$880,000 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar: The Susan B. Anthony Dollar holds a special place in American coin history. First released in 1979, it was the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman rather than a symbolic figure like Lady Liberty. Susan B. Anthony was a powerful voice in the fight for women’s rights, and putting her image on a coin was a strong tribute. Although the coin was meant to be widely used, it never became very popular among the public. Many people found it easy to confuse with a quarter because of its similar size and color.
What Makes the 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar So Valuable?
The 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar is one of the rarer issues of this coin. Unlike earlier versions, the 1981 coins were not released to the general public. They were only made for coin collectors and were part of special mint sets. This means far fewer of them were produced, making them harder to find today. If someone happens to come across one in regular circulation, that’s a rare event in itself. But there’s more to the story—some of these coins can be worth thousands, even hundreds of thousands, depending on a specific marking.
Could a $1 Coin Be Worth $880,000?
It sounds unbelievable, but yes—it’s possible. There is a version of the 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar that has sold for as much as $880,000. However, not all 1981 coins are worth that much. The high value comes from very specific details on the coin. These include errors, rare mint marks, or coins in perfect uncirculated condition, which are very difficult to find. This amount was reached at an auction where collectors were willing to pay a premium for a perfect and rare example of this coin.
The Mint Mark: What It Is and Why It Matters
The mint mark on a coin tells you where it was made. For the Susan B. Anthony Dollar, common mint marks include “P” for Philadelphia, “D” for Denver, and “S” for San Francisco. The location of the mint mark on this coin is near Susan B. Anthony’s shoulder. For the 1981 version, the “S” mint mark is especially important. Coins with this mark that were made for collectors (proof coins) can be highly valuable—especially if they are in excellent condition. Some of the coins with this mint mark even show doubling or unusual features, which can increase the value dramatically.
Still in Circulation? Here’s the Truth
Even though the Susan B. Anthony Dollar is not being made anymore, you can still sometimes find it in circulation. However, finding a rare 1981 version is extremely unlikely. Most of the valuable ones are in the hands of collectors or were saved in mint packaging. Still, it’s always a good idea to check your old change or visit a bank that deals in coins, just in case. You never know when you might get lucky.
What Condition Makes a Coin So Valuable?
Condition is one of the most important things when it comes to a coin’s value. Coins that are in perfect shape—called “mint state” or “proof”—are the most sought-after. These coins have no scratches, wear, or damage. In fact, many of them were never used in everyday life. The $880,000 Susan B. Anthony Dollar was in flawless condition and came from a special proof set. Even a regular coin in great shape can be worth a lot more than face value.
Collectors’ Craze: Why Some Will Pay So Much
For serious coin collectors, rare coins are not just pieces of metal—they are treasures. A coin like the 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar with the right mint mark and in perfect condition can become a prized part of a collection. Some collectors are even willing to spend huge amounts at auctions to own such a coin. This is why some versions of this $1 coin have reached prices as high as $880,000.
Quick Look: Key Features of the Rare 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Here is a simple table to help you understand what to look for in a valuable version of the coin:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 1981 |
| Mint Mark | “S” (San Francisco) |
| Condition | Proof or Mint State (Flawless) |
| Circulation Status | Mostly not circulated; found in mint sets only |
| Estimated High Value | Up to $880,000 (in special cases) |
FAQs About the 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Is the 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar still used in everyday life?
It’s very rare to find it in circulation today, but it’s not impossible. Most are with collectors or stored away.
What makes a Susan B. Anthony Dollar worth thousands?
The combination of the year, mint mark, and condition can make it extremely valuable. Rare errors also add to the price.
Where is the mint mark on the coin?
It’s located near Susan B. Anthony’s shoulder on the front of the coin.
How do I know if my coin is worth anything?
Check the year, mint mark, and look closely at the condition. If it looks perfect and has an “S” mint mark from 1981, it may be valuable. You can take it to a coin dealer or appraiser for a closer look.
