Some coins hold an extremely high value because of their rarity and historical importance. One example is the Susan B. Anthony dollar. Designed by Frank Gasparro, this coin was minted by the US Mint for only four years, from 1979 to 1981 and then again in 1999. While the coin is available at certain coin dealers in the country, one must learn about its significance before thinking about getting it.
About Susan B. Anthony
Susan B. Anthony was among the most prominent figures in the country’s history during the Cold War. She was a social reformer and a female rights activist who fought for women’s right to vote. Her valuable contribution to social justice earned her a place in the hearts of every citizen.
The story behind the coin
In 1979, a new coin was proposed that would carry remarkable designs, such as the American eagle. But the congressmen demanded a depiction of a real woman instead, prompting Jimmy Carter, the then-president, to approve the Susan B. Anthony one-dollar coin.
The government believed the coin would circulate well within the country, but it was usually mistaken for the quarter dollar. Moreover, the vending machines needed to be revamped to accept these coins. Given these issues and a decline in demand, the production of the dollar coin ceased.
In 1999, the coin resurfaced as a replacement for the Sacagawea gold dollar. People disliked the Sacagawea dollar because it looked fake and had no actual gold despite being marketed as a “golden dollar.” Once sufficient Susan B. Anthony coins entered as replacement, their production stopped. With just four years of minting, the Susan B. Anthony dollar coins became rare.
Design of the coin
The Susan B. Anthony dollar coin was designed by Frank Gasparro, the then Chief Engraver at the US Mint. It was the first time the coin featured a real woman with the mint mark and the designer’s initials. This coin was predominantly minted in three US Mint facilities: San Francisco, Philadelphia, and Denver.
San Francisco
These 1979 dollar coins, which bore the S mint mark, are relatively more valuable. The San Francisco-produced coins had a few versions and varieties. Based on the strike, errors, and condition, the 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar’s value for the San Francisco coins typically ranges between $28 and $4,850.
Philadelphia
These have a P mint mark and are more valuable than the Denver-minted coins. The price depends on the strike, errors, and condition but usually ranges between $20 and $10,000.
Denver
Bearing a D mint mark, these are the most popular Susan B. Anthony dollar coins. Given their high mintage and accessibility, the coins are less valuable. But one can expect to pay a high price if the piece is uncirculated and remains in pristine condition.
Errors and varieties
A 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar’s value can vary depending on its error or variety.
Regular strike
The most common variant comprises 75% copper and 25% nickel. It was produced in Denver, Philadelphia, and San Francisco. The Philadelphia-minted coin, which is of MS67+ grade, was auctioned for $6,995 in 2021. But a similar Denver-minted specimen was sold in 2017 for $1,528. In 2021, the San Francisco NGC-certified coin sold for $15,000.
Wide-rim variety
In its debut year, the coin design underwent a minor modification. The regular strike bearing a narrow rim was replaced with a wider rim. Because of scarcity, the wide-rim coins are more valuable.
Proof coins (type 1)
These coins were minted with a proof finish and produced in tiny numbers, making them valuable. Typically, their value can range from $5 to $175. One can expect to pay more for a better-condition coin.
Proof coins (type 2)
These were the coins with a proof finish from the San Francisco facility. They came in two variants. The first had a filled mint mark, whereas the second had a clearer mint mark. Grading companies valued these coins at around $47 for Type 1 and $175 for Type 2.
Type 1 with “blob” error
The S mark in the type 1 proof coins were pressed by hand initially, leading to a worn punch that caused the mark to appear like a blob rather than an S. These error coins are now valued at $100.
Factors that determine the coin’s value
Rarity is the top factor when estimating the value of the 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar. But there are other things to consider as well.
Condition
Coins in uncirculated, excellent condition with negligible signs of damage and wear are more desirable and command better values.
Date
While these coins are relatively modern, the year of issue impacts its rarity. Coins from 1981 and 1999 are scarcer and can bag a premium value.
Mint marks
These were produced in three different facilities, so they have mint marks like S, D, and P. The most valuable have S mint marks.
Mint errors
Errors increase the collectible’s value. So, look for anomalies in the design to assess if a particular coin stands out from the rest. A different-looking coin sells better.