Susan B. Anthony : Could a simple coin in your pocket be worth a small fortune? That’s the question on many collectors’ minds after reports surfaced about a rare 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar valued at up to $880,000. This unassuming coin, minted in the final year of the series’ initial run, could still be hiding in circulation — if you know what to look for.
Why the 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Is Special
The Susan B. Anthony (SBA) dollar, introduced in 1979, was the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman instead of a symbolic figure. Although widely minted, the coin was unpopular due to its similarity in size to the quarter. As a result, the series was discontinued after just a few years, with the 1981 SBA dollar intended mainly for collectors — not for general circulation.
That makes any 1981 SBA dollar unusual to find in your change. But there’s one version of this coin that stands out dramatically from the rest.
The $880,000 SBA Dollar: What Makes It So Rare?
The coin stirring buzz among numismatists is a 1981-S Proof Type 2 Susan B. Anthony dollar, known for its sharply defined “S” mintmark. This special variety was produced at the San Francisco Mint as a proof coin, which means it was struck with special dies and polished for a mirror-like finish, intended strictly for collectors.
Here’s what distinguishes it:
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Proof Type 2 Mintmark (Clear “S”): Earlier proof coins that year had a “blobby” or filled “S” mintmark. The rarer Type 2 has a sharply defined, clearer “S”, appearing more like a sans-serif font.
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Condition: The $880,000 valuation applies to coins in PR70 Deep Cameo condition — a perfect grade with ultra-deep mirrors and no visible flaws even under magnification.
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Authentication: This value only holds if verified and graded by a top-tier service like PCGS or NGC.
Could It Still Be in Circulation?
Technically, yes — but it’s extremely unlikely. Since 1981 SBA proof coins weren’t released into circulation, any that appear in pocket change likely came from broken proof sets or were mistakenly spent. Still, coin dealers have reported the occasional rare coin turning up in everyday transactions.
The best chance of finding one is not in your wallet, but in estate sales, inherited collections, or overlooked coin sets stored away for decades.
How to Check Your 1981 SBA Dollar
Here’s how to identify whether you have something valuable:
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Date and Mintmark: Look for “1981” with an “S” mintmark below Susan B. Anthony’s portrait.
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Mirror Finish: Proof coins have a shiny, reflective background and frosted images.
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Mintmark Shape: Compare the “S” under magnification — if it’s clear and well-defined, you may have a Type 2.
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Condition: Even a Type 2 won’t fetch big money unless it’s in pristine, uncirculated condition.
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Get it Graded: If you suspect it’s rare, submit the coin to PCGS or NGC for professional grading.
Final Thoughts
The chances of finding a Susan B. Anthony dollar worth nearly a million dollars are slim — but not zero. If you’ve got old coins tucked away or happen upon a 1981-S dollar, take a closer look at that mintmark. It could be a rare treasure hiding in plain sight.
FAQs: $880,000 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Q1: Why is the 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar valuable?
A: Most 1981 Susan B. Anthony (SBA) dollars were made only for collectors and never released for general circulation. One rare variety — the 1981-S Proof Type 2 — has a distinct, clear “S” mintmark and can be worth thousands, especially in perfect PR70 Deep Cameo condition.
Q2: What is a Proof Type 2 coin?
A: Proof Type 2 coins are specially struck for collectors with sharp details and mirror-like finishes. The Type 2 designation refers specifically to the clear, well-defined “S” mintmark used on some 1981-S proof coins. Earlier versions had a “blobby” or filled mintmark, now known as Type 1.
Q3: How do I know if I have a Type 2 mintmark?
A: Use a magnifying glass to examine the “S” mintmark below Susan B. Anthony’s portrait. A Type 2 mintmark appears clear, sharp, and precise, resembling a clean sans-serif “S.” If it’s blurry or filled in, it’s likely a Type 1.
Q4: Can I find one of these coins in pocket change?
A: It’s very unlikely. Proof coins like the 1981-S Type 2 were not intended for circulation. However, if a proof set was broken up or mistakenly spent, one could theoretically show up in change — though this would be extremely rare.
Q5: How much is a regular 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar worth?
A: A regular 1981 SBA dollar — especially from circulation — is typically worth $2 to $20, depending on its condition and mintmark. Only the rare 1981-S Type 2 proof coins in pristine condition carry the high value.