In a jaw-dropping moment for modern coin collectors, a rare Susan B. Anthony dollar featuring the elusive “Wide Rim” variant has just sold at auction for $25,000—proving once again that even late 20th-century pocket change can be hiding treasures.
The coin, originally worth just $1, is now sparking a new wave of interest among collectors and everyday Americans alike. The big question on everyone’s mind: Could you be holding one without even knowing it?
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What Is the Susan B. Anthony Dollar?
The Susan B. Anthony dollar was first minted in 1979, honoring the women’s rights pioneer and becoming the first U.S. coin to feature a real (non-allegorical) woman. However, the coin never quite caught on with the public due to its similarity in size to a quarter, and it was minted only between 1979–1981 and again briefly in 1999.
Despite its short run and lukewarm reception, some versions of the coin—particularly from the first year of issue—are now considered valuable collector items.
What Is the “Wide Rim” or “Near Date” Variant?
The “Wide Rim” variant, also called the “Near Date,” refers to a striking difference in how close the coin’s date is to the raised rim of the coin.
- Standard 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollars have a narrow rim, with noticeable space between the rim and the numbers in the date.
- Wide Rim variants feature a much thicker rim where the date is almost touching the edge—making it visually distinct and highly collectible.
This minting change was brief and corrected early, meaning only a small number of 1979-P Wide Rim dollars exist—making them significantly more valuable.
Why Did This Coin Sell for $25,000?
The recently sold coin was a 1979-P Wide Rim Susan B. Anthony dollar graded MS67+ by PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service). The “+” indicates it’s in near-perfect condition, just shy of flawless.
In coin collecting, condition (grade) is everything. While many Wide Rim examples exist in circulated condition and may be worth $100–$500, those in high mint-state grades are exceedingly rare. The $25,000 sale was for a top-grade specimen, and it represents the highest-end of what these coins can fetch.
How to Tell If You Have One
You don’t need a magnifying glass to check for a Wide Rim Susan B. Anthony dollar—just follow these steps:
- Look for the 1979 date.
- Check the mint mark: Only 1979-P (Philadelphia) coins have this variant.
- Inspect the space between the rim and the date:
- If there’s noticeable space, it’s the standard version.
- If the date is almost touching the rim, congratulations—you may have a Wide Rim!
Still unsure? Compare it to a regular 1979-P dollar, or take it to a coin dealer for confirmation.
Should You Get Yours Graded?
If you believe you have a 1979-P Wide Rim in uncirculated or mint condition, it may be worth getting professionally graded by PCGS or NGC. Grading determines the coin’s authenticity and quality, and significantly affects its market value.
Final Thoughts
The Susan B. Anthony dollar may have been short-lived and unpopular in its day, but rare variants like the 1979-P Wide Rim are rewriting its legacy—and potentially your bank account. With one recently selling for $25,000, it might be time to dig through your coin jars, drawers, or old family collections.
FAQs-Susan B. Anthony Dollar With Wide Rim Variant Just Sold for $25,000: Are You Holding One?
1. What is the “Wide Rim” Susan B. Anthony dollar?
It’s a 1979-P dollar coin where the date is very close to the edge (rim)—unlike the more common “Narrow Rim” version.
2. Why is it valuable?
It’s a rare early minting variation, and in high grades (like MS67+), it’s extremely scarce. One just sold for $25,000!
3. How can I tell if I have one?
Check for a 1979-P coin with the date nearly touching the rim. If there’s wide spacing, it’s the standard type.
4. Are circulated Wide Rim coins worth money too?
Yes—even in average condition, they can sell for $100–$500 depending on quality and demand.
5. What should I do if I think I have one?
Don’t spend it! Compare it to a known Narrow Rim coin, and if it looks like a Wide Rim, get it graded by PCGS or NGC.