What if the coins you dismissed as “just a dollar” are now causing a stir among collectors and investors in 2025? The 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar—a coin many overlooked when it was first released—is suddenly back in the spotlight. The mystery? Some of these coins aren’t just worth one dollar; they can sell for hundreds, even thousands. Let’s uncover why this often-forgotten coin has become a hot topic again.
The Coin That Changed U.S. History
The Susan B. Anthony dollar, first struck in 1979, was the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman rather than a symbolic figure like Liberty. It honored Susan B. Anthony, a leader of the women’s suffrage movement. Though groundbreaking, the coin faced immediate criticism for its small size, which was often confused with a quarter, leading to public rejection.
Why 1979 Dollars Are Valuable Today
At face value, the coin is only worth one dollar. But to collectors, the 1979 series hides valuable varieties, minting errors, and proof strikes. Special versions like the 1979-P Wide Rim dollar or high-grade proofs are commanding premium prices in 2025.
The Varieties That Collectors Chase
| Coin Type | Key Feature | Value Range (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| 1979-P Narrow Rim | Standard issue | $1 – $5 |
| 1979-P Wide Rim (“Near Date”) | Date closer to rim | $50 – $500+ |
| 1979-S Proof Type 1 | Blob-like “S” mintmark | $10 – $40 |
| 1979-S Proof Type 2 | Sharper “S” mintmark | $50 – $250+ |
| 1979 Errors (off-center, double die, etc.) | Rare striking mistakes | $100 – $3,000+ |
Notable Auction Records
- A 1979-P Wide Rim dollar graded MS67 once sold for over $6,000.
- Certain 1979-S Proof Type 2 coins regularly fetch hundreds, depending on grade.
- Unique error coins can exceed five-figure prices when sold to collectors.
Why Collectors Care in 2025
With renewed interest in women’s history and U.S. coinage, the Susan B. Anthony dollar has gained symbolic and financial value. Collectors see it not only as a piece of currency but as a milestone in representation. Its rarity in circulation today adds to the mystique—finding one in your change feels like discovering buried treasure.
How You Can Benefit
- Check Your Change — You might already have a valuable 1979 dollar sitting unnoticed.
- Look for Key Varieties — The Wide Rim and Proof Type 2 are top priorities.
- Condition is King — Higher grades equal higher value; coins with no wear bring top dollar.
- Get Professional Grading — Services like PCGS or NGC confirm authenticity and maximize resale potential.
Expert Tips for Collectors
- Use a magnifier to spot mintmark details.
- Store coins in airtight holders to prevent wear.
- Watch online auctions to track real-world selling prices instead of relying only on price guides.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are all 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollars valuable?
A: No, most are worth only face value unless they are rare varieties or in high grades.
Q: How can I tell if mine is a Wide Rim dollar?
A: The date is closer to the rim than on the Narrow Rim version. Collectors call it the “Near Date.”
Q: Should I spend or keep a 1979 SBA dollar?
A: Keep it! Even common versions could grow in value, and rarer types already fetch strong prices.
Conclusion: A Dollar That Defied Expectations
The 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar may have been mocked as unpopular in its day, but in 2025, it’s proving its worth. From auction records to hidden varieties, these coins are making headlines for both their historical and monetary significance. If you’ve overlooked them before, now’s the time to check your collection—you might just be holding a coin worth far more than a dollar.
