The Susan B. Anthony dollar, a small coin with a big story, is a treasure that coin collectors chase after. Released in 1979 to honor the women’s rights pioneer, it was meant to replace the bulky Eisenhower dollar. But by 1981, it was barely made, making it tough to find today. Some are worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Why did this coin vanish so fast? Let’s dive into its history, what makes it special, and how you can spot one.
A Coin with a Purpose
In 1979, the U.S. Mint wanted a smaller dollar coin that was easier to carry than the old ones. They chose Susan B. Anthony, a hero who fought for women’s right to vote. The coin was historic, the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman. It had her portrait on one side and an eagle landing on the moon on the other. But people didn’t like it much. It looked too much like a quarter, causing confusion at stores and vending machines. By 1981, the Mint nearly stopped making them, except for a small batch for collectors.
Why So Few Were Made
The 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar is rare because the Mint made far fewer than in 1979 or 1980. Most were struck for special collector sets, not for everyday use. The public didn’t embrace the coin, so the Mint cut production. Only about 9.7 million were made across three mints: Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. Compare that to the 757 million pennies made in 1981, and you see why it’s scarce. Some 1981 coins, especially those in perfect condition, can sell for $50 to $1,000 or more at auctions.
Here’s a quick look at the 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar production numbers:
| Mint Location | Number Minted | Key Mark |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | 3,000,000 | P |
| Denver | 3,250,000 | D |
| San Francisco | 3,492,000 | S |
These low numbers make the coin a hot find for collectors.
How to Spot a Valuable One
To find a 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar, check your old coin stashes or ask family for inherited collections. Look for the mint mark near Susan’s shoulder. A “P,” “D,” or “S” tells you where it was made. The condition is everything. Coins graded “Mint State” (MS) 65 or higher by services like PCGS or NGC are worth the most. Watch for errors too, like off-center strikes or doubled letters, which can jack up the value. A magnifying glass helps spot these details. If you think you’ve got one, take it to a coin shop for a professional check.
Where They Hide Today
These coins often turn up in unexpected places. Some folks find them in old piggy banks, tucked in drawers, or even mixed in with quarters at flea markets. Online, collectors trade them on sites like eBay, but fakes are out there, so buy from trusted sellers. Coin shows are another great spot to hunt. Stories pop up online about people finding these in change or at estate sales, then selling them for a nice profit. One collector in Ohio found a 1981-S in a proof set and sold it for $500.
Tips for Your Coin Hunt
- Visit local coin shops to learn from experts.
- Join online forums like CoinTalk to share finds.
- Use apps like PCGS CoinFacts to check values.
- Store coins in protective holders to keep them safe.
- Attend coin shows to see rare coins up close.
Why It’s Worth the Search
The Susan B. Anthony dollar isn’t just a coin; it’s a piece of history tied to women’s rights and a unique time in U.S. minting. Its rarity, especially the 1981 version, makes it a thrilling find. With coin collecting booming, values are creeping up. Even if you don’t find a million-dollar coin, the hunt is exciting and could turn a single dollar into a big payout. So, check your change, you might just hold a small fortune in your hand.