Why the Rare Susan B. Anthony Dollar Matters
The Susan B. Anthony dollar remains a popular target for collectors because of known varieties, grading extremes, and occasional mint errors. While most circulate at face value, certain specimens command far higher prices on the market.
This article explains what makes a Susan B. Anthony dollar rare, where to look, and practical steps to inspect and verify a potential find.
Key Varieties and Features to Watch
Value depends on year, mintmark, strike type (business strike vs proof), and any minting errors. Familiarize yourself with basic identifiers before you search.
- Mintmarks: Look for P (Philadelphia), D (Denver), and S (San Francisco). Proofs typically come from San Francisco (S).
- Proof vs Business Strike: Proofs are specially struck with mirror fields and sharper details. They are graded and sold differently from circulation strikes.
- Errors and Varieties: Doubled dies, repunched mint marks (RPM), off-center strikes, and large planchet flaws can increase value significantly.
- High Grades: Coins graded MS65 and above (business strikes) or PR65+ (proofs) are much more valuable than typical circulated coins.
How to Identify a Rare Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Start with visual inspection, then use simple tools. A systematic approach reduces mistakes and false hopes.
Tools You Need
- 10x jeweler’s loupe or magnifier
- Soft gloves and clean workspace
- Reference books or trusted online guides (PCGS, NGC)
- Scale and calipers for size tests (optional)
Step-by-Step Check
- Inspect the rim and fields for doubling or unusual marks.
- Note the mintmark location and any signs of repunching.
- Compare the strike and finish to reference photos for proof-like mirrors or cameo contrast.
- Search for off-center strikes, clipped planchets, or die breaks that change the design.
Where to Hunt: Practical Places to Search
Those looking for a rare Susan B. Anthony dollar should focus on places where unsearched or mixed coins accumulate. Persistence matters more than luck.
- Bank rolls and teller drawers — request unopened rolls or ask for dollar coin rolls at smaller branches.
- ATMs and vending machine change — some machines still dispense dollar coins.
- Coin star exchange receipts — sometimes machines flag collectibles; check returned coins.
- Garage sales, thrift stores, and estate sales — old jars of change can contain unsearched coins.
What to Do If You Find a Potentially Valuable Coin
If a coin appears to match a rare variety or error, follow careful steps to preserve value and confirm authenticity.
- Handle by the edges with gloves to avoid oils and scratches.
- Photograph the coin under good lighting from both sides.
- Compare with images from grading services and variety guides.
- Consider professional grading if the coin looks like a genuine high-grade or major error.
The Susan B. Anthony dollar, first issued in 1979, was the first U.S. circulating coin to feature a real woman’s portrait. It was a smaller dollar intended to replace the Eisenhower dollar.
Case Study: A Practical Example
A collector spent several afternoons asking local banks for dollar coin rolls. After opening ten rolls, they found a business-strike coin with an obvious repunched mintmark and unusually strong detail.
After consulting reference photos and sending the coin to a grading service, the piece was authenticated as a recognized variety and sold at auction for a five-figure sum. The collector credited methodical searching and careful handling for the successful find.
Tips to Maximize Your Chances
Consistent, targeted searching is more effective than random checking. Use these practical habits to improve results.
- Build relationships with local tellers and request unsearched rolls periodically.
- Track auction results for Susan B. Anthony varieties to learn prices and rare markers.
- Join coin clubs and online forums to exchange photos and opinions before paying for grading.
- Document every potential find with clear photos and notes about where it was located.
When to Seek Professional Help
Send a coin to a reputable third-party grading service if it appears to be a major error or an uncirculated specimen with potential high value. Professional grading can dramatically affect sale price and buyer confidence.
Also consult experienced dealers for initial opinions; many offer free or low-cost evaluations at shows or clubs.
Final Checklist Before You Spend Time Searching
- Know the common Susan B. Anthony dates and mintmarks.
- Have a loupe and reference images ready.
- Search consistently and keep careful records.
- Be prepared to grade and sell through auction or specialist dealers for top prices.
With steady effort and the right knowledge, finding a rare Susan B. Anthony dollar in circulation is possible. Focus on learned indicators, protect any finds, and use trusted grading and sales channels to realize value.
