The Susan B. Anthony dollar is one of the most discussed coins in American history — not because of its high circulation value, but because a few rare pieces are worth an unbelievable amount today. Among them, the 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar stands out, with some versions reportedly valued up to $880,000. But what makes this small silver-colored coin so special, and could one still be hiding in your pocket change? Let’s explore the fascinating story behind this coin and the features that could make it a hidden treasure.
The Story Behind the Susan B. Anthony Dollar
The Susan B. Anthony dollar was introduced in 1979 to honor one of America’s most influential women’s rights activists, Susan B. Anthony. It was the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman instead of a symbolic figure like Lady Liberty. The coin was designed to replace the larger Eisenhower dollar, making it more convenient for daily use. However, due to its similar size and color to a quarter, it caused confusion and failed to gain popularity among the public.
Despite its lack of success, the coin was minted for a few years—1979, 1980, and 1981—and then briefly returned in 1999. Most people didn’t pay much attention to it, which is why some rare variations managed to go unnoticed, eventually becoming valuable collectibles.
Why the 1981 Dollar Is So Rare
The 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar is special because it was not released for general circulation. That year, the U.S. Mint produced the coins mainly for collectors, which meant fewer were made and most were placed in mint sets rather than in circulation.
This limited production makes finding one in pocket change today extremely rare. Only around 3 million coins were produced from each mint location—Philadelphia (P), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S). Compared to other years, this number is very low. So, if someone happens to find one of these coins in daily change, it could be worth checking carefully for unique features that might make it even more valuable.
The $880,000 Coin: What Makes It Worth So Much
Not every 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar is valuable, but a few have features that make them worth a fortune. The coins that reach prices near $880,000 are usually proof coins or error coins—special versions that were either struck with extra care for collectors or made with rare minting mistakes.
One of the most famous examples includes double-die errors, where certain details like the lettering or the date appear slightly doubled. Others may show unusual mint marks, such as a misplaced “S” or “P.” These differences can dramatically increase a coin’s value, especially when the coin is still in near-perfect condition. Collectors often pay a premium for coins graded “PR70” or “MS70,” meaning they are flawless even under magnification.
How to Identify a Valuable 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
If you come across a Susan B. Anthony dollar, the first step is to check the date. If it says 1981, it’s worth taking a closer look. Turn the coin to find the mint mark, which is a small letter near Susan B. Anthony’s shoulder on the front side of the coin. A “P” means it was minted in Philadelphia, “D” in Denver, and “S” in San Francisco.
The “S” mint mark coins are typically more desirable because many of them were proof strikes made for collectors. Next, check for any strange markings or errors. If something looks off—like doubled letters or an oddly shaped mint mark—you might have a rare piece.
Lastly, the condition matters the most. A coin that’s shiny and has no visible scratches or wear can fetch thousands more than a worn one. It’s always best to have your coin evaluated by a professional grading service such as PCGS or NGC to know its true market value.
Are These Coins Still in Circulation Today?
Technically, yes. The U.S. Mint never officially removed Susan B. Anthony dollars from circulation, so they can still show up in change, though it’s extremely rare. Most people have forgotten about them, which means the few that remain might still be hiding in drawers, jars, or old collections.
Even though you might not find one in a store today, some banks still have small supplies, and collectors trade them online or at coin shows. So, while your odds are slim, it’s not impossible to find one in circulation.
Should You Keep or Sell a 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar?
If you discover a 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar, especially one with an “S” mint mark or an unusual error, it’s worth holding onto or having appraised. The value can vary widely depending on its condition, rarity, and grading. Some might only be worth a few dollars, but the rarest examples—like those proof errors—can reach unbelievable amounts, even approaching $880,000 in auctions.
Final Thoughts
The 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar is a small piece of American history that still captures the imagination of collectors and casual coin hunters alike. Its unique background, connection to an iconic figure, and the mystery of its hidden value make it one of the most intriguing coins in U.S. history. So next time you find an old dollar coin, take a closer look—you might be holding a treasure that could change your life.
FAQs
Is the 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar still worth only one dollar?
No, some versions—especially rare proof or error coins—can be worth hundreds, thousands, or even up to $880,000.
Where can I sell a rare Susan B. Anthony dollar?
You can sell valuable coins through certified coin dealers, auctions, or trusted online platforms for collectors.
How can I tell if my coin is a proof version?
Proof coins usually have a shiny, mirror-like surface and were made for collectors, not for circulation.