A Dollar That Could Make You Rich
Imagine finding a dollar coin in your pocket worth $880,000! The 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar, a small coin often mistaken for a quarter, has some rare versions that collectors are crazy about. One such coin, with a special minting error, sold for a jaw-dropping $880,000 at an auction in 2025. Even better, these coins might still be hiding in your change. Let’s dive into what makes this coin so special and how you can spot one.
The Story of the Susan B. Anthony Dollar
The Susan B. Anthony dollar came out in 1979, the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman, the famous women’s rights leader. It was made to replace the bigger Eisenhower dollar but looked too much like a quarter, so people didn’t use it much. By 1981, the U.S. Mint stopped making them for regular use, producing only a few for collectors. This makes some 1981 coins super rare, especially those with unique errors or marks.
What Makes the 1981 Coin So Valuable?
The $880,000 coin was a 1981-S (San Francisco mint) proof coin with a rare “No S” mint mark error, meaning the “S” mark was missing. Only a handful of these exist, and in perfect condition (graded PR70 Deep Cameo), they’re worth a fortune. Other 1981 coins, like those with a “Clear S” mint mark, can also fetch high prices, from $500 to $1,500, depending on condition. Even regular 1981 coins in great shape can be worth $10 to $100.
How to Spot a Valuable Coin
You don’t need to be a coin expert to find a rare 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar. Here’s what to check:
- Look at the date: Make sure it’s 1981.
- Check the mint mark: Find the small letter (P, D, or S) to the left of Susan B. Anthony’s face. No “S” on a San Francisco coin is a big win.
- Inspect the “S” mark: A sharp, clear “S” (Type 2) is rarer than a blurry “S” (Type 1). Use a magnifying glass.
- Check the finish: Proof coins are shiny with frosted details, often sold in special mint sets.
- Look for errors: Doubled letters or off-center designs can add value.
- Keep it clean: Don’t clean coins, as it lowers their worth.
These tips can help you spot a treasure in your change or old coin jars.
Where to Find These Coins
Though 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollars were mostly made for collectors, some slipped into circulation. Check these places:
| Where to Look | Details |
|---|---|
| Pocket Change | Look in your daily change or coin jars |
| Bank Coin Rolls | Ask banks for dollar coin rolls |
| Coin Shops | Check ungraded lots for hidden gems |
| Estate Sales | Look for old coin collections |
| Mint Sets | Buy 1981 proof sets from collectors |
If you find a promising coin, get it checked by a coin shop or grading services like PCGS or NGC to confirm its value.
Start Your Coin Hunt Today
The chance to find an $880,000 coin is exciting! Stories of people finding rare coins in cash registers or old jars, like one in Pennsylvania that sold for a fortune, keep the hunt alive. Grab a magnifying glass, check your change, and maybe visit a coin shop. Your next dollar could be worth way more than you think. Join the fun and start searching for this hidden treasure.