The 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar is one of the most recognizable small-size U.S. dollar coins ever produced. It was introduced as a completely new dollar denomination featuring an American woman on the obverse, and millions of examples were struck during its first year.
Because of its age, historical importance, distinctive design and several collectible varieties, the 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar continues to attract attention from coin collectors. However, there is an important difference between an ordinary 1979 dollar and a genuinely scarce or high-value example.
Most 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollars are not worth hundreds or thousands of dollars. Many circulated pieces trade close to face value. The coins that can command stronger prices are usually scarce varieties, unusually high-grade specimens, proofs with the desirable Type 2 mintmark, or coins showing genuine mint errors.
That distinction is extremely important if you have one of these dollars and are considering selling it through an auction or collector marketplace.
What Is the 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar?
The Susan B. Anthony Dollar was designed by Frank Gasparro and was introduced in 1979.
The obverse features a portrait of Susan B. Anthony, the famous American women’s suffrage activist. The reverse shows an adaptation of the Apollo 11 insignia, with an eagle landing on the Moon surrounded by the Earth and stars.
The coin has a diameter of approximately 26.5 millimeters and weighs about 8.1 grams. It is a copper-nickel clad coin with a pure copper center and a reeded edge.
Unlike older large silver dollars, the Susan B. Anthony Dollar was deliberately made much smaller. Its size was intended to make the denomination more convenient and less expensive to produce.
Unfortunately, the public often confused the new dollar with the quarter because of their similar size. This contributed to the coin’s poor popularity in everyday commerce.
Nevertheless, the 1979 issue became historically important because Susan B. Anthony was the first identifiable woman to appear on a regularly circulating U.S. dollar coin.
Why 1979 Is an Important Year
The year 1979 was the first year of production for the Susan B. Anthony Dollar.
Millions of coins were produced at Philadelphia, Denver and San Francisco. Philadelphia produced approximately 360 million circulation-strike dollars, Denver produced approximately 288 million, and San Francisco produced more than 109 million circulation strikes.
San Francisco also produced proof coins for collectors.
This large production means that simply finding a 1979 date does not make a coin rare.
The interesting part is that the 1979 production includes several varieties that collectors actively look for.
Among the most important are:
- 1979-P Narrow Rim or Far Date
- 1979-P Wide Rim or Near Date
- 1979-S Type 1 Proof
- 1979-S Type 2 Proof
- High-grade examples
- Genuine mint-error coins
These differences can dramatically change collector interest.
How to Identify a 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
The first step is to confirm the date.
Look at the obverse, where Susan B. Anthony’s portrait appears. The date 1979 is located near the lower portion of the design.
Next, examine the mint mark.
A 1979-P has a P mint mark and was produced at Philadelphia.
A 1979-D has a D mint mark and was produced at Denver.
A 1979-S can represent either a circulation strike or a proof depending on the coin and its characteristics.
A coin without a mint mark is not automatically rare. On this particular series, identifying the correct variety is much more important than simply seeing or not seeing a mint mark.
The 1979-P Wide Rim or Near Date Variety
One of the most important varieties to look for is the 1979-P Wide Rim Susan B. Anthony Dollar.
It is also commonly called the Near Date variety.
This variety is interesting because the date appears noticeably closer to the rim than on the more common Narrow Rim version.
On the common Narrow Rim or Far Date coin, there is a more obvious space between the date and the surrounding rim.
On the Wide Rim variety, the rim is broader and the date sits closer to it.
This difference can be subtle when viewed casually, so collectors should compare the coin carefully rather than making a decision from a quick glance.
The Wide Rim variety is considerably more desirable than an ordinary 1979-P dollar, particularly when the coin has strong uncirculated surfaces.
How to Check the Wide Rim Variety
Place the coin under good lighting.
Look specifically at the relationship between the date and the rim.
Pay attention to the first digits of the date, particularly the position of the 1 and 9.
A Wide Rim coin will have the date positioned much closer to the rim.
A Narrow Rim coin will show more separation.
Do not rely only on photographs found online because camera angles can make the distance appear different.
If the coin looks promising, compare it with a confirmed example or have it examined by an experienced numismatist.
Why Condition Matters So Much
Condition can make an enormous difference in the value of a 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar.
A heavily circulated coin may show:
- Scratches
- Contact marks
- Dull surfaces
- Loss of original luster
- Rim damage
- Small dents
- General wear
A coin that was preserved shortly after production may look dramatically different.
An uncirculated example can retain much of its original mint luster and sharp detail.
However, even among uncirculated coins, there can be a huge difference in value.
A coin graded MS60 is not equivalent to an MS67.
At very high grades, tiny marks can make the difference between an ordinary collectible and a conditionally scarce coin.
What Does MS Mean?
MS means Mint State.
It is generally used for coins that show no evidence of circulation wear.
The numerical grade normally ranges from MS60 upward.
As the grade increases, the coin generally becomes more difficult to find with the required combination of clean surfaces, attractive luster and strong strike.
For a common 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar, an average uncirculated coin may have limited additional value.
But a top-grade certified example can be much more interesting to collectors.
This is why an article or online listing claiming that “all 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollars are worth thousands” should be treated with caution.
1979-S Proof Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Another important area of the 1979 series is the San Francisco proof dollar.
Proof coins were specially manufactured for collectors rather than normal circulation.
Proof coins typically have carefully prepared surfaces and sharper visual contrast between the design and background.
The 1979-S proof dollar exists in two major mintmark varieties.
These are generally referred to as Type 1 and Type 2.
The difference is found in the appearance of the S mint mark.
1979-S Type 1 Proof
The Type 1 proof is commonly known as the Filled S variety.
The S mint mark appears less sharply defined and can have a more rounded or filled appearance.
This is the more common of the two major 1979-S proof varieties.
A normal Type 1 proof may be worth only a modest premium, especially if it has been handled, scratched or removed from its original packaging.
However, exceptional certified examples can still attract collectors.
1979-S Type 2 Proof
The Type 2 proof is usually identified by a clearer, sharper-looking S mint mark.
This variety is scarcer and is more desirable among Susan B. Anthony collectors.
The difference may seem small to someone unfamiliar with the series, but variety collectors pay close attention to these details.
A high-grade Type 2 proof can therefore be worth substantially more than a typical 1979-S Type 1 proof.
If you have a 1979-S proof and believe the S looks unusually clear and well defined, it is worth taking a closer look before selling the coin.
Proof Coin Versus Circulation Coin
It is important not to confuse a proof with an ordinary circulation strike.
A proof coin was produced using a special manufacturing process intended to create a collector-quality appearance.
A circulation coin was manufactured for use in commerce.
A 1979-S circulation dollar does not automatically become a proof simply because it has an S mint mark.
This is one reason why photographs alone can sometimes be misleading.
The surfaces, fields, details and overall appearance should all be considered.
Is Every 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Rare?
No.
This is one of the most important points for anyone researching this coin.
The 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar had a very large production.
Millions were distributed, and many examples survived.
Therefore, an ordinary circulated 1979-P, 1979-D or 1979-S dollar is generally not a rare coin.
What makes certain examples collectible is a combination of variety, condition, originality, error status and collector demand.
A normal coin should not be advertised as a $500 or $1,000 rarity without evidence supporting that valuation.
What Can Make a 1979 Dollar Valuable?
Several factors can increase the value of a 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar.
Scarce variety
The 1979-P Wide Rim or Near Date variety is one of the most important varieties to search for.
Proof variety
A 1979-S Type 2 proof can carry a stronger premium than the more common Type 1 proof.
Exceptional grade
A common coin can become much more interesting if it survives in an unusually high certified grade.
Genuine mint error
Coins struck incorrectly at the Mint can have significant collector appeal depending on the type and severity of the error.
Original surfaces
Coins that have not been cleaned or polished are generally preferred by serious collectors.
Eye appeal
A coin with attractive luster, strong details and clean surfaces can perform better than an unattractive example of the same basic type.
Possible Mint Errors
Some 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollars may show genuine mint errors.
Examples of errors that collectors may investigate include:
- Off-center strikes
- Clipped planchets
- Double strikes
- Broadstrikes
- Wrong-planchet strikes
- Die-related errors
- Major striking abnormalities
Not every unusual-looking coin is a mint error.
A scratch caused after the coin left the Mint is damage.
A dent caused by dropping the coin is damage.
A flattened rim caused by an impact may also be damage.
For a coin to receive a significant error premium, the unusual feature needs to be consistent with a recognized minting error.
The Difference Between Damage and an Error
This is especially important when preparing an auction listing.
Imagine that the edge of a 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar has a deep indentation.
That does not automatically mean the coin was struck incorrectly.
It could have been damaged after leaving the Mint.
Similarly, unusual discoloration does not automatically indicate a special variety.
Collectors generally want evidence that the unusual characteristic occurred during the manufacturing process.
If you are uncertain, describe the feature honestly rather than calling it a rare error without verification.
How Much Is a 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Worth?
There is no single price for every 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar.
An ordinary circulated example can be worth approximately its face value or a small premium.
A common uncirculated example may bring several dollars or more depending on condition.
A 1979-P Wide Rim can command a stronger premium, particularly in high grades.
A 1979-S Type 2 proof can also be more valuable than the standard Type 1 proof.
Top-grade certified coins and significant mint errors can reach much higher prices.
In exceptional cases, auction results can move into hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
But those prices should not be used to value every coin carrying the 1979 date.
The exact market value depends on the individual coin.
Why Online Prices Can Be Misleading
When researching a coin, you may see listings claiming extremely high prices.
There is an important difference between an asking price and a completed sale.
Someone can list an ordinary 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar online for $5,000.
That does not mean someone will actually pay $5,000.
For a more realistic valuation, look for documented completed sales involving coins with the same variety, grade and certification.
A genuine auction result is generally more useful than an unrealistic unsold listing.
What About a 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Worth $1,000?
A 1979 dollar can potentially enter a four-figure market in exceptional circumstances, but it should not be assumed that any 1979 coin is worth $1,000.
A coin reaching such a level would typically need something special.
Possible reasons could include:
- Extremely high certified grade
- Scarce Wide Rim variety
- Major authenticated mint error
- Exceptional proof quality
- Very strong collector demand
A normal circulated dollar is not comparable to one of these special examples.
If someone tells you that your coin is worth $1,000 simply because it says 1979, ask what specific variety, grade or error justifies that price.
What About a 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Worth $5,000?
The same principle applies to even higher claims.
A five-thousand-dollar valuation requires strong evidence.
The coin would need to be exceptional in some meaningful way.
It might be a top-condition example, an especially scarce variety or a significant certified mint error.
The majority of 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollars will never reach that level.
This distinction protects sellers from unrealistic expectations and helps buyers identify genuinely important coins.
How to Inspect Your Coin at Home
You do not need expensive equipment for the first inspection.
Start with a clean table and good natural or neutral lighting.
Handle the coin by its edges.
Look at the date.
Check the mint mark.
Examine the rim.
Inspect the surfaces for wear and scratches.
Look for original mint luster.
Then check whether the coin appears to be a proof.
If you believe you have the 1979-P Wide Rim variety, compare the date position carefully.
If it is a 1979-S proof, inspect the S mintmark.
Finally, check the edge for unusual striking characteristics.
A basic 5x or 10x magnifier can be helpful, but excessive magnification is not necessary for the first inspection.
Do Not Clean the Coin
One of the biggest mistakes a new collector can make is cleaning an old coin.
Do not polish it.
Do not use silver cleaner.
Do not use metal polish.
Do not scrub it with a cloth.
Do not attempt to make it “look new.”
Cleaning can leave hairlines, scratches or unnatural surfaces that reduce collector appeal.
A naturally preserved coin is generally more desirable than a damaged coin that has been aggressively polished.
If your 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar might be valuable, leave the surface alone.
When Should You Consider Professional Grading?
Professional grading can make sense when the coin appears to have significant potential.
For example, you may want to consider authentication and grading if you believe you have:
- A high-grade Wide Rim
- A high-grade Type 2 proof
- An important mint error
- An exceptionally clean uncirculated coin
- A potentially valuable variety
Grading costs money, so it does not make financial sense for every ordinary circulated dollar.
Before submitting a coin, estimate whether the possible increase in value justifies the expense.
Why Certification Can Help
A certified coin is authenticated, graded and placed in a protective holder.
For valuable coins, certification can make buyers more comfortable because they are not relying entirely on the seller’s personal grade.
A certified MS67, for example, carries a very different meaning from a seller simply writing “looks MS67” in an online description.
Certification does not guarantee a high selling price.
Market demand still matters.
But for rare varieties and high-grade examples, certification can make the selling process considerably easier.
How to Photograph a 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Good photographs are extremely important when preparing an auction listing.
Take clear photographs of:
- Full obverse
- Full reverse
- Date
- Mint mark
- Rim
- Any suspected variety
- Any suspected error
- Edge if necessary
Use enough light to show the actual surface.
Avoid heavy filters or artificial effects.
Do not digitally alter the appearance of the coin.
If you are selling a potentially valuable coin, buyers want to see the actual condition.
Sharp, honest photographs can increase buyer confidence.
Selling Through a Coin Auction
An auction can be an excellent option when the coin has a strong collector attribute.
The auction format allows multiple buyers to compete.
This can be especially useful for:
- Rare varieties
- Certified high-grade coins
- Significant mint errors
- Desirable proof varieties
- Historically important pieces
However, not every 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar needs to be auctioned.
For a normal circulated dollar, the costs involved in a formal auction may outweigh the potential return.
Selling to a Coin Dealer
A reputable coin dealer can provide a faster transaction.
The dealer will normally offer less than the expected retail price because the dealer needs room for expenses, risk and profit.
This does not necessarily mean the dealer is offering a bad price.
It simply reflects the difference between wholesale and retail markets.
For a rare coin, it can be worthwhile to obtain more than one opinion before accepting an offer.
Selling Online
Online marketplaces can expose a coin to a large audience.
However, online selling also requires careful descriptions and photographs.
If your coin is listed as a rare variety, explain exactly why.
Do not simply write “VERY RARE 1979 DOLLAR $5,000” without supporting information.
A better listing identifies the coin, explains the variety, gives its condition honestly and provides clear photographs.
How to Create a Strong Auction Listing
A professional listing should include the following information:
Coin name: 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Denomination: One Dollar
Date: 1979
Mint mark: P, D or S
Strike type: Circulation strike or proof
Variety: Narrow Rim, Wide Rim, Type 1 or Type 2 when applicable
Condition: Describe honestly or provide certification information
Weight: Approximately 8.1 grams for a normal example
Diameter: Approximately 26.5 millimeters
Edge: Reeded
Composition: Copper-nickel clad over a copper center
Additional features: Clearly explain any suspected error or variety
The seller should also explain whether the coin is raw or certified.
Example Selling Description
A clean auction description could say:
“Offered is a 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar for collectors of early small-size U.S. dollar coins. The coin is being presented with clear photographs of the obverse and reverse, including the date, mint mark and overall surfaces. Buyers should review the photographs carefully and make their own determination regarding condition, variety and collectible value. Any premium associated with the coin should be based on its actual characteristics rather than the date alone.”
This type of wording is much safer and more professional than promising a specific value.
If You Believe You Have a Valuable Coin
If you are located in the United States and believe your 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar may be a scarce variety, high-grade example or genuine mint error, you can explore professional evaluation and selling options before making a final decision.
Check the available contact or submission information associated with your selling platform.
You can submit clear photographs showing both sides of the coin, the date, mint mark and any unusual feature.
For potentially valuable pieces, an evaluation can help determine whether professional certification or auction placement makes sense.
No seller should guarantee a particular price before examining the actual coin.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
There are several mistakes that can reduce the chances of receiving a fair price.
Assuming every 1979 dollar is rare
The date alone does not create rarity.
Confusing an asking price with a sale price
An unsold online listing is not proof of market value.
Cleaning the coin
Cleaning can permanently damage collectible surfaces.
Misidentifying the Wide Rim
The difference can be subtle, so compare carefully.
Calling damage an error
A damaged coin is not automatically a mint error.
Ignoring the mint mark
The mint mark can be essential for identifying the correct issue.
Grading the coin too generously
A seller calling a coin “MS68” does not make it an MS68.
Using poor photographs
Blurry photographs make buyers suspicious and can hide important details.
Promising a guaranteed value
Coin values change with condition, rarity and market demand.
A Simple 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Checklist
Before selling your coin, check the following:
- Is the date definitely 1979?
- Is there a P, D or S mint mark?
- Is the coin circulated or uncirculated?
- Is it a proof?
- If it is a 1979-P, is it Narrow Rim or Wide Rim?
- If it is a 1979-S proof, is it Type 1 or Type 2?
- Does the coin have unusual mint-made characteristics?
- Has the coin been cleaned?
- Are the surfaces original?
- Are there major scratches or damage?
- Does the coin appear unusually high grade?
- Would professional authentication make sense?
- Have you compared actual completed sales?
- Are your photographs clear?
- Does your auction description accurately describe the coin?
If several answers point toward a scarce variety or exceptional condition, the coin deserves closer examination.
Final Thoughts
The 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar is an excellent example of how a coin can be historically important without every individual example being rare.
Millions were produced, so the average circulated 1979 dollar is generally not a high-value rarity.
But collectors have several reasons to examine these coins carefully.
The 1979-P Wide Rim or Near Date variety can be significantly more desirable than the common Narrow Rim version. The 1979-S proof series also contains the Type 1 and scarcer Type 2 mintmark varieties. Exceptional Mint State coins and genuine mint errors can create additional premiums.
The most important lesson is to identify the exact coin before assigning a price.
Do not clean it.
Do not rely on an exaggerated internet listing.
Do not assume that every old-looking coin is rare.
Instead, examine the date, mint mark, rim, variety, condition and possible errors. If the coin appears to have genuine collector potential, professional authentication or certification may be worthwhile.
For someone preparing a United States coin auction listing, accurate identification and honest presentation are much more valuable than an unrealistic headline.
A normal 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar may be a modest collectible, while a scarce variety, high-grade specimen or authenticated mint error can become a much more interesting auction piece.
That is what makes the 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar worth checking carefully before you spend it, sell it or place it in an auction.