The Susan B. Anthony dollar, first introduced in 1979, is a unique piece of American currency. While most of these coins are worth only a dollar today, a select few from 1981 have shocked collectors with valuations reaching as high as $880,000. What makes this story remarkable is that some of these coins may still be sitting in circulation, waiting to be discovered by an unsuspecting owner.
Why 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollars Are Rare
Unlike the first wave of coins minted in 1979, the 1981 edition was not widely distributed to the public. Instead, most were created specifically for collectors and sold in mint sets. Because so few entered everyday circulation, finding one in your change is extremely uncommon. This scarcity is the first factor that makes the 1981 dollar so desirable.
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The Mint Mark That Holds the Key
The true secret behind the coin’s extraordinary value lies in the mint mark. On Susan B. Anthony dollars, the mint mark — a tiny letter — appears just above the shoulder of the portrait. The rarest 1981 versions carry an “S” mark for San Francisco, especially those known as proof coins. Proof coins are struck with superior detail and shine, originally intended for collectors, and when they surface in everyday use, they can be worth a fortune.
Condition Matters More Than You Think
Even if a coin carries the right year and mint mark, its condition plays a major role in its value. Collectors look for coins that are close to perfect — with sharp detail, smooth surfaces, and little to no signs of wear. A well-preserved 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar can leap in value from a few hundred dollars to hundreds of thousands, depending on grading.
The Growing Hunt Among Collectors
News of the $880,000 valuation has sent many people digging through their change jars, wallets, and old coin collections. While chances are slim, experts encourage enthusiasts to keep their eyes open. Stories of rare coins discovered in everyday life continue to inspire both seasoned collectors and curious beginners. Even if the exact $880,000 coin isn’t found, many Susan B. Anthony dollars from 1981 can still hold significant value.
A Hidden Fortune in Your Hands
The lesson is simple: don’t dismiss small coins as worthless. History, rarity, and condition can turn an ordinary piece of change into life-changing wealth. That overlooked 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar sitting in your pocket could be the key to a surprising fortune — if you know the details to watch for.
Frequently Asked Questions ($880,000 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Still in Circulation)
Q1: Where is the mint mark on a Susan B. Anthony dollar?
The mint mark is located just above Susan B. Anthony’s shoulder, near the rim of the coin. It is usually a small letter such as “P,” “D,” or “S.”
Q2: Are all 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollars valuable?
Not all of them. Most are worth only a small premium above face value, but coins with the San Francisco “S” mint mark, especially proof versions in top condition, can reach very high values.
Q3: How do I know if my coin is a proof?
Proof coins have a mirror-like shine, sharper details, and are often found in protective cases. If your coin looks unusually bright and crisp, it may be a proof issue.
Q4: Can I spend a 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar at the store?
Yes, it is still legal tender worth one dollar. However, you should never spend it without checking its value first, as it may be worth much more to collectors.
Q5: Where should I go if I think I have a valuable coin?
The best step is to take it to a professional coin dealer or send it for grading by a trusted service like PCGS or NGC. They can confirm authenticity and give you a reliable estimate of its value.
Final Thought
The 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar is proof that history often hides in the smallest places. A coin many overlook as ordinary pocket change could in fact be a rare treasure worth hundreds of thousands of dollars. Whether tucked away in a coin jar, passed over at a cash register, or sitting unnoticed in a wallet, these coins remind us that incredible value can still exist in everyday life. For collectors and casual holders alike, the lesson is clear: always look twice, because the next life-changing discovery might already be in your hands.