In a twist that has stunned both casual collectors and seasoned numismatists, a rare 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar has reportedly been valued at an astounding $5.0 million—and what’s more surprising is that this coin is believed to still be circulating among everyday currency in the United States.
While most people pass over dollar coins without a second thought, this particular Susan B. Anthony Dollar has sparked a wave of interest due to its extreme rarity and mysterious background.
The Birth of a Historic Coin
First issued in 1979, the Susan B. Anthony Dollar was the first U.S. coin to honor a real woman, a nod to the pioneering suffragist who helped lead the fight for women’s right to vote. At the time, the coin was a bold design choice, replacing the larger Eisenhower Dollar with a smaller and more practical version. However, the coin’s similarity in size and color to the quarter led to confusion, limiting its popularity in everyday use.
Despite its lukewarm public reception, the Susan B. Anthony Dollar has maintained historical significance—and certain versions have become immensely valuable.
What Makes This Coin Worth $5.0 Million?
The 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar in question isn’t your average issue. Experts believe it’s a pattern coin—an extremely rare prototype struck before the coin went into mass production. These coins often contain subtle differences, such as a unique mint mark, a misplaced design element, or an unusual composition.
According to collectors and auction house whispers, this particular dollar may feature a proof strike with a “Wide Rim” or “Near Date” variation, created during a limited early production run at the Philadelphia Mint. Only a handful of these are known to exist, and most are locked away in private collections.
What’s sparking headlines is that this elusive piece—possibly one of those ultra-rare early patterns—might still be in public circulation, lost among vending machine returns, change counters, or coin jars across the country.
Why It Matters Now
The buzz around this coin isn’t just about its value—it’s about the possibility that something so small and overlooked could be worth millions. In an economy where every dollar counts, the idea that loose change could hold a fortune is capturing the imagination of millions of Americans.
Numismatic communities have taken to social media to share tips and images to help everyday people recognize valuable Susan B. Anthony Dollars. Forums are flooded with users posting photos of their 1979 coins, hoping they may have struck gold—metaphorically speaking.
How to Spot the Million-Dollar Coin
Not every 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar is valuable, but here are a few features collectors say to look for:
- Mint Mark “P” with Wide Rim/Near Date: The date appears much closer to the edge of the coin than on standard versions.
- Proof Finish: Mirror-like surfaces and frosted details usually indicate a special strike.
- Flawless Condition: Coins that have not been circulated and show no signs of wear are much more valuable.
- Unusual Variations: Any spelling error, off-center strike, or doubled image could dramatically increase the value.
If you think you have a coin that fits these criteria, experts suggest having it professionally graded before selling or auctioning it. Coin grading services like PCGS or NGC can authenticate and evaluate the piece.
Also Read:- The 1971 Eisenhower Dollar Valued at $4.8 Million, Still in Circulation — Could You Be Holding It?
Final Thoughts
The notion that a $1 coin could carry a $5 million price tag might sound too good to be true—but in the world of rare coins, it’s not unprecedented. With the 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar now making headlines, there’s never been a better time to check your change.
That coin rattling around in your junk drawer? It might just be the next multimillion-dollar discovery.
