Susan B. Anthony : It was just another stop for coffee. A woman handed over a Susan B. Anthony dollar to pay for her drink, completely unaware that the coin she used was not just any piece of change — it was a rare minting error worth nearly $900,000. This unsuspecting transaction would eventually make headlines in the numismatic world, after the coin was authenticated and sold at auction for $890,000.
The Legacy of the Susan B. Anthony Dollar
First minted in 1979, the Susan B. Anthony dollar marked a milestone in U.S. currency history. It was the first coin to feature a real historical woman — the pioneering suffragist Susan B. Anthony — instead of a symbolic figure like Liberty. However, the coin struggled in circulation. Its size and color were too close to a quarter, causing widespread confusion. Despite its underwhelming public reception, the coin quietly became a favorite among collectors, especially due to its short production run and the presence of rare variants.
A Rare Error Hidden in Plain Sight
The coin used in that coffee purchase was later discovered to be a transitional mint error — a rare and highly valuable type of coin. Transitional errors occur when a coin is mistakenly struck using an incorrect metal blank (planchet) or an outdated die. In this case, the Susan B. Anthony dollar may have been struck on a planchet intended for another denomination or composed of a different metal, creating a one-of-a-kind collectible with extreme rarity.
From Coffee Shop to Auction House
After being spent unknowingly, the rare dollar eventually found its way into the hands of a knowledgeable collector who immediately noticed it looked different from standard Susan B. Anthony coins. After submitting the coin for authentication, it was verified as a genuine error with extraordinary market value. The coin’s rarity, flawless preservation, and unique history led to intense bidding at auction — ultimately selling for $890,000.
Why Some Coins Are Worth a Fortune
Not all coins are created equal. Factors like minting errors, limited production runs, incorrect planchets, or unusual die combinations can transform an everyday coin into a historical artifact. These rare circumstances increase scarcity and collector demand, which significantly drive up the coin’s value. Even coins from relatively modern series, like the Susan B. Anthony dollar, can command massive prices when rare variants are involved.
Treasure in Your Pocket — Still Possible Today
This story has inspired a wave of coin checking across the country. The idea that a coin in your purse or wallet could be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars isn’t far-fetched. Many error coins go unnoticed because they look deceptively normal. Whether tucked in a change jar or passed along in a routine purchase, coins like this one could still be circulating today — waiting to be discovered by someone with a sharp eye and a bit of luck.
Q: What makes a Susan B. Anthony dollar valuable?
A: While most are worth face value, rare varieties — especially transitional errors or proof coins — can be worth thousands or more. Rarity, condition, and type of minting error are key factors.
Q: How do I know if my Susan B. Anthony dollar is rare?
A: Look for unusual weight, color, or design inconsistencies. Coins with wrong planchets, doubling, or other minting anomalies should be evaluated by a professional grading service.
Q: Can I still find valuable coins in circulation?
A: Yes. Though rare, error coins and overlooked collectibles do turn up in circulation, estate sales, and coin jars. It’s worth checking any unusual-looking coins.
Q: Should I clean a coin before getting it appraised?
A: No. Cleaning a coin can significantly reduce its value. Always handle rare coins carefully and keep them in protective holders until evaluated.
Q: Where can I sell a rare coin?
A: You can sell rare coins through reputable auction houses, coin dealers, or certified platforms like Heritage Auctions or Great Collections. Always get a coin graded first to verify authenticity and value.
