In an extraordinary twist of fate, a woman from Oregon found a rare 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar in her wallet, which was later sold at a sealed-bid auction for an astonishing $11.9 million. This incredible discovery has sparked renewed curiosity about the hidden value of coins still in everyday circulation.
The Discovery
The woman, who has chosen to remain anonymous, came across the coin during a routine wallet cleanout. Noticing its unusual luster and weight, she reached out to a numismatist for evaluation. The expert confirmed that the coin was a 1979-P Susan B. Anthony dollar struck on a 90% silver planchet, identifying it as a significant minting error.
This error likely occurred when leftover silver blanks from the previous Eisenhower dollar series were mistakenly used for striking Susan B. Anthony dollars.
Why This Coin Is So Valuable
Several unique characteristics contribute to the extraordinary value of this coin:
Minting Error: It was mistakenly struck on a 90% silver planchet instead of the standard copper-nickel composition.
First-Year Issue: The coin is dated 1979, marking the inaugural year of the Susan B. Anthony dollar series.
High Grade: The coin was professionally graded MS-68, indicating it is in near-perfect condition.
Unique Status: This is currently the only known example of this particular minting error.
Potential for More Discoveries
Coin experts believe that other rare Susan B. Anthony dollars may still be circulating. Because of their similarity in size to quarters and general lack of popularity, these coins often go unnoticed. Valuable versions could still be hiding in vending machines, bank rolls, coin jars, and even thrift store purchases.
Key Features to Identify Valuable Susan B. Anthony Dollars
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Date | 1979 (especially with a “P” mint mark) |
| Composition | 90% silver planchet instead of standard copper-nickel |
| Mint Mark | “P” for Philadelphia; check for anomalies |
| Condition | High-grade coins (MS-65 and above) are significantly more valuable |
| Edge | Solid silver edge, lacking the typical copper-colored stripe |
The Takeaway
The unexpected discovery of a $11.9 million Susan B. Anthony dollar is a powerful reminder of the potential treasures hidden in your loose change. With more rare coins possibly still out there, a simple glance at your spare change could lead to a life-changing find.
FAQs
How can I determine if my Susan B. Anthony dollar is valuable?
Examine your coin for a 1979 date with a “P” mint mark, a silver tone, and a solid edge without the usual copper stripe. These are signs of a potentially rare and valuable coin.
Where can I have my coin evaluated?
You can consult a reputable coin dealer or submit your coin to a professional grading service for authentication and a formal appraisal.
Are there other valuable Susan B. Anthony dollars?
Yes, certain minting errors and high-grade coins within the Susan B. Anthony dollar series can be worth substantial amounts, depending on rarity and condition.