Most people overlook the Susan B. Anthony Dollar because it looks so much like a quarter, but one rare 1981 version has shocked collectors by selling for an incredible $888,000. Even more surprising? Experts believe that a few of these valuable coins may still be hidden in circulation today. Before you dismiss that old dollar coin in your change jar, you might want to take a closer look.
The History Behind the 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
The U.S. Mint introduced the Susan B. Anthony Dollar in 1979 to honor one of America’s greatest women’s rights leaders. It became the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman instead of a symbolic figure. However, the public didn’t embrace it — mostly because it too closely resembled the quarter.
By 1981, public demand had dropped so low that most coins produced that year were minted only for collectors, not for general circulation. That makes any 1981 circulation strikes extremely rare today.
Why One 1981 Dollar Sold for $888,000
The record-breaking coin stood out because of a unique combination of rarity, condition, and minting errors. Key features included:
- Proof-like surfaces on a coin meant for regular circulation
- Off-center strike with unusually sharp details
- Exceptional condition, graded MS-68 or higher by PCGS
- Early die state, giving it crisp lines and flawless edges
Coins of this quality almost never appear in everyday change, which is why this particular piece went for such a massive price.
But collectors believe more may still exist — hiding in wallets, bank rolls, coin jars, or old family collections.
How to Identify a Rare 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Here’s what to check if you think you found something valuable:
Key Features to Look For
- Year: Must show 1981 under Susan B. Anthony’s portrait
- Mint Mark:
- S (San Francisco) is the most valuable
- A faint P (Philadelphia) can also be rare
- Finish: Mirror-like shine or proof-style surfaces
- Strike Quality: Sharp edges, detailed hair strands, crisp eagle image
- Condition: No scratches, dullness, or wear marks
Even if your coin doesn’t match the $888,000 version, it may still be worth more than you think.
Other Valuable Susan B. Anthony Dollars
Here are additional SBA dollars worth checking for:
| Year | Mint Mark | Type | Approx. Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1979-P | Wide Rim (Near Date) | Variety | Up to $6,000 |
| 1980-S | Proof Coin | Collectible | $100–$500 |
| 1981-S | Type 2 Proof | Rare | $500–$1,000 |
| 1999-P | Narrow Rim | Transitional Issue | $100+ |
These coins are often hiding in old collections and overlooked change.
Why You Should Check Your Loose Change
Many Americans mistake the Susan B. Anthony Dollar for a quarter, so it frequently goes unnoticed. That means a rare and valuable coin could easily be sitting:
- In your wallet
- Inside a coin jar
- In rolls from the bank
- In inherited collections
- Inside old drawers or storage boxes
A few minutes of checking could turn into a life-changing discovery.
What to Do If You Think You Found a Valuable Coin
Before you celebrate, follow these steps:
- Do NOT clean or polish it — this destroys value
- Use a magnifying glass to check details
- Compare it with trusted photos online
- Have it graded by PCGS or NGC
- Visit a certified coin dealer for appraisal
A professional evaluation will confirm whether your coin is truly a rare treasure.
FAQ: Rare 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Worth $888,000
Q1. How do I know if my Susan B. Anthony dollar is valuable?
Check the date (1981), look for proof-like shine, and inspect mint marks like “S” or “P.”
Q2. Are all 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollars rare?
No. Most were made for collectors, but circulation strikes and high-grade errors are extremely rare.
Q3. Can I still find these coins in circulation?
Yes — though rare, they sometimes appear in change or bank rolls, often mistaken for quarters.
Q4. Where can I sell a rare Susan B. Anthony dollar?
Coin dealers, auction houses, and grading services like PCGS or NGC are your best options.
Q5. Should I clean my coin before selling it?
Never. Cleaning lowers the value and can ruin the coin.
Final Thoughts
The rare 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar is a perfect example of hidden value in everyday life. What seems like a simple dollar coin could be worth thousands — or even $888,000. Whether you’re sorting through old change or checking a forgotten coin jar, it’s worth looking closely. Your next big discovery could be sitting right in your pocket.