The Rarest Valuable Susan B. Anthony Dollar is a modern U.S. small-sized circulation coin minted from 1979 to 1981 and again in 1999. It was once categorized as a clad copper-nickel issue for everyday transactions, but it is now actively traded among collectors and short-term investors. Certain varieties and excellent specimens command substantial premiums in today’s market. With distinctive mint marks, proof finishes, and MS67 and higher grading levels, some pieces can trade in the four-figure to low-five-figure range.
Coin Specifications
The Susan B. Anthony Dollar has a face value of $1 and measures 26.5 mm in diameter and 2.0 mm in thickness. It weighs 8.1 grams and has a reeded edge. The obverse features a portrait of Susan B. Anthony, while the reverse depicts an eagle landing on the moon. Mint marks include P, D, and S. Business strike and proof versions were produced, with certain varieties, such as the 1979-P Wide Rim and the 1981-S Type 2 Proof, particularly sought after.
Metal Composition
This dollar is composed of a copper core, with outer layers composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel, giving it the appearance of silver, even though it contains no actual silver. This clad structure provides durability for circulation and stability in long-term storage. Its total weight is 8.1 grams, with a pure copper center sandwiched between two cupronickel layers. The reeded edge and metallic finish remain key authentication points, especially when verifying high-grade or error-prone examples in the collector market.
Rarity and Demand
The rarest and most valuable Susan B. Anthony dollar pieces are identified by limited variety rather than by mintage total. The 1979-P Wide Rim variety has a smaller date gap, while the 1981-S Type 2 Proof has a clean, sharp mint mark. High-grade certified examples with MS67 or PR70 Deep Cameo grades are highly sought after. The top grades are scarce, and competition among registry collectors maintains demand, especially for coins with a clean surface and good strike quality.
Minting Details
Susan B. Anthony dollars were minted in Philadelphia (P), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S). Business strikes were primarily produced for circulation, while San Francisco issued proof versions with a mirror-like field and frosted devices. The 1981 issue was not issued in large quantities for circulation, increasing its numismatic focus. Over 41 million pieces were minted in the 1999 revival, yet premium value centers on condition and unique variety rather than bulk production numbers or general availability.
Condition and Grading
Condition significantly impacts the market price of the rarest and most valuable Susan B. Anthony dollars. Coins graded MS65 to MS67 display sharp strike detail, clean surfaces, and minimal contact marks. At MS68, these are rare and command good value. Proof coins graded PR69 or PR70 Deep Cameo have full mirror fields and high-contrast frosting. Minor scratches, rim marks, or a dull luster also significantly reduce value, making professional grading essential to maximize resale potential.
Market Value
Commonly circulated Susan B. Anthony dollars are priced close to face value, typically between $1 and $5, depending on condition. However, a 1979-P Wide Rim in MS67 can reach $3,000 to $5,000, while elite MS68 coins can exceed $10,000. A PR70 Deep Cameo in a 1981-S Type 2 Proof grade can fetch $4,000 to $8,000. Prices depend heavily on mint mark clarity, strike sharpness, attractive appearance, and certified grade, rather than raw age alone.
Investment Potential
The rarest and most valuable Susan B. Anthony dollar offers targeted investment appeal due to its recognizable design and limited high-grade population. Investors focus on top-graded registry pieces and confirmed varieties with strong visual appeal. Entry-level examples require modest capital, while MS68 or PR70 coins represent premium assets. Market stability is driven by consistent collector demand, transparent grading standards, and the coin’s first U.S. Supported by its status as a circulating dollar, featuring a real historical woman.
Conclusion
The rarest and most valuable Susan B. Anthony dollar coins combine the precision of modern minting with some exceptionally rare varieties that command four-digit and sometimes five-digit market values. With a 26.5 mm diameter, 8.1-gram clad composition, and special issues like the 1979-P Wide Rim and 1981-S Type 2 Proof, collector demand is driven by condition and grading. High-grade certified examples remain the strongest performers, making this small-sized dollar an attractive option for focused numismatic collections and strategic investment positioning.