At first glance, the Susan B. Anthony dollar may seem like one of the most forgettable coins in American history. Often mistaken for a quarter due to its size and color, the coin was met with lukewarm reception when it debuted in 1979. But now, decades later, a rare version of the 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar has surfaced in collector circles—and it could be worth as much as $880,000. Even more shocking? It may still be hiding in plain sight, in circulation.
The Controversial Coin with a Historic Face
The Susan B. Anthony dollar was the first U.S. coin to honor a real woman from American history. It was minted between 1979 and 1981 (and briefly in 1999) and featured the suffragist’s portrait on the obverse, replacing the traditional symbolic female figure of Liberty.
Despite its good intentions, the coin was largely unpopular. Its near-identical size and color to the quarter made it confusing for the public and led to limited use. As a result, many of these coins were hoarded or forgotten. But among these seemingly ordinary coins lies a rare 1981 variety that could command close to a million dollars—if you know what to look for.
The $880,000 Susan B. Anthony Dollar: What Makes It So Valuable?
The specific coin fetching headlines is a 1981-S Susan B. Anthony dollar, but not just any version. It’s known as a “Type 2” Proof, with a sharply defined “S” mintmark. This refined mark is distinct from the more common, blob-like “Type 1” used earlier in the same year.
The Type 2 mintmark is the result of a different punch used during the production of proof coins at the San Francisco Mint. Type 2 versions were made in significantly smaller quantities, possibly under 700,000, making them rare—and in top-grade condition, incredibly valuable.
In auctions, a flawless, PR70 Deep Cameo version of the 1981-S Type 2 dollar has sold for as much as $880,000, making it one of the most valuable modern U.S. coins ever produced.
Still in Circulation? It’s Possible
While most 1981-S proof coins were sold in collector sets and not intended for everyday circulation, coins can and do slip through the cracks. Estate sales, bank rolls, and even pocket change from old collections may carry coins that were never graded or properly identified. That’s why it’s entirely possible that one of these rare 1981-S Type 2 dollars is still floating around in the wild—unrecognized and unappreciated.
Here’s the Mark to Look For
If you have a Susan B. Anthony dollar dated 1981, examine the mintmark just above the shoulder of Susan B. Anthony’s portrait. You’re looking for an “S” mintmark, but more specifically, you want to see:
- A sharply defined, clear “S” rather than a mushy or blobby one.
- A well-centered and symmetrical appearance, indicating the Type 2 punch.
- Crisp edges and mirror-like surfaces, particularly if it’s in proof condition.
If you think you have a potential match, it’s worth getting the coin professionally graded by PCGS or NGC. Even if it’s not the legendary $880,000 specimen, it could still fetch hundreds or even thousands depending on its condition and rarity.
How to Spot Other Valuable Susan B. Anthony Dollars
Though the 1981-S Type 2 proof is the crown jewel, there are other Susan B. Anthony dollars that collectors are willing to pay a premium for:
- 1979-P “Wide Rim” / “Near Date”: The rim appears thicker and the date is closer to the edge. Worth $100–$500 depending on condition.
- 1999-P Proofs: Not released for general circulation and often sought after by collectors.
- Mint Errors: Off-center strikes, double dies, or transitional planchet errors can increase value significantly.
Final Thought
The Susan B. Anthony dollar may have been misunderstood in its time, but today it’s experiencing a collector’s renaissance—especially when rare variations are involved. The 1981-S Type 2 Proof dollar stands as a perfect example: a coin once dismissed, now potentially worth $880,000. So, if you come across one of these silver-colored dollars, don’t just toss it aside. Take a closer look—you might be holding a historic fortune in the palm of your hand.
