The world of American numismatics is filled with captivating coins, and among them, the 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar stands tall, commanding attention from coin fanatics and collectors alike. This unique coin features the portrait of Susan B. Anthony, a prominent figure in U.S. history, adding to its allure and significance.
Though initially intended for circulation as a medium of exchange, the 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar has now become a sought-after collectible. Its value is determined not only by its rarity but also by its condition. However, it’s the coins with specific ‘errors,’ particularly the elusive mule coins, that hold the highest value and are considered prized possessions for collectors.
In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the vivid history of the 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar, exploring its intrinsic value, notable errors, mint marks, and other interesting aspects. Whether you’re an avid collector or someone curious about the coins in your possession, read on to discover if you might be holding a rare Susan B. Anthony Dollar coin in your pocket!
Table of Contents
1979 Susan B Anthony Dollar Value
While the Anthony Dollar may not have achieved widespread recognition during its time in circulation, its significance in the realm of numismatics has only grown over the years. Today, let’s take a closer look at the present-day value of the 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollars, especially those minted in various regions.
- 1979 D Dollar Coin: Minted in Denver, these coins have the D mint mark on their left side above Susan B Anthony’s right shoulder. Irrespective of its state, this coin has the lowest value, except for the error coins.
- 1979 S Dollar Coin: Minted in San Francisco, these coins have the S mint mark right above Susan B Anthony’s right shoulder. You can get on this type of coin under uncirculated and rare conditions.
- 1979 P Wide Rim Dollar Coin: Minted in Philadelphia, these coins are date stamped close to their outer rim. These coins are scarce and hence, hold a premium value in terms of price.
- 1979 P Narrow Rim Dollar Coin: Minted in Philadelphia, these coins detail a thin and narrow rim. This coin holds little value, featuring its issuing year far from the rim. It is priced at a much lesser value compared to the wide-rim coin.
- 1979 S Proof Type 2 Dollar Coin: This coin has a special history and is a Type 1 twin. The total number of these coins available today is not known. Yet, this type 2 is usually less common and priced higher.
1979 Susan B Anthony Dollar Value Chart
Below is a tabular form of the 1979 Susan B Anthony Dollar Value.
| MINT MARK | GOOD ($) | FINE ($) | EXTREMELY FINE ($) | UNCIRCULATED STATE ($) |
| 1979 P Susan B Dollar | 1.05 | 1.10 | 2 | 2.50 |
| 1979 D Susan B Dollar | 1.05 | 1.10 | 2 | 2.50 |
| 1979 S Susan B Dollar | 1.05 | 1.10 | 2 | 2.28 |
| 1979 P Wide Rim Dollar | 6 | 10 | 30 | 67 |
| 1979 Proof S Type 1 | – | – | – | 7.80 |
| 1979 Proof S Type 2 | – | – | – | 55 |
The 1979 Susan B Anthony Dollar – History, Composition & Design
In the years 1979 to 1981 and 1999, the United States issued a new dollar coin, featuring the likeness of Susan B. Anthony, a pioneer in the women’s suffrage movement. For the first time, a woman graced the face of a US circulated coin, an honor long overdue for a prominent leader in the fight for women’s rights.
The primary objective behind the coin’s creation was to replace the small-sized Eisenhower Dollar, which had been in circulation for over a century, with a more practical coin suitable for use in coin-operated devices and vending machines.
Initially, the design called for an 11-sided polygonal shape, but it faced opposition from the vending machine industry. These machines only accepted round coins, leading to a modification of the design.
Frank Gasparro, the US Mint’s Chief Engraver at the time, was the mastermind behind the coin’s final design. He chose to feature Susan B. Anthony on the obverse and depicted an eagle and shield on the reverse, symbolizing the nation’s strength and unity.
Despite high hopes for the coin’s popularity, it failed to gain widespread acceptance. Many people expressed their dissatisfaction with the small size, which resembled the quarter dollar. This negative response resulted in a significant drop in production over the following years. Additionally, a lack of awareness about the coin’s historical significance and the influential figure it featured contributed to its limited use.
Eventually, the circulation of the Susan B. Anthony dollar came to a halt. Although the US Mint continued producing the coin until 1981, its primary purpose shifted to manufacturing collector sets. The year 1999 marked the end of the minting of Susan B. Anthony Dollar coins, leaving behind a token of history lost in circulation.
Composition of the 1979 Susan B Anthony Dollar
The 1979 dollar coin boasts a meticulous composition, with 91.67% of its outer layer crafted from copper and the remaining 8.33% from nickel. However, it is the coin’s captivating all-copper interior core that truly steals the show, adding to its unique allure. Additionally, the coin features a reeded edge, further enhancing its aesthetic appeal.
With a diameter of 26.5 mm and a weight of 8.1 g, the 1979 dollar coin possesses dimensions that reflect its importance. Interestingly, studies have shown that the public’s embrace of this coin was hindered by its relatively similar diameter to that of the quarter dollar (24.3 mm) and the half dollar (30.6 mm). This similarity may have caused confusion and contributed to the coin’s underappreciation during its circulation.
1979 Susan B Anthony Dollar Design
Obverse Side
The obverse side of the 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar showcases a prominent bust profile of Susan B. Anthony, facing right, and adorning the coin’s head. Adjacent to Anthony’s chin, the words “IN GOD WE TRUST” are elegantly engraved in smaller font.
Above and encircling the coin, the inscription “LIBERTY” proudly claims its place, while below, the issue year “1979” is skillfully engraved, encompassing the entire circumference of the coin. The combination of these elements creates a striking and symbolic representation of Susan B. Anthony, commemorating her pivotal role in the women’s suffrage movement.
Reverse Side
On the reverse side, a majestic left-facing eagle takes center stage, clutching a laurel in its powerful talons. The eagle is portrayed gracefully descending upon a moon, its expansive wings majestically outstretched. This poignant imagery serves as a direct tribute to the historic Apollo 11 moon landing.
Above the eagle’s noble head, the coin proudly displays Earth in the background, with a clear depiction of the North American map. Surrounding the entire edge of the coin, the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” are inscribed in bold, emphasizing the nation’s pride and identity.
Underneath this grand display, a smaller font carries the Latin phrase “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” which translates to “One from Many.” This powerful motto underscores the unity and diversity that define the United States of America, adding further significance to this remarkable coin’s design.
1979 Susan B Anthony Dollar Mintage
The 1979 Anthony dollars were either marked D (Denver), P (Philadelphia), or S (San Francisco), depending on the mint from which the coin was manufactured.
1979 D Susan B Anthony Dollar Value
Because the scarcity of identifiable flaws or errors, this Denver-minted Susan B. Anthony dollar coin is deemed less valuable compared to its counterparts from the same year, according to numismatic experts. Nevertheless, it still holds significant worth and is currently appraised at $2.28 for coins of extremely fine quality.
1979 S Susan B Anthony Dollar Value
Primarily, the San Francisco facility specializes in producing proof coins, which are distinctively crafted using a superior minting process tailored for collectors.
However, it wasn’t until 1979 that the commercial variety of these coins was introduced. Although they are relatively rare, you may stumble upon some exceptional uncirculated coins within mint sets. What adds to the intrigue is that a 1979 S-dollar coin in an uncirculated state holds a current value of $2.28.
1979 S Proof (Type 2) Susan B Anthony Dollar Value
The 1979-S Susan B. Anthony dollar coin boasts a distinguished and captivating history, making it a prized addition to any investor’s collection, with a market value of $55.
One intriguing aspect of the 1979 S dollar coin is its mint mark, which presents an interesting variation. Due to the use of an outdated die at the San Francisco mint, the mint mark on some coins is illegible, leading to their classification as the 1979-S proof type 1 by coin grading businesses.
However, the mint later rectified the issue by replacing the old die with a new one, resulting in a clearer S mint mark on subsequent coins. The improved design showcased serifs at the top and bottom of the S in the mint mark, classifying these as the type 2 Dollar.
As a coin with a fascinating background and a current value of $55, the 1979-S Susan B. Anthony dollar coin holds both historical significance and considerable worth for collectors and investors alike.
1979 P Narrow Rim Susan B Anthony Dollar Value
Among the two distinct planchets produced in Philadelphia bearing the P mint mark, the 1979 P Narrow Rim dollar holds the position as the second coin created. However, compared to its twin, the wide-rim near-date variety, this variant is considerably less valued, even when found in uncirculated conditions. At present, the 1979 P Narrow Rim dollar is appraised at $2.28.
1979 P Wide Rim Susan B Anthony Dollar Value
In 1979, the Philadelphia Mint unintentionally minted two distinct Anthony dollar coins, one of which is commonly known as the “wide-rim” variety. This particular design is characterized by the unusual closeness of the year “1979” inscription to the coin’s rim.
Due to their scarcity, these wide-rim coins hold higher value in numismatic circles. A 1979 P wide-rim coin can fetch anywhere between $6 and $10, depending on its condition at the time of minting. However, if you happen to come across a pristine, never-used specimen, its worth escalates to an impressive $67.
1979 Susan B Anthony Dollar Error List
Below are a few notable errors to check out in the 1979 Susan B Anthony Dollars.
1979 S Proof Type 1 (Blob Mint Mark)
The 1979 S proof type 1 dollar, minted in San Francisco, became an error coin due to an error known as the “blob error” or cud error in the mint mark. Blob errors occur when the striking dies become worn out, and to avoid the high expenses involved in producing new dies, operators tried to extend the life of existing dies as much as possible.
In the case of the 1979 S dollar, the punch used to press the mintmark into the die that year was outdated, rusty, battered, and worn out. As a result, instead of a neatly shaped “S,” the mint mark appeared as a blurry, indistinct “blob.” This unintentional outcome left the coin with a hazy S in its mint mark.
Due to its rarity and collector appeal, the 1979 S Proof Type 1 error coin holds a value of $7.88, making it a unique and sought-after piece among numismatic enthusiasts.
1979 Susan B Anthony Off-Center Strike
One common error that occurs during coin production is when the strike misses the center of the planchet, resulting in an off-center strike. This mistake causes the design to be partially lost, with 10-20% of the intended design not being preserved in the coin’s center.
Due to its rarity and collector appeal, an off-center Susan B. Anthony Dollar holds a significant value, ranging from $150 to $500. The uniqueness of this error makes it a prized addition to any numismatic collection.
1979 Susan B Anthony Wrong Planchet Error
This intriguing error occurs when the design of the SBA coin is embossed on a planchet note exclusively intended for the SBA coin. Undoubtedly, this is the most valuable and costly variety to date, fetching prices ranging from $10,000 to $20,000. Collectors prize this unique mistake for its rarity and significant worth, making it a highly sought-after addition to any numismatic collection.
1979 Susan B. Anthony Coin Clipped Planchet Error
A fascinating error that sometimes occurs is the clipped planchet error, where a portion of the metal planchet on one side of the coin is missing before striking. These mistakes are considered quite rare and add to the coin’s allure among collectors. If you happen to find a dollar coin honoring Susan B. Anthony with a clipped planchet fault, its value can reach up to $25, making it a valuable and sought-after addition to any numismatic collection.
1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Multiple Strikes Error
When several variations of the same kind appear on a coin, this is known as a multiple-strike mistake. These mistakes generally occur when a planchet gets stuck in a press and is tapped repeatedly. The cost of Susan B Anthony coins containing this mistake starts at $500.
1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Broadstrike Error
When the collar fails to hold the coin securely during striking, a broad strike error occurs, resulting in a flattened coin without the usual rim formation. These Susan B. Anthony broadstrike error coins are highly sought-after by collectors due to their uniqueness. Their value can range from $50 to $100, making them a valuable and desirable addition to any numismatic collection.
1979 Susan B Anthony Dollar Value: FAQs
How do you tell if you have a rare Susan B Anthony Coin?
Look for visible errors in the print. Check the placement of the date near the rim/edge. You can also look at the width of the date, specifically the number 1. If the width of the number is the same as the rim, you have a near-date/a rare coin.
Where is the mint mark on a 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar?
The mint mark on a 1979 Susan B Anthony Dollar is placed on its obverse side right above Anthony’s shoulder.
Which Susan B Anthony is rare?
The 1981 Susan B Anthony dollars are the rarest of the breed since they were never circulated and produced only for collectors.
Is a 1979 one-dollar silver coin rare?
The 1979 Susan B. Anthony one-dollar coin was 91.67% copper and 8.33% nickel, with zero silver content because no such coins exist; such a trait makes a 1979 one-dollar coin unusual. There aren’t many of them in circulation as well.
How much is a 1979 wide-rim dollar coin worth?
Based on its underlying condition, a 1979 P wide-rim coin is valued between $6 and $10. If you discover a coin that has never been used, it’s worth $67.
Conclusion
With this, we come to the end of our coin guide. This blog discusses how Susie B. Anthony dollar is an anomaly in and of itself and has marked a strong position in the archives of numismatics. Make sure you stay well-informed and have an expert understanding about these valuable currencies before you get your hands on one.
