Could a coin from 1979 — one that many people overlook or confuse with a quarter — really be worth $5 million? That’s the buzz surrounding the Susan B. Anthony dollar, specifically from its first year of issue. But how much of this is fact, and how much is myth?
Let’s break down the story behind the 1979 Susan B. Anthony (SBA) dollar, and whether one could actually be worth millions.
What Is the 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar?
The Susan B. Anthony dollar was introduced in 1979 to honor the pioneering women’s rights activist. It was the first U.S. coin to feature a real historical woman, replacing the more traditional Liberty imagery.
Key features:
- Obverse: Susan B. Anthony’s profile
- Reverse: An eagle landing on the moon, adapted from the Apollo 11 mission patch
- Edge: Reeded (like a quarter)
- Diameter: 26.5 mm (slightly larger than a quarter)
- Composition: Copper-nickel clad
Is It Really Worth $5 Million?
In reality, no 1979 SBA dollar has ever sold for $5 million. This valuation is not supported by any reputable auction or coin grading service.
So where does the hype come from?
It likely stems from misunderstandings, clickbait, or confusion with rare mint errors or experimental strikes. That said, certain 1979 SBA dollars can be worth hundreds or even thousands — but only under specific conditions.
Rare and Valuable Versions of the 1979 SBA Dollar
While the standard 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar is worth $1, here are versions that carry premium value:
1. 1979-P “Wide Rim” (Near Date)
- Rarity: Scarcer than the “Narrow Rim” version
- Value: $50–$1,000+ depending on grade
- Key feature: The date is closer to the coin’s rim than usual
2. Proof Strikes (1979-S Type 1 & Type 2)
- Type 1: Filled “S” mint mark — more common
- Type 2: Clear “S” mint mark — rarer
- Value: Type 2 Proofs can sell for $200–$500+
3. Major Mint Errors
- Examples include:
- Off-center strikes
- Double strikes
- Wrong planchet errors (e.g., SBA struck on a quarter blank)
- Value: Some have sold for $1,000–$15,000, depending on rarity and condition
None of these are worth $5 million, though.
Could One Still Be in Circulation?
Technically, yes. The Susan B. Anthony dollar is still legal tender and occasionally shows up in change — often mistaken for a quarter due to its size.
However, valuable varieties (like the Wide Rim or Proof Type 2) are rarely found in circulation. Most high-value versions are already in collector hands or coin rolls.
Final Verdict
| Claim | Reality |
|---|---|
| Worth $5 Million? | ❌ False. No such sale or appraisal exists. |
| Rare versions exist? | ✅ Yes — especially Wide Rim and Proof Type 2 |
| Still in circulation? | ✅ Occasionally, but valuable ones are rare |
| Worth checking your coins? | ✅ Absolutely — especially 1979-P dollars |
How to Spot a Valuable 1979 SBA Dollar
- Check the Date – 1979-P “Wide Rim” is key.
- Examine the Mint Mark – Look for “S” for proof coins.
- Inspect the Edge – Well-struck edges indicate proof quality.
- Look for Errors – Off-centers, double strikes, wrong metal.
- Get It Graded – Send to PCGS or NGC for a professional evaluation.