Susan B Anthony Coin Value and Prices
Posted by Andrew Adamo on Sep 4th 2024
Susan B Anthony Coin Value
Curious about the value of a Susan B Anthony coin? These coins were produced by the United States Mint from 1979 to 1981 and once more in 1999. While they're not frequently seen in circulation, most of them are common and not particularly expensive. Susan B. Anthony coin value varies and can reach 20 thousand dollars and more. With the correct knowledge, you can determine if you possess one of these more valuable coins.
History of the Susan B Anthony Coin
In 1979, the United States Mint launched the Susan B Anthony Coin, pinning hopes on this smaller dollar coin to become widely used in the U.S. The Treasury Department aimed to phase out $1 paper bills, anticipating significant savings in manufacturing costs.
The coin pays tribute to Susan B. Anthony, a key figure in the women's rights movement. On October 10, 1978, legislation authorized the release of this dollar coin. Frank Gasparro, the Chief Engraver at the United States Mint, was responsible for designing both sides of the coin, with his initials featured near the portrait's lower right on the obverse. Notably, this coin was the first in U.S. circulation to feature a real woman's portrait, rather than the traditional allegorical representation of Lady Liberty.
However, the public struggled to distinguish the new dollar coin from a quarter, leading to its rejection and a subsequent drop in demand. Production halted in 1981. In response to a request from the United States Postal Service, the Mint issued another batch of these coins in 1999. The following year, the Mint introduced the "Golden Dollar" featuring Sacajawea on the obverse, marking a new era in dollar coin design.
Market Analysis
While Susan B Anthony Coins haven't traditionally been a top choice for coin collectors, they are gradually becoming more popular. The limited production span of just four years makes it feasible to complete a collection with some assistance from a trusted coin dealer.
These coins, known for their relatively modest price and value, also enjoy a steady market, making them easier to sell. When you decide to sell your Susan B. Anthony coin, organizing and sorting them can help you maximize their value, as it allows coin dealers to quickly assess your collection. However, it's important to note that due to their low demand, these coins haven't seen significant appreciation in value.
Susan B Anthony Coin Key Dates and Varieties
The following Susan B. Anthony Dollars, in any condition, are worth considerably more than common SBA dollars.
- 1979-P Wide Rim Variety
- 1979-S Proof Type 2 (clear "S" mintmark)
- 1981-S Proof Type 2 (flat "S" mintmark)
1979 "Near" & "Wide" Rim Susan B. Anthony Dollar 2pc Collection
https://bullionsharks.com/1979-near-wide-rim-susan-b-anthony-dollar-2pc-collection/
Condition or Grading
If your Susan B Anthony coin (SBA) shows wear, it's classified as a circulated coin. Should the coin be heavily worn, its value will not exceed its face value.
On the other hand, if your SBA coin shows no signs of wear from circulation, it's categorized as an uncirculated coin. It's important to note that even uncirculated coins can have minor nicks and scrapes, which are a result of handling during minting, rather than from being circulated. These imperfections should be minimal and not due to usage in transactions.
Susan B Anthony Coin Mint Marks
The mint produced Susan B Anthony coins at three different mints: Philadelphia ( P), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S). As illustrated in the photo below, the mint mark is located on the obverse of the coin, in the lower left-hand area, just above the shoulder of Susan B Anthony.
Location of the mint Mark on the Susan B Anthony dollar coin.
Susan B Anthony Coin Value
The "buy price" refers to the amount you would typically pay a coin dealer to acquire the coin. Conversely, the "sell value" is the amount you can expect to get from a coin dealer when you sell the coin. The values provided here are rough estimates of retail prices and wholesale values. The specific offer you get from a coin dealer will depend on the coin's actual grade and various other factors influencing its value. Additionally, since many collectors are interested in the proof version of these coins — the highest quality produced by the United States Mint — the values and prices for these proof coins are also included.
| Susan B Anthony Coin (1979-1999) |
|
SBA Value Range |
| 1979-P SBA $1 Narrow Rim Far Date MS |
|
$2.65 - $1,880 |
| 1979-P SBA $1 Wide Rim Near Date MS | $20.25 - $1,190 | |
| 1979-D SBA $1 MS | $2.65 - $1,560 | |
| 1979-S SBA $1 MS | $3.38 - $4,380 | |
| 1980-P SBA $1 MS | $2.65 - $1,880 | |
| 1980-D SBA $1 MS | $2.65 - $293 | |
| 1980-S SBA $1 MS | $2.65 - $520 | |
| 1981-P SBA $1 MS | $2.65 - $1,380 |
| Complete Date-Mint Set Total Coins: 11 |
| Complete Date-Mint Set With Proof and Varieties Total Coins: 18 |
| Complete Date Set Total Coins: 4 |
Susan B Anthony Coin 1979
The year 1979 holds a significant place in American history, marking a period of transition and setting the stage for the introduction of the Susan B Anthony coin (SBA). This coin's value and collectibility are influenced by several historical and cultural factors from that era.
Susan B Anthony Coin 1979-P SBA $1 Narrow Rim Far Date MS SBA Value Range $2.65 - $1,880
Susan B Anthony Coin 1979-P SBA $1 Wide Rim Near Date MS SBA Value Range $20.25 - $1,190
Susan B Anthony Coin 1979-D SBA $1 MS SBA Value Range $2.65 - $1,560
Susan B Anthony Coin 1979-S SBA $1 MS SBA Value Range $3.38 - $4,380
The late 1970s in the United States were characterized by economic challenges, including inflation and energy crises. These conditions influenced public perception and acceptance of new coinage. The introduction of the SBA dollar was part of a broader effort to modernize the U.S. currency system and address issues related to coin usage, especially the replacement of the heavier and larger Eisenhower dollar with a more practical and cost-effective option.
Susan B Anthony Coin Errors
1. 1979-P Wide Rim (Near Date)
While not an error per se, the 1979-P Wide Rim, also known as the Near Date variety, is one of the most sought-after varieties among SBA dollars. This variety features the date and mint mark closer to the rim compared to the more common Far Date design. It's not an error but a variation that occurred during the minting process, making it more scarce and desirable.
2. Die Adjustment Strikes
Die adjustment strikes occur when the minting press is not set with the correct pressure, resulting in coins that are weakly struck or have missing details. While not unique to the Susan B Anthony coin series, die adjustment strikes are considered errors and can be found among these coins.
3. Off-center Strikes
Off-center strikes happen when the coin blank is not properly centered in the press during striking. This error can vary from slight to extreme, with some coins missing a significant portion of their design. Off-center Susan B Anthony coin is rare and collectible.
4. Blank Planchets
A blank planchet error occurs when the coin blank (planchet) misses the striking process altogether and is left without any design. Finding a blank planchet that was intended for an SBA dollar can be a unique addition to a collection.
5. Clipped Planchets
Clipped planchets result from mistakes in the blank cutting process, leading to coins with irregular or clipped edges. These errors can vary in size and shape, making each clipped planchet coin somewhat unique.
6. Double Strikes
Double strikes occur when a coin is struck more than once by the coin press, resulting in overlapping designs. Double-struck Susan B Anthony coins, especially those with dramatic errors, are highly prized by collectors.
7. Gas Bubbles
Some SBA dollars exhibit gas bubbles within the coin's metal, caused by contaminants or issues during the annealing process. These bubbles can cause small raised areas on the coin's surface and, in some cases, may lead to cracking or peeling of the coin's surface layers.
FAQ
What is a Susan B Anthony coin?
The Susan B. Anthony dollar is a U.S. coin that was first minted in 1979 and features Susan B. Anthony, a pioneer for women's rights. It was designed to replace the larger Eisenhower dollar, making it more convenient for vending machine use and other transactions.
When was the Susan B Anthony dollar made?
The Susan B. Anthony dollar was minted from 1979 to 1981, and then again in 1999. The 1999 series was minted to meet the demands of vending machines before the introduction of the Sacagawea dollar in 2000.
Why did the Susan B Anthony dollar fail?
The Susan B. Anthony dollar is often considered a failure due to public confusion between the coin and the quarter, as they were similar in size and color. Additionally, there was little effort to remove the similar-sized Eisenhower dollars from circulation, contributing to this confusion.
How much is a Susan B Anthony coin worth?
Most circulated Susan B. Anthony dollars are worth only their face value of one dollar. However, uncirculated coins and special varieties like the 1979-P Near Date (or Wide Rim) can be worth more.
What makes some Susan B Anthony coin more valuable than others?
Certain mint marks and production varieties, such as the 1979-P Wide Rim (also known as the Near Date) and proof coins, tend to be more valuable. Coins in higher grades (uncirculated or proof condition) also typically hold more value.
How can you tell if a Susan B Anthony coin is rare?
Look for the mint mark and the year. Coins from 1981, produced only for collectors and not for circulation, tend to be rarer. The 1999 minting is also less common. Check the rim of the 1979-P dollar; the Wide Rim version is rarer than the common variety.
Are there any errors or special features in Susan B Anthony coins?
There are few notable errors in this series, but the 1979-P Wide Rim variant is one of the most sought-after by collectors due to its distinctiveness from the more common Far Date design.
What are the key dates for Susan B. Anthony dollars?
Key dates include 1981 coins (which had a very low circulation release and were mostly sold in collector sets) and the 1999 coins due to their lower mintage.
Where can you sell Susan B. Anthony dollars?
These coins can be sold at coin shops, online, at auctions, or through coin shows. If you have a coin that you believe is of higher value, consider selling it through a reputable auction house or online marketplace that specializes in coins.
What should you do if you find a Susan B Anthony coin?
First, identify the year and mint mark. If it's a common coin from 1979 to 1980, it might not be worth more than face value unless in uncirculated condition. However, if it's a 1981 or 1999 issue, or the 1979-P Wide Rim, it could have additional collector value. Consider having the coin appraised or graded if it appears to be in excellent condition.
What specific features or marks should collectors look for to identify the 1979-P Wide Rim Variety?
To identify the 1979-P Wide Rim Variety, collectors should closely examine the spacing between the date and the rim of the coin. The Wide Rim, also known as the Near Date variety, features the date and mint mark noticeably closer to the coin's outer edge compared to the standard issue, where there is a more significant gap. Additionally, the wide rim itself is a distinguishing feature; it gives the coin a slightly different profile and appearance when viewed from the side. Collectors may also look for Frank Gasparro's initials, which are near the portrait's lower right on the obverse, though these are present on all Susan B. Anthony dollars and not unique to the Wide Rim variety. The key is in the details of the coin's rim and the proximity of the date to that rim.
How do coin collectors and experts differentiate between circulated and uncirculated SBA coins, beyond the obvious signs of wear?
Differentiating between circulated and uncirculated Susan B. Anthony (SBA) coins involves examining the coin's surface for signs of wear, handling, and contact with other coins. Circulated coins typically show signs of wear, especially on the high points of the design, such as Susan B. Anthony's cheekbone and the eagle on the reverse. In contrast, uncirculated coins retain their original mint luster across the entire surface, including these high points. Even uncirculated coins can have minor nicks and scratches from the minting process or handling before they were put into circulation. However, these marks are usually less pronounced and result from the coin's production and packaging rather than from being used in transactions. Examining the coin under a magnifying glass can help in identifying these subtle differences.
Are there any notable auction sales or records for Susan B. Anthony coins that have significantly exceeded their estimated value ranges?
Regarding notable auction sales or records for Susan B. Anthony coins that have significantly exceeded their estimated value ranges, while the article does not provide specific examples, there have been instances where rare varieties or exceptionally high-grade SBA coins have sold for prices well above their general market values. Particularly sought-after are coins with errors or those graded in a near-perfect condition by reputable grading services. These can fetch premium prices at auctions, driven by their rarity and demand among collectors. For example, proof coins or those with a specific mint error, like off-center strikes or double dies, can achieve remarkable prices. However, the exact records would depend on the coin's rarity, condition, and the market demand at the time of the sale, highlighting the importance of staying informed about recent auction results and market trends for collectors interested in the investment aspect of coin collecting.
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