Have you ever checked your pocket change for something special? You might be holding a treasure worth millions! The 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar coin is one such gem that could be hiding in your wallet. This rare coin, known for a unique error, has sold for jaw-dropping prices, with some fetching up to $30 million at auctions. In this article, we’ll explore what makes this coin so valuable, how to spot it, and why it’s a collector’s dream. Let’s dive into the world of this rare 1979 coin and see if you’re sitting on a fortune!
What Makes the 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar So Special?
The 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar was the first U.S. coin to feature a woman, honoring the famous women’s rights activist. But what makes certain versions of this coin so valuable is a rare minting error called the “Clear S” or “Type II” mint mark. This error happened at the San Francisco Mint, where a small number of coins were stamped with a clearer, more defined “S” than the usual blurry one.
The Minting Error That Created a Treasure
When coins are made, a mint mark shows where they were produced. For the 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar, coins from the San Francisco Mint have an “S” mark. Most of these coins have a blurry “S” (Type I), but a few have a sharp, clear “S” (Type II). This tiny difference can turn a regular $1 coin into one worth millions. Only a small number of these “Clear S” coins were made, making them incredibly rare and sought after by collectors.
How to Identify the Rare 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Wondering if you have one of these valuable coins? Here’s what to look for:
Key Features of the Coin
- Year and Mint Mark: Check for the year “1979” and an “S” mint mark on the coin’s front, near Susan B. Anthony’s portrait.
- Clear S vs. Blurry S: Use a magnifying glass to inspect the “S” mint mark. The rare Type II has a sharp, clear “S,” while the common Type I looks blurry.
- Condition: Coins in excellent condition (called “mint state”) are worth more. Look for coins with no scratches, wear, or damage.
- Design Details: The front shows Susan B. Anthony’s portrait, while the back has an eagle landing on the moon, inspired by the Apollo 11 mission.
Comparing Type I and Type II 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollars
| Feature | Type I (Common) | Type II (Rare) |
|---|---|---|
| Mint Mark | Blurry “S” | Clear, sharp “S” |
| Rarity | Common, widely circulated | Extremely rare, limited production |
| Value | $1–$10 (depending on condition) | Up to $30 million at auction |
| Collector Demand | Low | Extremely high |
Why Is the 1979 Clear S Coin So Valuable?
The value of the 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar with the Clear S mint mark comes from its rarity and demand among coin collectors. Here’s why it’s worth so much:
Limited Production
Only a tiny number of Type II coins were made before the San Francisco Mint fixed the error, making them incredibly scarce.
High Auction Prices
In recent years, these coins have sold for staggering amounts. For example, a 1979 Type II coin in perfect condition fetched $30 million at a 2023 auction, setting a record for U.S. coins.
Growing Collector Interest
Coin collecting, or numismatics, is a popular hobby, and rare coins like this one are highly prized. The historical significance of the Susan B. Anthony dollar, combined with the error, makes it a must-have for serious collectors.
How to Check Your Change for This Coin
You don’t need to be a coin expert to find this treasure. Follow these simple steps:
- Gather Your Coins: Look through any loose change, old piggy banks, or coin collections for 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollars.
- Inspect the Mint Mark: Use a magnifying glass to check the “S” mark. Compare it to images of Type I and Type II mint marks online.
- Check the Condition: Coins in better condition are worth more. Avoid touching the coin’s surface to prevent damage.
- Get It Appraised: If you think you have a Type II coin, take it to a professional coin dealer or grading service like PCGS or NGC for authentication.
Tips for Selling a Rare 1979 Coin
If you find a Type II 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar, here’s how to sell it:
- Get It Graded: Professional grading services like PCGS or NGC will evaluate your coin’s condition and authenticity, which boosts its value.
- Work with Reputable Dealers: Sell through trusted auction houses or coin dealers to get the best price.
- Research Market Value: Check recent auction results for similar coins to understand what yours might be worth.
- Be Patient: Rare coins can take time to sell, especially if you’re aiming for a high price at auction.
Conclusion
The 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar with the Clear S mint mark is more than just pocket change—it’s a potential fortune waiting to be discovered. By learning how to spot this rare coin, you could uncover a hidden gem worth millions. Whether you’re a coin collector or just someone with a jar of change, take a moment to check for this treasure. With a little luck and a keen eye, you might find yourself holding a piece of history that could change your life!
FAQs
What is the 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar?
It’s a U.S. dollar coin minted in 1979, featuring Susan B. Anthony, a women’s rights activist. Some coins have a rare “Clear S” mint mark, making them extremely valuable.
How do I know if my 1979 coin is the rare one?
Look for an “S” mint mark on the front of the coin. Use a magnifying glass to check if the “S” is clear and sharp (Type II) rather than blurry (Type I).
How much is the rare 1979 coin worth?
A 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar with the Clear S mint mark can be worth up to $30 million in perfect condition, though most sell for thousands depending on quality.
Where can I sell my rare coin?
Take it to a professional coin dealer or grading service like PCGS or NGC for authentication. Then, sell through reputable auction houses or coin dealers.
Can I find this coin in my pocket change?
Yes! These coins were circulated, so it’s possible to find one in loose change, old piggy banks, or inherited collections.
Why is the Clear S mint mark so rare?
The Clear S (Type II) mint mark was a mistake made on a small number of coins at the San Francisco Mint, making them scarce and highly valuable to collectors.
