–$16,100+, especially with attractive luster and minimal marks.
- 1979-P Struck on Wrong Planchet Errors Dramatic mistakes like striking on a quarter planchet or other wrong blanks create unique off-metal rarities. Value: Verified examples have sold for $5,000–$15,000+ depending on the error type and grade—major auction highlights for error collectors.
- 1981-P & 1981-D Circulation Strikes (Low Mintage) These key dates saw limited release into circulation (mostly went to collectors), making nice uncirculated examples tougher to find. Value: MS-65+ pieces trade for $100–$1,000+; high-end MS-67 examples can reach several thousand.
- 1979-S Type 2 Proof (Clear S) Similar to the 1981-S, this late-1979 proof features the crisp mint mark punch. Value: PR-68 to PR-70 Deep Cameo examples command $100–$1,500+, with top pops driving premiums.
- High-Grade 1980-D Susan B. Anthony Dollar While not a key date, exceptional condition (MS-67+) stands out in a series where most circulated heavily. Value: MS-66 around $20–$50; MS-67 pieces have sold for $250–$900+ in auctions.
- 1979-P Doubled Die or Repunched Mint Mark Varieties Minor doubling on lettering or repunched “P” adds interest for variety hunters. Value: Strong examples in uncirculated condition range $50–$500+, with authenticated pieces fetching more.
- 1999-D Susan B. Anthony Dollar (Pristine Condition) Denver’s 1999 strike shares the low-mintage appeal of the year. Value: MS-66+ examples sell for $200–$2,000+, appealing to date-set completists.
- Major Off-Center or Double-Struck Errors Dramatic minting mistakes like significant off-center strikes or multi-struck coins create one-of-a-kind pieces. Value: Moderate errors $500–$3,000+; extreme examples have hit $5,000–$10,000+ in certified sales.
Conclusion
Susan B. Anthony dollars may have flopped in everyday use, but they’ve found new life as a collector favorite thanks to standout varieties, proof rarities, and occasional spectacular errors. The most valuable Susan B. Anthony dollars today—especially the 1979-P Wide Rim, 1981-S Type 2 Proof, and high-grade 1999 issues—prove that modern coins can deliver impressive returns when condition, scarcity, and eye appeal align. Check your change jars, old proof sets, or inherited collections for mint marks, rim spacing, and proof quality. Get potential gems graded by PCGS or NGC to unlock their full market value. In 2026, these overlooked dollars are quietly becoming serious numismatic prizes—your next find could be worth thousands!