What Is a 1979 Susan B. Anthony Silver Dollar Worth?

The 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar coin is distinctive due to its appearance and short production period. Many mistakenly believe this coin, the first U.S. circulating coin to feature a real woman, is silver. However, it is made of a copper-nickel clad composition with a pure copper core. These coins were minted for circulation from 1979 to 1981 and again in 1999, intended to replace the paper dollar and reduce printing costs. Its design, created by Frank Gasparro, features Susan B. Anthony on the obverse and an eagle landing on the moon on the reverse.

Factors Influencing Value

The value of a 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar is influenced by several attributes beyond its face value. A primary factor is the coin’s mint mark, which indicates where it was produced. For 1979, these coins were struck at the Philadelphia (P), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S) mints, with the mint mark typically found above Susan B. Anthony’s shoulder on the obverse. Philadelphia-minted coins do not always display a “P” mark, but “D” or “S” marks identify their origin. The specific mint mark can impact rarity, as certain mintages were lower or had unique characteristics.

The coin’s condition, or grade, plays a role in its valuation. Coins that have seen extensive circulation and show significant wear are generally worth only their face value. In contrast, coins in higher grades, especially uncirculated examples, can command a higher value.

Minting errors or varieties can increase a coin’s appeal and value to collectors. For the 1979-P Susan B. Anthony dollar, a notable variety is the “Wide Rim” or “Near Date” version, where the date is positioned closer to the rim due to a die alteration. This “Wide Rim” variety is scarcer and more valuable than the common “Narrow Rim” type. Another variety for 1979-S proof coins is Type 1 (“Blob” mint mark) and Type 2 (“Clear S” mint mark), with Type 2 being rarer.

Assessing Coin Condition

Evaluating a coin’s condition helps determine its worth. Coins are broadly categorized as either “circulated” or “uncirculated,” with uncirculated coins generally holding higher value due to their lack of wear from everyday use. Common terms in coin grading include “About Uncirculated” (AU), which indicates a coin with very slight wear on its highest points, and “Brilliant Uncirculated” (BU) or “Mint State” (MS), signifying a coin with no wear. A coin graded MS-70 is considered flawless, representing the highest possible grade.

To assess a 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar, examine areas for wear or damage. Look closely at the high points of Susan B. Anthony’s hair and the eagle’s feathers on the reverse, as these areas typically show wear first. The flat areas, known as the fields, should be free from excessive scratches or nicks, and the rim should be intact without dents or flattening. A magnifying glass can assist in identifying subtle details and imperfections.

Proper handling and care are important to preserve a coin’s condition and prevent further damage. Always hold coins by their edges to avoid transferring oils from your skin to the coin’s surface, which can cause discoloration over time. Cleaning coins is generally not recommended, as it can inadvertently damage the surface and reduce their numismatic value.

Locating Current Values

Once you understand your 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar’s mint mark, variety, and approximate condition, you can research its current market value. Several reputable online price guides provide up-to-date valuations based on these factors. Websites like those from the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC), and NumisMedia offer free access to extensive pricing data. These resources typically present value ranges that vary depending on the coin’s specific grade, from circulated examples to high-grade uncirculated specimens.

In addition to online resources, printed price guides, such as “The Official Red Book: A Guide Book of United States Coins,” remain popular tools for collectors. These guides are updated periodically and offer information, including historical context and mintage figures. Consulting recent auction results from reputable platforms can also provide valuable insights into real-world market demand and prices achieved for similar coins.

Published values are often estimates and can fluctuate based on market dynamics, collector demand, and the specific dealer or auction house. Values for common circulated 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollars typically remain near their face value. However, coins with desirable mint marks, rare varieties like the 1979-P Wide Rim, or exceptional uncirculated condition can command higher prices.

Selling and Professional Appraisal

For a 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar that appears to be a rare variety or in exceptionally high-grade condition, seeking a professional appraisal can be beneficial. Professional appraisers or certified coin dealers can authenticate your coin, accurately determine its grade, and provide an informed valuation. This service is especially recommended for coins that might be worth hundreds or thousands of dollars, or for insurance purposes.

You can locate reputable coin professionals through national numismatic associations, local coin clubs, or by searching for well-reviewed coin dealers in your area. These experts possess specialized knowledge and often adhere to industry standards, ensuring a fair and accurate assessment. When considering selling your coin, various options are available, each with different advantages.

Selling directly to a local coin shop or dealer can offer immediate payment and convenience. However, dealers typically purchase coins at a wholesale price, which is below the retail market value, to allow for their profit margin. For potentially higher returns, especially for rare or high-value coins, you might consider selling through online auction platforms or consigning to a specialized auction house. These avenues can expose your coin to a wider audience of collectors, potentially leading to more competitive bidding.