The 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Coin Value holds a unique place in American history as the first circulating U.S. coin to feature a real woman—Susan B. Anthony, a champion of women’s rights. Recently, claims have surfaced suggesting that this coin could be worth an astonishing $384 million. But is this true? Let’s dive into the facts, explore its real value, and uncover what’s driving these bold headlines across the USA in 2025.
A Coin with a Historic Legacy
Introduced in 1979, the Susan B. Anthony Dollar was meant to replace the larger Eisenhower Dollar and reduce the use of $1 bills, saving the U.S. Mint millions in production costs. Designed by Chief Engraver Frank Gasparro, the coin features Anthony’s portrait on the front and an eagle landing on the moon on the back, symbolizing the Apollo 11 mission. It was a groundbreaking moment—never before had a non-mythical woman graced a U.S. coin in circulation.
However, the coin didn’t catch on with the public. Its size (26.5 mm) and copper-nickel composition made it too similar to a quarter, causing confusion in everyday transactions. By 1981, production halted due to low demand, with a brief revival in 1999. Over 757 million were minted in 1979 alone across the Philadelphia (P), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S) Mints, making it a common find in circulated condition.
The $384 Million Claim: Fact or Fiction?
The headline “1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Coin Value Worth $384 Million” has been trending lately, sparking curiosity among collectors and casual coin enthusiasts alike. But let’s set the record straight: no credible evidence supports this valuation for a single coin—or even the entire series. Experts in numismatics (the study of coins) agree that this figure is wildly exaggerated and likely stems from misinformation or clickbait.
So, what’s the real value? Most 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollars are worth just $1—their face value—if they’ve been circulated. However, certain rare varieties and high-quality specimens can fetch much more. Let’s break it down.
What Makes a 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Valuable?
While the average 1979 coin isn’t a goldmine, specific factors can drive up its worth significantly. Here’s what to look for:
1. Mint Marks and Varieties
1979-P Wide Rim (Near Date): The Philadelphia Mint produced two versions in 1979: the common Narrow Rim and the scarcer Wide Rim, where the date sits closer to the edge. In top condition (MS67 or higher), a Wide Rim coin can sell for $1,000 to $6,500 at auction, with a record sale of $6,995 in 2021.
1979-S Proof Type 2: San Francisco struck proof coins for collectors, and the Type 2 variety (with a clear “S” mint mark) is rarer than the Type 1 (filled “S”). A 1979-S Type 2 in pristine PF70 Ultra Cameo condition can fetch $135 to $1,955.
1979-D and 1979-S Circulation Strikes: These are common, with values ranging from $1 in worn condition to $25–$350 in uncirculated MS65–MS67 grades.
2. Condition Matters
Coin grading, done by services like PCGS or NGC, measures quality on a scale from 1 to 70. Circulated coins (grades below MS60) are worth face value. Uncirculated coins (MS60+) start at $5, while “gem” quality (MS65 or higher) coins can climb higher:
MS67: $150–$425 (P or D mint)MS68: Up to $4,850 (rare, finest known examples)
Proof coins, made for collectors with a mirror-like finish, range from $10 to over $1,000 depending on grade and variety.
3. Rare Errors
Mistakes during minting can create valuable oddities:
Off-Metal Strikes: A 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar struck on a nickel or quarter planchet can sell for $6,900 or more.
Wrong Planchet Errors: Coins struck on Sacagawea Dollar blanks (from 1999) have fetched up to $12,075 at auction.
Why the $384 Million Myth Persists
The $384 million claim likely comes from a misunderstanding or exaggeration of these rare cases. For example, if someone calculated the total value of all 757 million 1979 coins at an inflated price (say, $500 each for high-grade rarities), you’d get a massive sum—but that’s not how coin collecting works. Only a tiny fraction of coins reach those high values, and the vast majority remain worth $1.
Misinformation spreads fast online, especially with eye-catching headlines designed to grab attention. In 2025, numismatic experts caution against such stories, urging collectors to verify claims with reputable sources like auction records or grading services.
Current Trends in the USA (April 2025)
Interest in the Susan B. Anthony Dollar is rising again. Collectors are hunting for Wide Rim varieties and proof coins, driven by nostalgia and the coin’s historical significance. Auction houses report steady demand for high-grade examples, with prices holding firm:
A 1979-P Wide Rim MS67+ sold for $6,995 in 2021, and similar coins are trending at $6,000+ in 2025.
Error coins, like those on wrong planchets, remain hot, with recent sales hitting $7,000–$12,000.
Meanwhile, casual finders are checking pocket change, spurred by viral stories. Keyword searches like “Susan B. Anthony Dollar value” and “1979 coin worth millions” are spiking, reflecting public curiosity.
How to Check Your Coin’s Value
Found a 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar? Here’s how to assess it:
Look at the Mint Mark: Check above Anthony’s shoulder for a “P,” “D,” or “S.”
Examine the Rim: On 1979-P coins, see if the date is close to the edge (Wide Rim) or farther away (Narrow Rim).
Assess Condition: Is it worn or shiny? No scratches or wear means it could be uncirculated.
Get It Graded: For potential high-value coins, send it to PCGS or NGC for professional grading.
Consult Experts: Visit a local coin dealer or check recent auction results online.
The Bottom Line
The 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar isn’t worth $384 million—not even close. Most are worth $1, but rare varieties, pristine conditions, and unique errors can bring in hundreds or thousands of dollars. It’s a fascinating piece of U.S. history with a growing collector base, but don’t believe every headline you see.
So, next time you spot one in your change, take a closer look. You might not have a $384 million treasure, but you could be holding a small piece of numismatic gold worth far more than a buck!
FAQ’s
1. Is the 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar really worth $384 million?
No, this claim is exaggerated and likely misinformation. Most 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollars are worth $1, though rare varieties or high-grade examples can fetch $100 to $12,000+ at auction.
2. What makes a 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar valuable?
Mint mark: “P” (Philadelphia), “D” (Denver), or “S” (San Francisco).
Variety: The 1979-P Wide Rim (Near Date) or 1979-S Type 2 Proof are rarer.
Condition: Uncirculated (MS65+) or proof coins (PF70) are worth more.
Errors: Coins struck on wrong planchets or metals can sell for thousands.
3. How can I tell if I have a Wide Rim 1979-P coin?
Check the date on a 1979-P coin. If it’s close to the rim (Wide Rim or Near Date), it’s the scarcer variety, potentially worth $1,000–$6,500 in top condition.