Imagine rummaging through a jar of loose change and discovering a 1999-P Susan B. Anthony dollar that could be worth thousands. This coin is more than pocket change—it’s a rare collector’s gem honoring a trailblazing woman in U.S. history. In this guide, we’ll explore its story, market value, and tips for spotting these coins before they disappear into collections.
What Is the 1999-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar?
- Struck at the Philadelphia Mint
- Obverse: features Susan B. Anthony with “LIBERTY” above her
- Reverse: eagle landing on the moon, honoring Apollo 11
- Size: 26.5 mm, smaller than a half dollar
- Part of a short-lived series revived in 1999 for collectors
A Brief History of the Susan B. Anthony Dollar
- First minted in 1979, the U.S.’s first circulating coin honoring a real woman
- Designed to replace paper dollars, but public confusion over its size led to low circulation
- Production paused in 1981; revived in 1999 for uncirculated sets, just before the Sacagawea dollar
- 1999-P mintage: 29,592,000 coins, with some rare mint errors
- Marked an 18-year gap, the longest for any U.S. coin series
Why the 1999-P Dollar Stands Out Today
Even with large mintage numbers, the 1999-P remains valuable due to:
- Mint errors like off-metal strikes and planchet mules
- Pristine uncirculated coins with top grading
- Its historical significance and feminist legacy
Auction Highlights
| Variety | Grade | Auction Price | Year Sold |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mule on Sacagawea Planchet | MS64 | $16,100 | 2006 |
| Standard MS | MS68 | $10,925 | Recent |
| Proof Deep Cameo | PR70 | $130 | 2025 |
Mintage Comparison
| Year/Mint | Mintage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1979-P | 3,677,175 | First year, high demand |
| 1999-P | 29,592,000 | Collector revival, error-prone |
| 1999-D | 11,776,000 | Denver Mint variant |
Tips for Spotting High-Value Susan B. Anthony Dollars
- Look for golden or off-metal hues indicating a mule error
- Check edges for mis-strikes or doubled letters
- Target coins graded MS65+ for top value
- Store in airtight albums to prevent oxidation
- Consult professional graders when suspecting rare varieties
FAQs About the 1999-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Q: Is the 1999-P Susan B. Anthony dollar rare?
A: Circulated coins are common, but uncirculated and error coins are highly sought after.
Q: How much is a 1999-P dollar worth?
A: Worn coins: $1–$3; uncirculated: $10–$20; rare mint errors: up to $16,000+.
Q: Where can I sell one?
A: Trusted coin dealers, Heritage Auctions, or eBay (preferably slabbed for verification).
Q: Are there fake 1999-P dollars?
A: Yes, avoid poorly struck coins and buy certified examples.
Q: Why is it called the “Liberty” dollar?
A: The obverse reads “LIBERTY,” honoring Susan B. Anthony while following U.S. coin tradition.
Final Thoughts
The 1999-P Susan B. Anthony dollar is more than a coin—it’s a piece of American history with real collector value. From mint errors to high-grade finds, it remains a coveted item for rare coin enthusiasts. Start checking your loose change and old coin jars today—your next treasure might already be in your hands. Collect wisely, explore auction records, and enjoy the thrill of discovering one of America’s most interesting coins.
