$880,000 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar: Most people don’t think twice when they see a Susan B. Anthony dollar — a small, silvery coin that looks like a quarter but is actually worth one dollar. But what if one of those coins was hiding a secret? According to rare coin experts, a specific 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar is now valued at up to $880,000, and shockingly, it could still be found in circulation today.
Why the 1981 SBA Dollar Is So Valuable
The 1981 Susan B. Anthony (SBA) dollar is already among the scarcest in the series. By that year, public interest in the coin had dropped, so the U.S. Mint struck far fewer examples than in previous years — and only for official mint sets, not for general circulation.
So how could one end up in your change?
Occasionally, specimen coins from mint sets are accidentally released or separated from their packaging. Some also enter circulation from estate sales or collections being spent unknowingly.
But the true rarity lies in a few 1981-S proof coins and error strikes that combine high-grade condition, unusual finishes, and off-metal planchets — all of which drive the value toward nearly $1 million.
Key Features of the $880,000 Coin
To be worth that much, a 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar must have one or more of the following:
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Mint mark “S” (for San Francisco) – Indicates a proof or limited-mintage coin.
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Struck on the wrong planchet – For example, a dollar coin struck on a quarter or foreign blank.
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Deep Cameo finish – A pristine, mirror-like background with frosted details.
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Perfect or near-perfect condition – Graded PR69 or PR70 by PCGS or NGC.
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Proof Type 2 mint mark – A more rounded and clearer “S” on the coin, indicating a special die.
How to Check if You Have One
You can identify a potentially valuable Susan B. Anthony dollar by doing the following:
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Look at the date and mint mark – Focus on 1981 coins with an “S,” “P,” or “D” mint mark.
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Check the edge – SBA dollars have a plain edge (no reeding like quarters).
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Inspect for errors – Off-center strikes, missing details, or wrong metal tone.
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Use a magnifier – Look closely for a Type 2 “S” mint mark on proofs.
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Compare condition – Coins with no scratches, marks, or wear are more likely to be valuable.
What to Do If You Find One
If you think you’ve found a rare 1981 SBA dollar:
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Don’t clean it – Cleaning decreases value.
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Store it carefully – Use a soft cloth or coin holder.
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Get it graded – Send it to a professional service like PCGS or NGC for authentication.
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Consult a coin expert – Rare coin dealers or auction houses can help estimate its true value.
Final Thoughts
While most Susan B. Anthony dollars are worth just $1, the 1981 variants — especially rare proofs and minting errors — can command astronomical prices. One such coin, perfectly preserved and struck under rare conditions, is now valued at $880,000.
So the next time you get change back, take a closer look at those dollar coins. You might just hold a small fortune in the palm of your hand.
FAQs $880,000 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Still in Circulation
Why is the 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar worth $880,000?
Certain 1981 SBA dollars are extremely rare, especially proof coins, Type 2 mint mark varieties, and minting errors (like being struck on the wrong metal planchet). If in perfect condition, these can fetch up to $880,000.
What is a Type 2 “S” mint mark?
The Type 2 mint mark on 1981-S proof coins is sharper and clearer than the Type 1. It was made with a revised punch and appears more rounded — making it much rarer and more valuable.
Can I really find one of these in my change?
While rare, it’s possible. Some proof coins or errors may have entered circulation by mistake or from collections. Always check SBA dollars dated 1981 for unusual details or pristine condition.
What should I do if I think I have one?
Don’t clean it. Handle the coin gently, store it safely, and have it authenticated and graded by a reputable service like PCGS or NGC to confirm its rarity and value.