In an astonishing auction that captivated coin collectors and enthusiasts alike, a rare 1979-P Susan B. Anthony dollar sold for a staggering $980,000. This intense bidding war, lasting several hours, highlights how even the most overlooked coins can become prized treasures under the right circumstances.
The Story Behind a Common Coin with a Rare Twist
At first glance, the 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar appears ordinary. Introduced as the first U.S. coin to honor a real historical woman, Susan B. Anthony, this design was widely circulated but often overlooked. Its size, similar to a quarter, led to public confusion, and millions of these coins were minted—most still only worth their face value.
So what made this particular coin stand out and command nearly a million dollars?
The Rare “Wide Rim” Variety
Numismatic experts identify this coin as a rare “Wide Rim” or “Near Date” variety, produced in limited quantities early in 1979 before the design was modified. What truly sets this example apart is its near-perfect condition. Graded MS68 by a professional coin grading service, this level of quality is exceptionally rare for this issue, making it a prized collector’s item.
The Auction That Shocked Collectors Worldwide
The auction took place at a prestigious numismatic event in California. While experts anticipated a strong sale, the final price far exceeded expectations. Collectors from around the globe engaged in a fierce bidding battle, driving the price to an unprecedented $980,000.
For a coin once dismissed by the public and vending machines, this sale marks a remarkable turnaround in its fortunes.
Why the 1979-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar Matters
The Susan B. Anthony dollar was groundbreaking for its time. Released in 1979, it was the first U.S. coin to honor a woman’s legacy—Susan B. Anthony, a pioneer in women’s suffrage and civil rights.
Though initially unpopular due to its size and resemblance to the quarter, the coin has seen a resurgence in interest over the last decade. This renewed attention is driven by collectors fascinated by feminist history and modern coin varieties.
The 1979-P Wide Rim variety, especially in high-grade condition like this auctioned coin, has become one of the most sought-after collectibles in modern U.S. coinage.
Could You Have One in Your Pocket?
While most 1979-P Susan B. Anthony dollars remain worth just their face value, rare varieties like the Wide Rim can be identified by how close the date is to the rim—much closer than on the standard version.
Circulated Wide Rim coins may fetch $50 to $100, while uncirculated or professionally graded specimens can command hundreds or thousands of dollars. However, a near-perfect MS68 coin commanding nearly a million dollars is a true one-in-a-million find.
A Wake-Up Call for Coin Collectors
This incredible sale reminds collectors to pay closer attention to the coins they might already have. Valuable finds often emerge from estate sales, inherited collections, or long-forgotten coin jars. The key is rarity, condition, and historical significance.
For the Susan B. Anthony dollar—once rejected and undervalued—this seven-figure auction might just signal a new era of appreciation for modern coins.
Final Thoughts
As collectors increasingly explore undervalued modern coins, surprises like the $980,000 Susan B. Anthony dollar may become more common. One thing is clear: even coins that seem ordinary can hold extraordinary value when you know what to look for.