What Is the Value of a 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar?

The Susan B. Anthony dollar, introduced in 1979, aimed to replace the paper dollar bill. Despite its innovative design, the coin was often confused with the quarter due to its similar size and color, leading to limited production years. While many 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollars remain common, specific features or conditions can make them valuable to collectors.

Basic Characteristics of the 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar

The 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar features a distinct design by Frank Gasparro. Its obverse displays a portrait of Susan B. Anthony, a prominent women’s rights pioneer, while the reverse showcases an eagle landing on the moon, adapted from the Apollo 11 mission insignia. This coin measures 26.5 millimeters in diameter and weighs 8.1 grams, with a reeded edge. Its composition consists of a copper-nickel clad, meaning it has outer layers of 75% copper and 25% nickel bonded to a pure copper core.

Mint marks, indicating where a coin was produced, are located on the obverse, just above Susan B. Anthony’s right shoulder. A “P” signifies production at the Philadelphia Mint, a “D” for the Denver Mint, and an “S” for the San Francisco Mint. While most 1979 issues from these mints are common, specific variations exist that can influence their collectible standing.

The Role of Condition in Coin Value

The condition of a coin, known as its grade in numismatics, is a primary determinant of its market value. Coin grading assesses factors such as wear, preservation, luster, and strike quality. This evaluation uses the Sheldon Scale, a 70-point system ranging from 1 (Poor) to 70 (Perfect Mint State), established to standardize how coins are assessed. Higher numbers on this scale denote better preservation and typically correspond to increased value.

Coins are broadly categorized as circulated or uncirculated, reflecting whether they have seen use in commerce. Circulated coins show varying degrees of wear from handling, while uncirculated coins exhibit no signs of such use. Within these categories, specific terms like “Good” (G), “Fine” (F), “Very Fine” (VF), “Extremely Fine” (EF), “About Uncirculated” (AU), and “Mint State” (MS) or “Proof” (PF) denote progressive levels of preservation. An uncirculated coin will almost always command a higher price than a circulated one of the same type.

Preserving a coin’s condition is important for maintaining its potential value. Handling coins by their edges, rather than touching their surfaces, helps prevent the transfer of oils and dirt that can cause damage. Avoiding any attempts to clean a coin is also important, as improper cleaning can permanently degrade its surface and significantly reduce its numismatic appeal and value.

Identifying Key Varieties and Errors for Enhanced Value

Some 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollars possess specific varieties or errors that enhance their value to collectors. A prominent example is the 1979-P “Wide Rim” variety, sometimes referred to as the “Near Date.” This variety is distinct from the more common “Narrow Rim” or “Far Date” coins, where the date appears further from the coin’s edge. To identify a “Wide Rim” coin, observe the distance between the “1” in the “1979” date and the coin’s rim; on the “Wide Rim” variety, this number appears noticeably closer to the edge, almost touching it. This variety was only minted in Philadelphia.

Another notable variation pertains to the 1979-S Proof Susan B. Anthony dollars, which come in two types based on their mint mark. The “Type 1” is characterized by a “Filled S” or “Blob S” mint mark, where the “S” appears less defined due to a worn punch used in the minting process. Conversely, the “Type 2” features a “Clear S” mint mark, which is sharply defined and more distinct. The “Clear S” variety is generally more sought after by collectors, commanding a higher value due to its clearer appearance.

Estimating and Realizing Your Coin’s Value

Estimating the fair market value of a 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar involves careful research and comparison. Reputable online price guides, often provided by professional grading services, offer current value ranges based on a coin’s specific variety and condition. Reviewing completed auction results for similar coins can also provide insight into what buyers are currently willing to pay. Market conditions, including demand and supply for specific collectibles, play a direct role in determining value.

For potentially valuable coins, considering professional grading services like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) can be a beneficial step. These services authenticate the coin, assign a precise numerical grade, and encapsulate it in a tamper-evident holder. While professional grading involves fees, it can increase buyer confidence and enhance marketability for higher-value pieces.

When it comes to selling your coin, several avenues are available. Local coin dealers offer a convenient option for direct sales, providing immediate payment. Online auction platforms or specialized coin marketplaces allow access to a broader audience of collectors, potentially yielding higher prices, but often require the seller to manage photography, listings, and shipping. For exceptionally rare or high-value coins, consigning to a major auction house may be an option.