The Susan B. Anthony dollar,

first minted in 1979, was a notable departure from traditional U.S. coinage with its distinct design and aim to honor the pioneering suffragist. Though it was produced for only a short period, there are a few rare varieties and errors that make some of these coins highly collectible. If you’re a coin enthusiast or just curious about the potential rarity of your Susan B. Anthony dollar, here’s what you need to know.

Identifying a Rare Susan B. Anthony Coin

1. Mint Marks and Scarcity:
   • The mint mark, which indicates the facility where the coin was produced, is an essential feature to check. You can find this mark on the front (or obverse) of the coin, to the right of Susan B. Anthony’s portrait. The major minting facilities were Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S).
   • Coins from 1981 and 1999 are particularly noteworthy. The 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollars are scarce because they were minted primarily for collectors and not released into general circulation. The 1999 coins are rarer due to the relatively low production numbers in that year and the increased demand among collectors.
2. Error Coins:
   • Susan B. Anthony dollars are known for a variety of minting errors, which can significantly increase a coin’s value. Common errors include double strikes, off-center strikes, and incorrect edge lettering. An example of a notable error is the 1981-P (Philadelphia mint) coin with the “near-date” or “far-date” variety, where the date on the coin appears closer or farther from Anthony’s portrait due to a minting error.
3. No Silver Content:
   • It’s important to note that none of the Susan B. Anthony dollars contain silver. They were made of a copper-nickel clad composition, which distinguishes them from other collectible coins that might be made of silver. This fact is crucial for evaluating the coin’s authenticity and value, as silver content often contributes to a coin’s rarity and value in other types of currency.
4. Condition Matters:
   • The condition of your coin plays a vital role in determining its rarity and value. Coins in mint state (MS) or with high grades (such as MS65 or higher) are generally more valuable. Coins that are in excellent condition with minimal wear and clear details are more sought after by collectors.

How to Verify Your Coin’s Rarity

To confirm the rarity and potential value of your Susan B. Anthony dollar, consider the following steps:

1. Consult a Coin Guide: Utilize resources such as coin guides, catalogs, and reputable coin-collecting websites like the U.S. Coins Guide to compare your coin with known varieties and errors.
2. Professional Grading: Have your coin graded by a professional numismatic service. Grading services like the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) or the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) can provide an expert evaluation of the coin’s condition and authenticity.
3. Coin Collecting Forums: Engage with online coin collecting communities and forums where experienced collectors and dealers can offer insights and opinions about your coin.

Conclusion

Identifying a rare Susan B. Anthony coin involves examining mint marks, understanding the scarcity of certain years, recognizing minting errors, and knowing that these coins do not contain silver. By following these guidelines and seeking professional advice, you can determine if you have a valuable piece of numismatic history. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just beginning your journey, appreciating the nuances of Susan B. Anthony dollars can add a new dimension to your coin collection.