Missed Call

Is Your 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Worth $880,000? Here’s What to Look For

Imagine pulling a dollar coin from your wallet and discovering it’s worth nearly a million bucks. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, for coin collectors, that dream could be reality with the 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar, a coin that’s sparked fascination due to its rare varieties and jaw-dropping auction prices. But is this valuable coin still out there in circulation, waiting to be found? And what’s the secret mark that could make you rich?

we’ll dive into the world of the Susan B. Anthony Dollar, uncover its history, reveal why it’s so sought-after, and share tips on spotting that million-dollar mark. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious about hidden treasures, keep reading to learn how to strike coin gold!

What Is the Susan B. Anthony Dollar?

The Susan B. Anthony Dollar is a small, silver-colored U.S. coin minted from 1979 to 1981, with a brief revival in 1999. It was the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman (not a symbolic figure like Lady Liberty), honoring the suffragist and women’s rights advocate Susan B. Anthony. Measuring just 26.5 mm in diameter, it’s often mistaken for a quarter due to its similar size and reeded edge, which led to its unpopularity in everyday use.

Despite its short run, the coin has become a collector’s darling, especially the 1981 issues, thanks to rare mint errors and varieties that can fetch staggering prices. For example, a pristine 1981-S Susan B. Anthony Dollar with a specific mint mark variation sold for $880,000 at auction, making it one of the most valuable modern U.S. coins.

A Brief History of the Susan B. Anthony Dollar

The Susan B. Anthony Dollar was born out of necessity. In the late 1970s, the U.S. Mint faced pressure to replace the bulky Eisenhower Dollar with a smaller, more practical coin. At the same time, vending machine companies wanted a dollar coin that worked better in their systems. Congress also saw an opportunity to honor a historical figure, choosing Susan B. Anthony for her role in securing women’s right to vote.

The coin debuted in 1979 with high hopes but quickly flopped. Its size and weight were too close to a quarter, causing confusion at cash registers. By 1981, production dwindled, with most coins minted for collectors rather than circulation. The Mint halted production after 1981, only reviving it briefly in 1999 to bridge the gap before the Sacagawea Dollar launch.

Key Production Years

YearMintsCirculation Notes
1979P, D, SHigh mintage (over 600 million), common in circulation
1980P, D, SLower mintage, less common
1981P, D, SMostly for collectors, rare in circulation
1999P, DLimited revival, widely circulated

Why Is the 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar So Valuable?

The 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar’s value skyrockets due to its rarity, mint errors, and high-grade specimens. Unlike the 1979 coins, which were minted in massive quantities, the 1981 coins had much lower production runs, especially at the San Francisco Mint (S). Most 1981 coins were struck for proof sets or uncirculated collector sets, meaning few entered everyday circulation.

Rare Varieties and Errors

Certain 1981-S coins feature a “Clear S” mint mark, a variation where the “S” is sharply defined rather than the more common “Filled S” or “Blob S.” This Clear S variety, especially in high-grade condition (like MS-67 or above), is incredibly rare and can command prices up to $880,000 at auction. Mint errors, like off-center strikes or double dies, also boost value significantly.

High Auction Prices

In recent years, top-grade 1981-S Clear S coins have shattered records. For instance:

  • 2023 Auction: A PCGS-graded MS-68 1981-S Clear S sold for $880,000.
  • 2021 Sale: An NGC-graded MS-67 fetched $425,000.

These prices reflect the coin’s scarcity and the growing demand among collectors for modern rarities.

Is the 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Still in Circulation?

Yes, it’s possible—but unlikely—to find a 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar in circulation. Since most 1981 coins were minted for collectors, they rarely made it into everyday use. However, some may have slipped into circulation through bank rolls or as change from collectors cashing in their sets. Your best bet? Check pocket change, coin rolls from banks, or even old vending machine returns.

Where to Look

  • Bank Rolls: Request dollar coin rolls from your local bank.
  • Coin Shops: Browse ungraded lots for hidden gems.
  • Estate Sales: Look for coin collections from the early 1980s.
  • Online Marketplaces: Check eBay or Etsy, but beware of fakes.

While finding an $880,000 coin in your change is a long shot, even a circulated 1981-S in good condition can fetch $10–$50, making the hunt worthwhile.

The Mark to Look For: Identifying Rare Varieties

To spot a potential $880,000 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar, you need to focus on the mint mark. Here’s what to look for:

The Clear S Mint Mark

  • Location: On the obverse (front), to the left of Susan B. Anthony’s portrait.
  • Clear S vs. Filled S: The Clear S is sharp and well-defined, with no blurring. The Filled S (or Blob S) looks smudged or filled in, reducing value.
  • Magnification: Use a 10x loupe or magnifying glass to inspect the mint mark closely.

Other Valuable Features

  • Condition: Coins graded MS-65 or higher by PCGS or NGC are most valuable.
  • Errors: Look for off-center strikes, double dies, or thick rims.
  • Proof Coins: Some 1981-S proof coins with the Clear S are also highly prized.

Comparison Table: Clear S vs. Filled S

FeatureClear S (Rare)Filled S (Common)
Mint Mark AppearanceSharp, distinct “S”Blurry, filled-in “S”
Value (MS-67)$100,000–$880,000$10–$50
RarityExtremely rareCommon in proof sets
Collector DemandHighModerate

Notable Facts and Auction Records

The Susan B. Anthony Dollar is full of fascinating trivia and record-breaking sales that keep collectors hooked. Here are some highlights:

  • First Woman on a U.S. Coin: Susan B. Anthony was the first real woman featured on a circulating U.S. coin.
  • Shortest Dollar Series: Minted only from 1979–1981 and 1999, it’s one of the shortest-lived U.S. dollar coins.
  • Record Sale: The $880,000 sale of a 1981-S Clear S in 2023 is among the highest for any modern U.S. coin.
  • Mint Errors: A 1979 Wide Rim variety and 1981 off-center strikes are also highly sought-after.
  • Collector Community Buzz: Posts on coin forums like CoinCommunity.com show growing interest in graded SBA collections.

Expert Tips for Coin Collectors

Ready to start hunting for that rare 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar? Here’s advice from seasoned collectors to boost your chances:

  1. Learn to Grade Coins: Familiarize yourself with coin grading scales (e.g., Sheldon Scale) to spot high-grade specimens. Apps like PCGS CoinFacts can help.
  2. Invest in Tools: A quality loupe (10x–20x) and a good light source are essential for inspecting mint marks and errors.
  3. Join Collector Communities: Forums like CoinCommunity.com or Reddit’s r/coins offer tips and news on rare finds.
  4. Authenticate Your Finds: Always get valuable coins graded by PCGS or NGC to verify authenticity and condition.
  5. Stay Patient: Finding a rare coin takes time, but the thrill of the hunt is half the fun!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What makes the 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar so valuable?

The 1981-S coins with a Clear S mint mark in high-grade condition (MS-65 or above) are extremely rare, driving values up to $880,000 due to collector demand and low mintage.

Can I still find a 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar in circulation?

It’s rare but possible, as some coins may have entered circulation from collector sets or bank rolls. Check pocket change, bank rolls, or coin shops.

How do I spot the Clear S mint mark?

Use a magnifying glass to inspect the “S” mint mark left of Susan B. Anthony’s portrait. A sharp, distinct “S” is the valuable Clear S; a blurry one is the common Filled S.

Are all Susan B. Anthony Dollars worth a lot?

No, most are worth $1–$10 unless they’re rare varieties like the 1981-S Clear S or have mint errors. Condition and grading also matter.

Where can I sell a rare Susan B. Anthony Dollar?

Reputable auction houses like Heritage Auctions, or grading services like PCGS or NGC, are great options. Avoid unverified online buyers to prevent scams.

Conclusion: Start Hunting for Your Treasure Today

The 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar is more than just a forgotten coin—it’s a potential treasure hiding in plain sight. With rare varieties like the Clear S mint mark fetching up to $880,000, this coin is a holy grail for collectors and a thrilling find for anyone checking their change. Whether you’re new to coin collecting or a seasoned numismatist, the hunt for this rare dollar offers excitement and the chance for a life-changing discovery.

So, grab a loupe, check your pocket change, and dive into the world of coin collecting. Who knows? Your next dollar could be worth a fortune! Share this post with fellow collectors, join a coin forum, or explore more rare coin guides to fuel your passion.

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