The Susan B. Anthony dollar might be small in size, but it carries a big story—one that blends American history, changing currency designs, and a growing collector market. When these coins first hit circulation in 1979, many Americans were surprised by their look and feel. They were roughly the size of a quarter, featured a bold portrait of women’s rights champion Susan B. Anthony, and marked a rare moment in U.S. history when a real woman—not a symbolic figure—appeared on everyday currency.
Over time, these coins have gone from being misunderstood pocket change to prized collectibles. And in 2025, certain rare varieties from 1979 and 1980 have climbed in value, with some examples selling for as much as $6,000.
Have you ever wondered why some coins skyrocket in price while others stay ordinary? With the Susan B. Anthony dollar, it comes down to a mix of rarity, condition, and the occasional minting mistake that fascinates collectors.
Why Certain SBA Dollars Are Worth So Much
Even though millions of Susan B. Anthony dollars were produced, only a small fraction stand out. Collectors look for a few key factors:
Mint Errors
Mistakes during production—like doubled dies, off-center strikes, or missing details—can turn an everyday coin into a treasure. These errors are like printing mistakes on baseball cards: rare, unexpected, and often extremely valuable.
Proof Coins
Proof versions minted in places like Philadelphia or Denver were created with extra care. Their mirror-like surfaces and sharp details make them favorites among serious collectors.
Low Mintage Varieties
Some 1980 mint sets included smaller batches of Susan B. Anthony dollars. Low supply paired with rising demand often leads to higher prices.
Condition
As with most collectibles, condition is everything. A coin graded MS65 or higher, showing no wear and strong original luster, can be worth dramatically more than one that’s been circulated for decades.
Key Years Collectors Watch Closely
1979-P and 1979-D
These first-year coins are already historic, but certain die varieties make a few of them especially desirable. Spotting one of these unique varieties is a little like finding a rare stamp in a book of common ones.
1980-P and 1980-D
Coins from this year—especially uncirculated and proof versions—have seen rising demand. Some of these pieces came from smaller mint runs, giving them an added layer of rarity.
Tips for Anyone Holding These Coins
Examine the Condition
Even subtle scratches can pull down the value. Collectors care about every detail.
Avoid Cleaning
It might be tempting to brighten an old coin, but cleaning actually hurts value. A natural, untouched surface is far more appealing to buyers and grading experts.
Get Professional Grading
If you believe you have a rare or high-quality example, having it graded by PCGS or NGC can confirm its authenticity and establish a much higher market value.
The Bottom Line
The 1979 and 1980 Susan B. Anthony dollars aren’t just pieces of metal—they’re snapshots of American history, minted at a moment when the United States honored a groundbreaking advocate for equality. Today, these coins have become sought-after collectibles, with the rarest examples fetching up to $6,000. If you happen to find one tucked away in pocket change or a family collection, it might be worth taking a closer look.
