Susan B. Anthony (SBA) dollars are 11-sided copper-nickel coins minted from 1979-1981 and 1999, honoring the women's suffrage leader. They're America's first small-size dollar coins.
Many collectors overlook these coins initially. But their unique history and hidden varieties make them worth closer examination.
How Much Is a SBA Coin Worth?
Value depends on three key factors: condition, mint marks, and errors.
Most circulated SBA dollars are worth $1.25-$5. Uncirculated examples range from $5-$125, with rare errors reaching $1,500+ at auctions.
Key Value Determinants (1979-1999)
| Factor | Common Value Range | Premium Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Circulation Wear | Face value - $3 | 1979-S Proof: $45 |
| Mint Marks | +50% - 300% | 1981-P: $25+ |
| Error Types | 5x - 1500x face | 1979 "Wide Rim": $2,000 |
The 1981 coins only exist in collector sets - making them 10x rarer than 1979 issues.
Do They Still Make Susan B. Anthony Coins?
The U.S. Mint stopped regular SBA production in 1981 but did a final 1999 run.
No new SBA dollars have been minted since 1999. The 1999 issues were transitional coins before the Sacagawea dollar's 2000 debut.
The 1999 coins used leftover 1981 blanks. I've handled several with visible planchet imperfections from long-term storage.
How Much Is a 1979 S SBA Dollar Coin Worth?
The San Francisco mint produced two 1979 versions: proof and circulation strikes.
1979-S proof coins1 typically sell for $15-$45. Circulation strikes (no "S" mint mark) range from $1-$25 based on condition.
1979-S Market Data (PCGS)
- PR69DCAM (Top Grade): $300+
- PR65: $18
- AU58 (Circulated): $7
A client once brought me a 1979-S with double-struck edge lettering - it sold for $850 at Heritage Auctions.
Why Is the Susan B. Anthony 1979 Coin Rare?
The 1979 isn't inherently rare, but specific varieties command premiums.
Only the 1979 "Wide Rim" Philadelphia issue (no mint mark) is truly rare, with 15:1 ratio against common "Narrow Rim" versions.
Mint workers adjusted the collar die mid-production to prevent metal flow issues. I use a 10x loupe to check rim width differences during appraisals.
What Is the Error on the 1979 SBA Dollar?
The most valuable error is the "Blob Mint Mark2" variety.
Some 1979 Philadelphia coins show a blob-like remnant where the "P" mint mark should be. These errors can fetch $750+ in MS65 condition.
Other notable errors:
- Off-center strikes (5-15% misalignment): $50-$175
- Clipped planchets: $125-$400
- Double dies: $300-$1,200
How Do I Know If My 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Is Worth Anything?
Follow this 4-step authentication process I use with clients.
Check for:
1) Mint mark position
2) Rim width
3) Surface luster
4) Edge lettering clarity.
Use a magnifier and compare to certified examples.
Quick Value Assessment Guide
| Condition | Action |
|---|---|
| Shiny, no scratches | Get NGC/PCGS certified |
| Visible wear | Check for key varieties |
| Unusual markings | Consult error guides |
I once found a 1979-P Wide Rim3 in a $1 junk bin - it graded MS67 and sold for $1,250.
How Much Is a 1980 SBA Dollar Coin Worth?
1980 issues are more valuable than 1979 due to lower mintage.
Uncirculated 1980-P dollars sell for $8-$35. The 1980-D averages $5-$25. Proofs (1980-S) reach $30-$100+ in PR70 condition.
The 1980-D had quality control issues. Look for "railroad rim" specimens where the edge reeding appears flattened - these trade at 20% premiums.
How Much Is a 2000 Sacagawea Dollar Worth?
Most 2000 "Cheerios" dollars are ordinary, but one variety is exceptional.
Standard 2000 Sacagawea coins are worth $1-$5. The rare "Cheerios Dollar4" with detailed tail feathers sells for $2,500-$10,000.
These were special strikes included in cereal boxes. I authenticate them using USB microscopes to examine feather details.
Why Is a 2000 Sacagawea Coin So Valuable?
The value comes from a unique reverse die variety.
Only 5,500 "Cheerios Dollars" show enhanced eagle tail feathers. This variety wasn't repeated in later production runs.
In 2018, I helped a collector verify a Cheerios Dollar found in circulation. It later auctioned for $8,250.
Custom Commemorative Coins for Collectors & Educators
At INIMAKER, we've produced over 2 million educational coins since 2015.
Our custom SBA-style coins5 feature:
1) Dual metal plating
2) Diamond-cut edges
3) Optional RFID authentication
4) Historical fact engraving.
Educational Coin Specifications
| Feature | Standard Option | Premium Upgrade |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Zinc Alloy | Brass Core |
| Plating | 2.5µm Ni/Ag | 5µm 18K Gold |
| Edge Treatment | Reeded | Serial Numbered |
| Protection | PVC Flip | Anti-Tarnish Capsule |
Conclusion
SBA coins bridge numismatics and civil rights history. While most carry modest premiums, key dates and errors offer serious investment potential. Always verify mint marks and surface details.
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Discover the current market value of 1979-S proof coins, a key collectible for numismatists. ↩
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Learn about the Blob Mint Mark error, a rare and valuable variety that could enhance your coin collection. ↩
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Discover the significance and market value of the rare 1979-P Wide Rim coin, which can fetch impressive prices. ↩
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Learn about the unique features of the Cheerios Dollar and why it commands such high prices in the collector's market. ↩
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Explore options for custom SBA-style coins that enhance your collection with unique features and educational value. ↩
