Your 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar may be valuable if it has a rare variety, pristine condition, or special mint mark. Look for the “S” proof coins from San Francisco, especially the “Type 2” clear “S” mint mark, which is worth more. Coins in uncirculated or proof condition can fetch several dollars to over $100, depending on rarity and grade.
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The 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar coin marked a bold shift in U.S. currency—introducing the first coin to feature a real woman and replacing the bulky Eisenhower dollar with a smaller, modern design. Meant to boost dollar coin circulation, it instead puzzled the public by resembling a quarter, earning mixed reactions. Yet decades later, collectors are rediscovering its charm.
While most 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollars remain common and worth about face value, certain mint marks, pristine conditions, and rare varieties can make them surprisingly valuable. Understanding these subtle differences is the key to spotting hidden worth in this historic coin.
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1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Value
As of November 2025, a 1979 Susan B Anthony dollar coin in circulated condition is valued between $1.05 and $1.35. However, in uncirculated, pristine condition, the coin could fetch up to $1,450, according to the NGC Price Guide.
The 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar is not particularly rare or valuable. In circulated condition, these coins typically sell for around face value or slightly more, depending on the condition. However, there are some key dates and varieties that can command higher prices among collectors. For example, the 1979-P "Near Date" variety is more valuable than the regular 1979-P coin.
What Are 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Coins?
The 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar coin is a unique U.S. coin that features the likeness of Susan B. Anthony, a prominent women's rights advocate, making it the first U.S. coin to depict a non-fictional woman. This dollar coin replaced the larger Eisenhower Dollar, with the goal of creating a more practical and cost-effective alternative. The decision was partially driven by a shortage of silver dollars, especially in regions with a lot of gambling.
Designed by Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint, Frank Gasparro, the obverse of the coin showcases Susan B. Anthony's portrait, while the reverse displays an eagle above a rising sun.
This coin quickly gained popularity among collectors and enthusiasts due to its historical significance, distinctive design, and limited mintage period (1979-1981 and 1999). The 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar coin stands as a symbol of progress in American history and continues to captivate numismatists who appreciate its unique place in U.S. coinage.
How to Check if Your 1979 Dollar Coins Are Valuable
Rarity is often the most important factor to consider when estimating the value of your coins. To determine the rarity and potential value of your 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar coin, it's essential to carefully examine the coin for specific factors that can significantly influence its worth. Here are some of the main things to look for in 1979 dollar coins:
Apparent Condition
The condition of the coin plays a crucial role in determining its value. Coins in excellent, uncirculated condition with minimal signs of wear or damage are generally more desirable to collectors and may command higher prices.
Date
Although all Susan B. Anthony dollar coins are relatively modern, the specific year of issue can impact their rarity. Coins from 1981 and 1999 tend to be scarcer and may fetch a premium amount.
Mint Marks
The U.S. Mint produced these coins at three different facilities: Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. You can identify the mint mark by locating a small letter on the obverse, to the right of Anthony's portrait. Common 1979 dollar coins with a "D" mint mark, indicating the Denver Mint, are commonly less sought after than others.
Mint Errors
Occasionally, coins with mint errors can have increased collectible value. Look for anomalies in the design, double strikes, or other irregularities that make your coin stand out from the rest. By carefully inspecting your 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar coin for these factors, you can better assess its rarity and potential value in the numismatic market.
What Are 1979 Dollar Coins Usually Worth?
A vast majority of 1979 dollar coins are worth a few dollars at max. However, rare coins can sell for thousands of dollars. That's why it's a good idea to make sure you know the value of your 1979-dollar coins before you sell them. If you think you see a mint mark that isn't from damage to the coin, you may want to have it professionally graded.
The most valuable 1979 dollar coins are often those with rare mint errors. For example, the highest-valued 1979 dollar coins aren't really Susan B. Anthony dollar coins at all. A coin stamped entirely incorrectly using the Sacagawea dollar dies on the planchet (metal disk) of the 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar coin sold for over $16,400.
How to Buy and Sell 1979 Dollar Coins and Other Coins
Many of the most reputable coin and precious metals platforms don't buy or sell 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar coins because of their usually low value. However, you can buy some on APMEX or JM Bullion, two of the most popular online coin dealers. eBay is an option, but some sellers could be unreliable.
Here are some of the best precious metals and coin IRAs right now: Priority Gold and American Hartford Gold. They both offer direct delivery and IRA purchases.
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Are 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Coins Worth Selling?
Most 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar coins are likely not worth selling unless you have a rare one or a large number of coins. Remember to look out for mint marks because they are often the biggest drivers of value in more recent common coins like the 1979 dollar.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my 1979 Susan B Anthony coin is valuable?
What is the difference between type 1 and type 2 1979 Susan B Anthony?
The difference between a Type 1 and Type 2 Susan B. Anthony dollar lies in the mint mark style on the proof coins from 1979 and 1981, specifically those minted at the San Francisco (S) Mint.
What is the difference between a 1979 Susan B Anthony wide rim and narrow rim?
About Henry Stater
Henry is an expert in all things crypto. He stays up to date with all the latest coins, platforms and technologies in the field. He has particular expertise in the burgeoning decentralized finance ecosystem and loves trying out all the new platforms. He also always follows major events in other financial markets and geopolitics as a whole, especially when an event’s effects ripple through the crypto market.