Outline for “Susan B Anthony Coin Value and History Guide”
A 1979 Susan B Anthony dollar coin could be worth $1,450 if uncirculated. This fact reveals the hidden value in these coins. As a collector, I’m captivated by this dollar’s potential worth and rich history.
The Susan B Anthony coin honors a key women’s rights activist. It holds a special place in US numismatics. This coin commemorates the efforts leading to the 19th amendment.
In 1979, the US Mint produced over 757 million Susan B Anthony dollars. This massive run created a controversial yet significant coin. Most circulate at face value, but rare specimens can sell for thousands.
Key Takeaways:
- Susan B Anthony coins can range from face value to $1,450 in value
- The coin honors a key figure in the women’s rights movement
- Over 757 million coins were minted in 1979 across three facilities
- Rare error coins can fetch exceptionally high prices
- The coin’s design and history make it significant for collectors
Overview of the Susan B. Anthony Coin
The Susan B. Anthony coin is a historic piece honoring a key suffrage figure. Minted in 1979, it quickly became a collectible despite initial challenges.
Key Features and Design Elements
The coin’s front shows Susan B. Anthony’s portrait. Its back features an eagle landing on the moon. It has a unique eleven-sided inner border, setting it apart from other coins.
The coin’s copper-nickel clad makeup was chosen to cut minting costs1.
Historical Significance
In 1979, the Mint produced 750 million coins. However, production dropped to 90 million in 1980 due to mixed public reception1.
The San Francisco Mint made two versions in 1980. One for circulation and another for the United States Proof Set. They sold over 3.5 million Proof Sets at $10 each1.
The 1980-S Susan B. Anthony Dollar Proof is still popular today. Its value depends on its condition. Better-kept coins fetch higher prices.
This coin represents a unique part of U.S. coinage history. It also reminds us of the ongoing fight for women’s rights and social progress.
The History of the Susan B. Anthony Coin
The Susan B. Anthony coin honors a trailblazing women’s rights activist. This unique coin made history in American numismatics. Let’s explore its fascinating origin and societal impact.
Introduction to the Coin’s Origin
In 1979, the U.S. Mint launched the Susan B. Anthony dollar. It aimed to replace paper currency with a more cost-effective option. However, its similarity to the quarter caused public confusion.
The Role of Susan B. Anthony in Women’s Rights
Susan B. Anthony was a key figure in the women’s suffrage movement. Her tireless efforts helped secure the 19th Amendment, granting women voting rights. Featuring her on a coin recognized women’s contributions to American history.
“Failure is impossible.” – Susan B. Anthony
Minting Process and Initial Reception
The minting process balanced cost-effectiveness with distinctive features. The Mint produced these coins from 1979 to 1981, and again in 1999. Despite early challenges, the coin has become popular among collectors.
Today, you can find Susan B. Anthony coin sets selling for $39.95 on auction sites2.
| Year | Mintage | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1979 | 360 million | Initial release, wide rim variety |
| 1980 | 89 million | Reduced mintage |
| 1981 | 9.7 million | Last year of initial run |
| 1999 | 41 million | Final year of production |
The Susan B. Anthony coin overcame early setbacks to become a symbol of progress. It continues to fascinate collectors and historians with its unique place in numismatic history.
Variations of the Susan B. Anthony Coin
The Susan B. Anthony dollar offers collectors a range of fascinating variations. These differences make this coin an intriguing subject for study. Collectors find it captivating due to its unique features.
1979 Minting Differences
The first year of the Susan B. Anthony dollar saw notable design clarity variations. Some 1979 coins show crisper details than others, enhancing their collectible appeal.
This quality variance stemmed from the US mint’s initial challenges. They struggled to strike such a detailed design on a small planchet.
1980 and 1981 Variations
In later years, the US mint made subtle adjustments to improve strike quality. The 1981-S Type 2 proof stands out as a prized collectible.
Its clearer mint mark significantly impacts its value in the collector’s market. These modifications make it highly sought after by enthusiasts.
| Year | Key Variations | Collectible Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1979 | Design clarity differences | Moderate to High |
| 1980 | Minor strike improvements | Moderate |
| 1981 | Type 2 proof with clear mint mark | High |
Collectors eagerly seek these variations, with some commanding premium prices. A well-preserved 1981-S Type 2 proof can fetch up to $39.95 on eBay2.
The value of these coins can change based on market demand and condition. This makes them an exciting addition to any numismatic collection3.
Collectibility and Demand
The Susan B. Anthony coin is a key piece in American numismatics. Its demand has varied since its release. This collectible honors the suffrage movement and is popular among coin enthusiasts.
Factors Affecting Demand
Several elements impact Susan B. Anthony coin collectibility. Condition is crucial, with pristine coins commanding higher prices. The mintage year also affects value, with some years more desirable.
The coin’s historical significance, especially its link to women’s rights, boosts its appeal. It attracts both collectors and history buffs alike.
Notable Events in Coin Collecting
Certain dates in the Susan B. Anthony series have sparked great interest. The 1979-P Near Date and 1981-S Type 2 proof are highly sought after. These rare variants have seen significant value increases over time4.
Auctions featuring these coins have drawn attention. Well-preserved specimens have fetched impressive prices recently. This reflects growing interest in this numismatic piece.
Educational programs highlighting the coin’s history have boosted its collectible status. These efforts have increased its appeal beyond traditional coin collecting circles.
| Year | Variant | Collectibility Factor |
|---|---|---|
| 1979 | P Near Date | High |
| 1981 | S Type 2 Proof | Very High |
| 1999 | Standard Issue | Moderate |
The coin’s tribute to the suffrage movement has sparked wide interest. It bridges history and coin collecting, making it a prized commemorative piece. This broader appeal has cemented its status as a sought-after collectible.
How to Determine the Value of Your Coin
Figuring out your Susan B. Anthony dollar’s worth takes skill. It mixes historic coin knowledge with market understanding. Let’s explore coin grading and market trends to uncover its value.
Grading System Explained
The coin grading system ranges from Poor (P-1) to Perfect Mint State (MS-70). Luster, strike quality, and feature preservation all affect a coin’s grade.
Details matter when grading coins. Even tiny differences can greatly impact a coin’s value.
A 1980-S Susan B. Anthony Dollar in Proof 69 sells for under $101. But in PCGS PR70DCAM condition, it can fetch $26 to $30 on eBay1.
Market Trends and Their Impact
Market trends can make coin values change quickly. What’s popular today might not be tomorrow.
The 1980 United States Proof Set once sold for $40.57 in today’s money. Now it trades for just $9-$101.
Some coins can become extremely valuable. An 1850 $10 gold piece sold for $1,260,000 at auction3!
Staying updated with coin market reports is crucial. The US Mint’s production numbers offer valuable clues.
In 1980, they minted 90 million Susan B. Anthony Dollars. This was down from 750 million in 19791.
Selling Susan B. Anthony Coins
Susan B. Anthony coins are more than just money. They’re a piece of history with real value. Let’s look at how to sell these special coins and get the best price.
These coins, made by the US Mint, honor a great American woman. Selling them can be fun and rewarding for coin lovers.
Where to Sell Your Coins
You have several choices for selling your Susan B. Anthony coins:
- Coin dealers
- Online marketplaces
- Auction houses
- Coin shows
Each option has good and bad points. Online sites like eBay can reach many buyers. One eBay seller has great scores: 4.9 for descriptions, 4.9 for shipping, and 5.0 for talking with buyers2.
Best Practices for Maximizing Value
To get the most money for your Susan B. Anthony coins:
- Get your coins graded by experts
- Research current market trends
- Time your sale wisely
- Think about the coin’s condition and rarity
These coins can be worth different amounts. A 1980-S Susan B. Anthony Dollar Proof usually sells for about $5 ungraded. But perfect Proof 70 coins have sold for $25 to $30 at auctions1.
| Coin Grade | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Raw | $5 |
| Proof 69 | Under $10 |
| Proof 70 | $25 – $30 |
The coin market can change quickly. Keep up with market trends to make smart choices. Building good relationships with trusted dealers can help you sell better.
The Coin’s Role in Modern Numismatics
The Susan B. Anthony dollar is a prized item in modern coin collecting. It honors a woman who fought for women’s rights. Its design and history make it popular among all collectors.
Popularity Among Collectors Today
Collectors value this coin for its link to American history. It’s accessible to new collectors and valuable to experienced ones.
Some coins gain value over time, while others lose it. The 1980 United States Proof Set has lost 75% of its value. It now trades for about $9-$10 in December 20241.
Educational Value in Coin Collecting
The Susan B. Anthony dollar teaches about women’s rights and social progress. Its design shows how US coinage has changed. Many collectors value it for highlighting Anthony’s work as an activist.
Coin collecting reveals details about coin production. The 1980-S Susan B. Anthony Dollar weighs 8.1 grams and is 26.5 mm wide. It has copper-nickel outer layers and a pure copper center1.
These details fascinate collectors and add educational value to coin collecting. The Susan B. Anthony dollar is more than just money.
It’s a piece of American history honoring a champion of equality. Collectors appreciate its importance as a symbol of progress in women’s rights.
Common Misconceptions
The Susan B. Anthony dollar often confuses collectors and the public. This historic coin has sparked many misunderstandings. Let’s clear up some common myths about this numismatic collectible.
Misunderstanding the Coin’s Purpose
Many think the Susan B. Anthony dollar was just for commemoration. In fact, the US Mint meant it for everyday use. This led to hoarding, which ironically limited its use in commerce.
The coin’s short production doesn’t make it rare. Many collectors sought these coins eagerly. Yet, their abundance in mint condition tells a different story.
Some United States Mint Treasury Department Proof Sets can sell for $1905. Collectors often value these sets differently based on various factors.
Clarifying Rarity vs. Demand
It’s key to separate rarity from demand when valuing a coin. Not all Susan B. Anthony dollars are rare or valuable. Their worth depends on condition, mintage, and collector interest.
| Year | Mintage | Typical Value (Uncirculated) |
|---|---|---|
| 1979 | High | $3-$5 |
| 1980 | Medium | $4-$6 |
| 1981 | Low | $6-$10 |
| 1999 | Very Low | $15-$25 |
Some think all older coins are valuable. But the numismatic market is more complex. A vintage toy from a similar era can be worth more.
For example, the Lehmann Adam the Porter windup figure can fetch $3005. This shows that age alone doesn’t determine value in collectibles.
“Value in numismatics is often about perception and demand, not just age or rarity. The Susan B. Anthony dollar is a prime example of this principle.”
Knowing these details helps collectors make smart choices about this interesting US Mint coin. It’s crucial to understand the nuances of coin collecting.
Preservation and Care
Keeping Susan B. Anthony coins in top shape is key. These historic pieces need special care to maintain their value. Proper storage and handling are crucial for long-term preservation.
Proper Storage Techniques
Use non-reactive holders or albums made for coin preservation. Keep humidity and temperature in check to avoid damage. Plastic flips, coin folders, and airtight containers work well.
These options shield your coins from harmful environmental factors. Choose the storage method that best suits your collection’s needs.
Cleaning Dos and Don’ts
Cleaning Susan B. Anthony coins can hurt their value. Steer clear of harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. If cleaning is a must, ask a professional numismatist for help.
Always handle coins by their edges. This prevents fingerprints and oils from harming the surface. Regular checks help spot issues early.
Following these tips will keep your coins valuable for years. Your Susan B. Anthony collection can become a lasting legacy6.
Conclusion: The Legacy of the Susan B. Anthony Coin
Susan B. Anthony was a trailblazer for women’s rights in America. She co-founded the National Woman Suffrage Association in 186978. Her efforts led to the 19th amendment, granting women voting rights in 19207.
Its Impact on Numismatics and Society
In 1979, the U.S. Mint honored Anthony by featuring her on a dollar coin8. She became the first woman on U.S. currency. This sparked new interest in Anthony’s life and work.
The coin’s release coincided with growing recognition of women’s societal contributions. It inspired future generations to keep fighting for equality.
Future Outlook for Coin Collectors
The Susan B. Anthony dollar may increase in value as interest in diverse currency representation grows. Collectors seek these coins for their historical significance, not just monetary worth.
The Susan B. Anthony House in Rochester, New York, now serves as a museum7. It preserves her legacy for future generations.
Anthony’s words, “Failure is impossible,” still inspire social change advocates today7. This reflects the lasting impact of both Anthony and her coin.
