Many people have Susan B. Anthony dollars sitting around, but did you know a special 1981 version could be worth $880,000? This coin, made to honor the women’s rights leader, didn’t get much use when it came out. Today, rare ones are hot items for collectors. Some might still be out there in change or old collections. This piece will help you learn how to find that pricey coin and what makes it so special.
The Story Behind the Coin
The Susan B. Anthony dollar came out in 1979 to replace bigger dollars, but folks often mixed it up with quarters. They made them until 1981, then stopped for a bit before one last run in 1999. The 1981 coins are key because not many were put into use. Most stayed in mint sets or proof versions for collectors. The high value comes from rare features on some of these coins, like special mint marks that show where and how they were made.
Spotting the Valuable Mark
The big thing to look for on a $880,000 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar is the mint mark. It’s a tiny “S” on the front side, right by the date. Regular coins have a blurry “S,” called Type I. But the rare ones have a sharp, clear “S,” known as Type II. This happened because the mint changed the punch midway through production. Proof coins, which are super shiny, with this clear “S” are the most wanted. Use a magnifier to check it closely.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Year | 1981 |
| Mint Mark | S (Clear, Type II) |
| Type | Proof (mirror finish) |
| Side | Obverse, next to date |
Places It Could Be Hiding
You might think these rare coins are locked away, but some 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollars are still floating around. Since people didn’t like using them, lots ended up in drawers or jars. Check your spare change, old wallets, or buy rolls from the bank. Coin shows and online sales sometimes have them without folks knowing the true worth. Even vending machines or casino payouts could spit one out. The key is to look at every dollar coin you get.
Steps to Check and Sell It
Found one that matches? Don’t clean or scratch it, that drops the value fast. Get it graded by pros like PCGS or NGC to prove it’s real and in good shape. They look at the mint mark, shine, and any marks. If it’s a top Type II proof, you could get big bucks at auction or from dealers. Past sales show these can go for hundreds of thousands, based on how perfect they are. Keep it safe in a holder until then.
Join the Coin Hunt Adventure
Searching for the $880,000 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar adds fun to handling money. With the clear “S” mark and proof finish, this coin stands out to those who know. Dig through your coins today, you never know what treasure hides in plain sight. It could turn a simple dollar into a huge payday.
