Susan B. Anthony Dollar: Stories about a Susan B. Anthony dollar selling for as much as $880,000 highlight how dramatic the gap can be between ordinary coins and truly exceptional ones. While the vast majority of SBA dollars trade for only a small premium over face value, a tiny number of rare varieties and authenticated errors have reached astonishing prices because of their scarcity and collector demand. In the 2026 market, these modern dollar coins are undergoing a massive re-evaluation as collectors hunt for transitional errors and top-population specimens.
Susan B. Anthony Dollar Value Snapshot (2026 Estimates)
| Category | Typical Market Range | Identification Notes |
| Common Circulated | $1.00 – $3.00 | Very abundant; minimal collector demand. |
| Uncirculated (MS66+) | $25 – $650 | Depends heavily on strike and luster. |
| 1979-P Wide Rim | $50 – $2,500+ | Date is very close to the rim border. |
| Major Mint Errors | $5,000 – $100,000+ | Value rises with severity and uniqueness. |
| Experimental/Transitional | Up to $880,000 | Prototype planchets or mule strikes. |
Extraordinary prices come from a combination of factors that rarely occur together. These include extreme rarity, clear documentation, and verification by respected grading services. When a coin is confirmed as unique or one of only a few known examples, competition among collectors and institutions can push prices far beyond normal expectations. Auction houses amplify this effect by showcasing such coins as landmark pieces. In 2026, the $880,000 threshold is typically reserved for “mule” errors, where an SBA dollar was accidentally struck using dies from another denomination.
Coin Collecting Trends and Modern Rarities in 2026
Modern U.S. coins are gaining renewed attention, especially those once dismissed as ordinary. Collectors in 2026 are increasingly focused on error coins, die varieties, and top-population grades. Susan B. Anthony dollars benefit from this trend because their short production span (1979–1981 and 1999) makes rare anomalies easier to isolate and study. The transition between the 1981 and 1999 minting cycles has become a primary area of research for those looking to find overlooked experimental strikes.
How to Identify the Rare 1979-P “Wide Rim” Variety
The most common “valuable” coin a collector might actually find is the 1979-P Wide Rim, also known as the Near Date variety. To identify this, look at the distance between the year “1979” and the raised rim. On the common version, there is a wide gap. On the rare variety, the date is almost touching the rim. While common versions are worth only face value, a high-grade Wide Rim variety can fetch several thousand dollars in today’s competitive market.
Major Mint Errors: Off-Center and Mule Strikes
Not every flaw adds worth, but certain mistakes are highly collectible. These include strong off-center strikes, where the design is only partially on the coin, and “Mule” errors. A mule occurs when an SBA dollar obverse is paired with a different reverse, such as a Sacagawea dollar or a Washington quarter. While many reported errors are actually post-mint damage, a genuine, certified mint error can elevate a standard one-dollar coin into a six-figure asset. Documentation from a service like PCGS is mandatory for these sales.
The Importance of Professional Grading and Luster
Coins that sell for large sums are almost always certified by major grading services such as PCGS or NGC. Grading provides a numeric assessment of condition, while authentication confirms the coin is genuine and accurately attributed. For SBA dollars, “eye appeal” is everything. Because these coins were made of a copper-nickel clad material that scratches easily, finding a 1981-S or 1999-P in a “flawless” MS-68 or MS-69 grade is nearly impossible. These high-population-count rarities often spark bidding wars among registry set collectors.
Verification Steps for High-Value Discoveries
If you believe you have found a potential $880,000 rarity, use a 10x loupe to inspect the date, lettering, and devices for anomalies. Compare the coin against high-resolution reference images from reliable numismatic databases. Weigh and measure it precisely to rule out third-party alterations or “garage” fakes. Research auction archives for matching characteristics of experimental planchets. If strong indicators remain, submit the coin for professional grading—this is the only path to realizing top-tier market prices.
Final Verdict
Most Susan B. Anthony dollars remain inexpensive and widely available. However, a very small number of verified errors, rare transitional varieties, and uniquely preserved top-grade coins can command extraordinary sums. In 2026, the hunt for these treasures continues to fuel the hobby. Careful inspection, thorough research, and professional grading are the absolute keys to separating everyday pocket change from true numismatic legends worth a fortune.
Disclaimer
Coin values fluctuate based on market demand, collector interest, and overall economic conditions. Any price references provided are general estimates based on 2026 market trends and are not guarantees of sale price. Always rely on current auction results and professional numismatic opinions before making significant financial decisions. High valuations apply only to authenticated and certified rarities.
Would you like me to create a “Visual Identification Guide” for the 1979-S Type 1 vs. Type 2 Proof mint marks so you can check your proof sets for high-value varieties?
