The Susan B. Anthony Dollar was introduced in 1979 as a bold attempt to replace the dollar bill with a coin. Designed to honor Susan B. Anthony, a pioneering leader of the women’s suffrage movement, the coin featured her portrait on the obverse and a depiction of an eagle landing on the moon on the reverse. While the coin had great historical significance, its similar size to the quarter made it unpopular for circulation. However, despite its initial struggles, the 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar has remained a fascinating collectible. In 2026, certain rare varieties and minting errors have made this coin highly desirable, with some selling for hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
The History of the Susan B. Anthony Dollar
The Susan B. Anthony Dollar was a groundbreaking coin, as it was the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman—Susan B. Anthony—on its face. Designed by Frank Gasparro, the coin marked a historic moment for women in U.S. coinage. The reverse of the coin depicted an eagle landing on the moon, commemorating America’s achievements in space exploration.
Minted from 1979 to 1981, the Susan B. Anthony Dollar was briefly reissued in 1999 before being replaced by the Sacagawea Dollar. Although the coin failed to replace paper dollars in everyday circulation, its historical significance and unique design have made it a favorite among collectors.
In 2026, the value of these coins has risen, especially for certain rare varieties and errors, making them highly sought after by numismatists and collectors.
The 1979 Issue: Key to Collecting
The first year of issue, 1979, is particularly significant for collectors. Coins were struck at three mints: Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. Proof coins were exclusively produced at the San Francisco Mint. Though millions of coins were minted that year, some varieties and errors make 1979 coins stand out as rare and valuable.
Mint Marks and Varieties
Collectors pay close attention to mint marks and varieties when evaluating 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollars. The three mints that produced the coins each placed different mint marks:
- Philadelphia coins carry no mint mark.
- Denver coins are marked with a “D”.
- San Francisco coins carry an “S” mint mark.
One of the most noteworthy varieties is the 1979-S Type 1 and Type 2 proof coins. The Type 1 features a filled “S” mint mark, while the Type 2 has a clear “S”. The Type 2 coins are rarer and more valuable, making them highly coveted among collectors.
Famous Errors: Adding to the Appeal
Errors add excitement to any coin collection, and the 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar is no exception. Some of the most notable errors from this year include:
- Off-center strikes: Where the coin is not perfectly aligned during the minting process.
- Doubled dies: Where certain design elements, like letters or numbers, appear doubled due to a misalignment in the die.
- Coins struck on wrong planchets: Occasionally, coins were struck using the wrong metal blanks, leading to rare errors.
Among these, proof coins with striking anomalies are particularly prized by advanced collectors, as these anomalies are often more pronounced in proof coins compared to regular circulation strikes.
Value Chart Overview
Most 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollars in circulated condition are worth only face value, which is one dollar. However, the value increases for uncirculated examples and certain rare varieties:
- Uncirculated examples can range from $2 to $10, depending on their grade.
- Proof coins from the San Francisco Mint are more valuable, typically selling for $10 to $20 or more.
- The 1979-S Type 2 proof coins, which are rarer, often sell for $50 to $100, depending on their condition.
- Error coins can be worth significantly more, with certain off-center strikes or doubled die coins fetching hundreds or even thousands of dollars, depending on their rarity and condition.
Collecting Tips for Susan B. Anthony Dollars
For those interested in collecting Susan B. Anthony Dollars, several key factors can affect the coin’s value:
- Condition is Key: Coins should be stored in a way that prevents tarnishing or damage. Proof and mint mark varieties are best preserved in their original packaging.
- Focus on Rare Varieties: Advanced collectors typically focus on the rarer varieties, such as the 1979-S Type 2 proof coins or coins with minting errors.
- Certification Matters: Having your coins graded and certified by a reputable service can greatly increase their value, as it provides a professional opinion on their authenticity and condition.
- Start with Circulated Coins: Beginners can start by collecting common circulation strikes, which are often more affordable. Over time, they can seek out rarer varieties and errors to add to their collection.
Investment Potential
The 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar holds great investment potential, especially as the market for modern U.S. coins continues to grow. The coin’s historical significance as the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman adds to its appeal, while rarer varieties and error coins offer opportunities for significant returns.
As demand continues to rise, prices for high-grade coins and rare varieties have steadily increased. While not every coin will yield a fortune, the right piece can become a valuable addition to any portfolio, making the Susan B. Anthony Dollar a solid choice for both collectors and investors.
Key Highlights
- The Susan B. Anthony Dollar was introduced in 1979 to honor women’s suffrage leader Susan B. Anthony.
- Coins were struck at the Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco mints, with proof coins exclusively from San Francisco.
- The 1979-S Type 2 proof coin is rarer and more valuable than the Type 1, making it a top target for collectors.
- Error coins, including off-center strikes and doubled dies, are highly prized and can fetch hundreds or thousands of dollars.
- Most circulated coins are worth face value, but uncirculated and proof coins hold added value.
Final Words
The 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar remains an intriguing coin for collectors in 2026. As the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman, it marks a pivotal moment in American coinage history. Although most coins are common, rare varieties and error coins continue to captivate collectors, offering opportunities for discovery and profit. Whether you are an experienced collector or just starting, the Susan B. Anthony Dollar offers a unique blend of historical significance and investment potential. With patience and knowledge, you may uncover a coin that holds far more value than its face value, proving that even modern coins can be hidden treasures in the world of numismatics.