Which Susan B. Anthony Dollars Are Rare?

Understanding Susan B. Anthony Dollars

The Susan B. Anthony dollar, a distinctive coin in U.S. coinage history, was introduced to replace the larger Eisenhower dollar, aiming to be more convenient. Despite its brief initial production, certain variations are sought-after by collectors. Understanding their characteristics helps identify valuable pieces. This article explores attributes distinguishing common Susan B. Anthony dollars from those with higher market value.

The Susan B. Anthony dollar was minted for circulation from 1979 to 1981 and again in 1999. Designed by Frank Gasparro, the coin features women’s rights advocate Susan B. Anthony on its obverse. This marked the first time a real woman, rather than an allegorical figure, appeared on a circulating U.S. coin. The reverse displays an eagle in flight above the moon, a design adapted from the Apollo 11 mission insignia.

Measuring 26.5 millimeters in diameter and weighing 8.1 grams, the coin has a copper core clad with 75% copper and 25% nickel. Its size and metallic content led to frequent confusion with the quarter dollar, contributing to its initial unpopularity. Susan B. Anthony dollars were produced at three U.S. Mint facilities: Philadelphia (P), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S). The mint mark, indicating origin, is typically on the obverse, above Susan B. Anthony’s right shoulder.

Key Identifiers of Rarity

Identifying a rare Susan B. Anthony dollar depends on recognizing specific characteristics. Primary indicators of rarity include mint marks, mintage year, and specific die varieties or errors. These elements influence a coin’s scarcity and market value. Collectors examine these details closely to determine a coin’s potential significance.

Mint marks indicate the production facility and play a role in rarity. For Susan B. Anthony dollars, coins bear a “P” for Philadelphia, “D” for Denver, or “S” for San Francisco. Lower mintage figures (total coins produced at a specific mint in a given year) correlate with rarity and are typically more valuable. For example, some coins minted in 1981 were primarily for collectors, resulting in lower circulation numbers compared to earlier years.

Die varieties and errors are another avenue for rarity. Die varieties are subtle design differences from changes or wear in the dies. These are not mistakes but rather distinct iterations of the coin’s design. Errors are mistakes during minting, such as off-center strikes or double dies, creating unique and collectible pieces. Collectors often seek out these anomalies because of their distinctiveness and limited availability.

Specific Rare Varieties to Look For

Certain Susan B. Anthony dollar varieties are sought after due to their distinct characteristics and limited numbers. The most prominent and widely recognized rare variety is the 1979-P “Wide Rim” or “Near Date” variety. This coin, produced only at the Philadelphia Mint, exhibits a noticeable difference in spacing between the date and the obverse rim. Its rarity stems from a unique die used during its production, which resulted in this distinctive wide rim.

To identify a 1979-P “Wide Rim” dollar, examine the obverse. Focus on the date “1979” and observe its proximity to the outer rim. On the “Wide Rim” variety, the date appears significantly closer to the rim, almost touching it, compared to the common “Narrow Rim” version. The space between the “9” in the date and the rim is much narrower, about the width of the numeral “1” in the date. This visual distinction is key to authenticating this valuable variety.

Other rare varieties include certain San Francisco Mint proof issues, identified by specific “S” mint mark characteristics. The 1979-S Type II Proof coin is distinguished by a clearly defined “S” mint mark, contrasting with the more common “blobby” appearance of the Type I. Similarly, the 1981-S Type II Proof variety features a clearer “S” mint mark with more pronounced, bulbous serifs, differing from the standard 1979-style mint mark found on most 1981-S proofs. These subtle differences in the mint mark’s appearance are critical for identification and contribute significantly to their numismatic value.

Factors Influencing Value Beyond Rarity

While rarity drives market value, physical condition plays an equally significant role. Even a rare Susan B. Anthony dollar will command a lower price if it exhibits wear, scratches, or damage. Overall appearance and preservation directly impact its appeal and monetary worth. Collectors prioritize coins that maintain their original luster and detail.

Coin grading assesses a coin’s condition, using terms like “Uncirculated” (MS), “About Uncirculated” (AU), and “Very Fine” (VF). An “Uncirculated” coin shows no wear from circulation and retains its original mint luster. An “About Uncirculated” coin may show slight traces of wear on the highest points of its design, while a “Very Fine” coin will exhibit moderate, even wear on its surface.

Original luster, sharp design details, and absence of distracting marks or corrosion are considered during grading. For instance, an “Uncirculated” 1979-P “Wide Rim” dollar will be far more valuable than the same rare variety in “Very Fine” condition. Professional coin grading services provide impartial evaluations, encapsulating coins in protective holders with their assigned grade.