The Susan B. Anthony coin 1979 is one of the most fascinating pieces in U.S. numismatic history. Minted in an attempt to introduce a smaller and more convenient dollar coin, it became widely known due to its design, errors, variations, and historical significance.
Although it was not well received by the public, the coin remains popular among collectors. Whether you are interested in its value, rare varieties, or historical importance, this guide will provide all the necessary information.
What is Susan B. Anthony Coin 1979
The Susan B. Anthony dollar was the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman, honoring the famous suffragist Susan B. Anthony. She was key in advocating for women’s voting rights and equal treatment under the law.
The U.S. Mint introduced this coin in 1979 to replace the large and bulky Eisenhower dollar. However, the new small-sized dollar was often confused with the quarter, leading to its failure in everyday transactions.
Despite its short circulation, the coin holds significant value for collectors and remains a notable part of U.S. history.
The History Behind the Susan B. Anthony Dollar
The Susan B. Anthony coin 1979 was born out of a need for a more practical and widely used dollar coin. In the 1970s, Congress pushed for a dollar coin that would be easier to carry and use in vending machines, public transportation, and everyday transactions.
- The Eisenhower dollar (minted from 1971-1978) was too large and heavy, discouraging people from carrying it.
- The Treasury and the U.S. Mint believed that a smaller dollar coin could increase circulation and reduce the cost of printing paper bills.
- Congress passed the Susan B. Anthony Dollar Coin Act of 1978, producing the first small-sized dollar coin in 1979.
However, the public didn’t embrace the coin as expected. Due to its size and color, it was often mistaken for a quarter, making people hesitant to use it.
Design and Features of the Susan B. Anthony Coin 1979
Frank Gasparro, the Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint, designed the Susan B. Anthony coin in 1979.
Obverse (Front) Design
- A portrait of Susan B. Anthony facing right.
- “LIBERTY” is inscribed at the top.
- The date (1979) is at the bottom.
- 13 stars surround the portrait, representing the original U.S. colonies.
- The phrase “IN GOD WE TRUST” is to the right of the picture.
Reverse (Back) Design
- An American eagle landing on the moon, inspired by the Apollo 11 mission.
- The eagle is holding an olive branch, symbolizing peace.
- The inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” at the top.
- The words “ONE DOLLAR” at the bottom.
- The motto is “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” meaning “Out of many, one.”
Physical Characteristics
- Composition: 91.67% copper, 8.33% nickel (same as the quarter).
- Weight: 8.1 grams.
- Diameter: 26.5 mm.
- Edge: Reeded.
Despite its unique design, the coin was widely criticized for its similarity in size to the quarter, leading to confusion and rejection.
Why the Susan B. Anthony Coin 1979 Was Discontinued
The Susan B. Anthony dollar was discontinued after 1981 due to poor public reception. The main reasons were:
- Confusion with the quarter: Many people found distinguishing between the two coins hard, leading to frustration.
- Lack of acceptance: Banks and businesses were slow to adopt the new coin, and many vending machines were not programmed to accept it.
- Preference for paper dollars: The public continued using one-dollar bills, making the coin unnecessary.
After a short return in 1999 due to increased demand for dollar coins, the series was permanently discontinued in 2000 in favor of the Sacagawea dollar.
Mint Marks and Variations of the 1979 Susan B. Anthony Coin
The Susan B. Anthony coin 1979 was minted at three locations across the United States: Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. Each mint produced coins with slight differences, making them unique to collectors.
- Philadelphia Mint (P Mint): The 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar was the first U.S. coin to include a “P” mint mark, which indicated it was struck in Philadelphia. This was a historic change since Philadelphia-produced coins had no mint mark.
- Denver Mint (D Mint): The Denver Mint struck Susan B. Anthony dollars primarily for general circulation. The coins here feature a small “D” mint mark below Susan B. Anthony’s portrait.
- San Francisco Mint (S Mint): The San Francisco Mint struck proof and circulation coins. The proof versions, explicitly made for collectors, were struck with extra care to ensure a sharper design and mirror-like surfaces. The “S” mint mark identifies these coins.
Among these, the San Francisco-proof coins are often the most desirable, as they are struck in smaller quantities and exhibit superior detail compared to their circulation counterparts.
1979-P Wide Rim vs. Narrow Rim: What’s the Difference?
One of the most discussed varieties of the Susan B. Anthony Coin 1979 is the difference between the Wide Rim and Narrow Rim versions minted in Philadelphia. The variation is subtle but significantly affects the coin’s rarity and value.
Narrow Rim Variety (Common Coin)
- On the Narrow Rim version, the date “1979” is far from the coin’s outer edge, creating a thin border between the numerals and the rim.
- This is the most commonly found version, making it less valuable.
- Since most of the 1979-P coins were struck with this design, it does not command a high premium.
Wide Rim Variety (Rare and Valuable Coin)
- The Wide Rim (also called the “Near Date” variety) has the date closer to the rim, making the border appear thicker.
- This design was struck in much smaller numbers, making it rarer than the Narrow Rim version.
- Collectors seek out the Wide Rim variety; high-grade examples can sell for hundreds of dollars.
To differentiate between the two, examine the spacing between the date and the rim closely. The Wide Rim version is significantly rarer and more valuable in numismatic markets.
Errors and Rare Varieties in the 1979 Susan B. Anthony Coin
Like many U.S. coins, the Susan B. Anthony coin 1979 has several error varieties that make some pieces far more desirable to collectors. These minting mistakes add uniqueness and value.
Notable Errors Found in 1979 Susan B. Anthony Coins
- Off-Center Strikes: These coins were miscued, causing part of the design to be missing or misaligned—the further off-center, the higher the value.
- Clipped Planchets: These coins have a curved or straight cut along the edge, caused by errors in the blank-cutting process.
- Double Die Obverse (DDO): A misalignment during the striking process causes a doubling effect on the inscriptions or Susan B. Anthony’s portrait.
- Struck-Through Errors: Coins with foreign objects (such as grease or debris) on the die, leaving a noticeable mark on the final coin.
Errors can significantly increase a coin’s value, especially if they are well-documented and rare. Collectors seek out these mistakes, making error coins more desirable in auctions.
Value of the 1979 Susan B. Anthony Coin
The value of the 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar depends on several factors, including condition, rarity, and mint mark. While circulated versions are common and inexpensive, certain varieties command high prices.
General Price Ranges for 1979 Susan B. Anthony Coins
- Common Circulated Coins: Typically sell for $1.25 – $3.
- Uncirculated Coins (MS60 – MS64): Generally worth $5 – $15.
- 1979-P Wide Rim Variety: Can sell for $50 – $500, depending on condition.
- Proof Coins from the San Francisco Mint: Range from $10 – $50, with profound cameo proofs being more valuable.
Grading and Authentication
Coins graded by professional services like PCGS and NGC are worth more as their condition is verified. A high-grade Wide Rim variety (MS67 or MS68) can fetch hundreds or thousands of dollars at auctions.
How to Identify a Rare 1979 Susan B. Anthony Coin
If you’re wondering whether your Susan B. Anthony dollar is rare or valuable, check for these characteristics:
- Mint Mark Location: Find proof of the coins’ “S” mint mark.
- Wide Rim Variety: Check if the date is close to the rim—this version is significantly more valuable.
- Error Coins: Examine your coin for off-center strikes, doubled dies, or other mistakes.
- High-Grade Condition: Coins graded MS65 or higher by PCGS or NGC carry a premium.
A magnifying glass or coin loupe can help spot small details and determine whether a coin is rare.
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How to Buy and Sell 1979 Susan B. Anthony Coins
If you want to buy, sell, or trade Susan B. Anthony dollars, consider these options:
- Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay, Heritage Auctions, and GreatCollections offer a variety of listings.
- Local Coin Shops: Many coin dealers buy and sell Susan B. Anthony coins.
- Coin Shows and Expos: These events are great places to find rare coins and meet expert collectors.
- Grading Services (PCGS, NGC): Grading your coin before selling can increase its value and credibility.
Make sure to verify authenticity and research current market prices before purchasing.
Where to Get Your 1979 Susan B. Anthony Coin Graded
The Susan B. Anthony coin 1979 is likely to increase in value, especially for rare varieties like the Wide Rim and high-grade error coins.
Factors That Could Drive Up Prices:
- Growing interest in numismatics.
- Decrease in available high-grade coins.
- Increased demand for error coins and rare varieties.
While common coins may not see a huge price jump, well-preserved MS67+ graded coins, errors, and proofs are expected to be appreciated.
How to Store and Preserve Your Susan B. Anthony Coins
Despite its short-lived circulation, the Susan B. Anthony coin 1979 holds historical and numismatic significance.
Reasons to Collect This Coin:
- First U.S. coin featuring a real woman.
- Potential for value appreciation, especially in rare varieties.
- It is a unique piece of American coinage history.
If you’re a coin collector, the 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar is a must-have, especially if you can find the rare Wide Rim or error varieties.
Conclusion
The 1979 Susan B. Anthony coin is a unique piece of history many people love collecting. Even though it was only made briefly, it is essential because it was the first U.S. coin to show a real woman. Some versions of this coin, like the Wide Rim variety and error coins, are rare and can be worth much money. If you have one of these coins, check if it is valuable!
Collecting Susan B. Anthony coins can be fun and a great way to learn about money and history. Whether you are just starting or already love coins, this one is worth watching. If you find a shiny, rare, or unique version, you could have something valuable in your hands. So, if you ever see a 1979 Susan B. Anthony coin, don’t just spend it—take a closer look!
FAQs
Q: What makes the 1979 Susan B. Anthony coin special?
A: It was the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman, Susan B. Anthony and was only minted for a few years.
Q: How can I tell if my 1979 Susan B. Anthony coin is valuable?
A: Look for the Wide Rim variety, error coins, or proof versions, as these are rarer and worth more.
Q: What is the difference between the Wide Rim and Narrow Rim 1979-P coin?
A: The Wide Rim version has the date closer to the edge, making it thicker, while the Narrow Rim version has more space between the date and rim.
Q: How much is a 1979 Susan B. Anthony coin worth today?
A: Common circulated coins are worth $1.25 – $3, while rare Wide Rim or error coins can sell for $50 – $500 or more.
Q: Where can I sell my 1979 Susan B. Anthony coin?
A: You can sell it on eBay, coin shops, auction websites, or numismatic shows. Grading it first can help you get a better price.
Q: What mint marks are found on the 1979 Susan B. Anthony coin?
A: The coins were made in Philadelphia (P), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S). The “S” mint mark is found on proof coins.
Q: Are all 1979 Susan B. Anthony coins rare?
A: No, most are common, but the Wide Rim variety, proof coins, and specific mint errors are much rarer and more valuable.
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