1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar: History, Value, and Numismatic Potential
The 1979 Susan B. Anthony (SBA) dollar is a distinctive chapter in U.S. coinage history. As the first circulating U.S. dollar to feature a real woman—suffragist Susan B. Anthony—it marked a milestone in recognizing women’s contributions on national currency.
While not being popular at its time, current numismatic 1979 Susan B Anthony value seriously exceeds the coin’s face. Let’s learn how!
Dive into History of Coinage
The SBA dollar was introduced to replace the larger Eisenhower dollar with a smaller, lighter coin that could circulate more easily alongside paper bills. Measuring 26.5 mm and weighing 8.1 grams, it was struck in a copper–nickel clad composition for durability.
However, its similarity in size and color to the quarter caused confusion. Many people avoided using it, and vending machines often rejected it. Despite lukewarm public reception, the coin became symbolically significant, with President Jimmy Carter calling it “a small coin with a big message” in recognition of ongoing equality efforts.
From Launch to Legacy: The Minting Timeline
The SBA dollar was minted for only a short span—1979 through 1981—and then briefly revived in 1999 to address a temporary shortage of dollar coins before the introduction of the Sacagawea dollar in 2000.
Obverse Design: Created by Frank Gasparro, Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint, the obverse features a sharp, realistic portrait of Susan B. Anthony surrounded by 13 stars, the word LIBERTY, and the date.
Reverse Design: Borrowed directly from the Eisenhower dollar, the reverse depicts the Apollo 11 mission insignia—an eagle landing on the moon, olive branch in talon, symbolizing peace through achievement.
Edge: Reeded, giving it a distinct tactile feel for coin handlers.
The SBA dollar was struck at three primary mints: Philadelphia (P), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S). In 1979 alone, the Mint produced over 757 million coins, a testament to the high expectations placed on the new dollar.
Why It Stands Out in U.S. Coinage
Three elements make the 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar a standout:
First Real Woman on U.S. Currency – Breaking tradition, this coin honored a prominent suffragist rather than a mythological or allegorical figure.
Transitional Design Choice – It bridged the gap between the Eisenhower and Sacagawea dollars, both in size and in historical themes.
Collectible Varieties – From the scarce “Wide Rim” Philadelphia issues to proof coins with distinct mintmark styles, its varieties remain of interest to modern collectors.
Even though the SBA dollar didn’t achieve mainstream popularity in daily transactions, its place in American numismatic history is secure—both as a milestone in gender representation and as a case study in coin design challenges.
General Value Range
For the majority of circulated 1979 SBA dollars, values remain modest:
Condition / Type | Typical Value Range | Notes |
Circulated (all mints) | $1.00 – $3.00 | Common in pocket change or old bank rolls |
Uncirculated (MS60–MS65) | $5 – $15 | Attractive luster, no wear |
High-Grade Mint State (MS67+) | $150 – $300+ | Scarce; requires pristine surfaces |
1979-P Wide Rim (AU–MS) | $25 – $1,000+ | Scarcer variety; premium in top grades |
1979-S Proof (Type 1) | $8 – $20 | Common proof issue |
1979-S Proof (Type 2 “Clear S”) | $50 – $150 | Sharper mintmark; desirable among proof collectors |
Key Varieties to Look For
1979-P Wide Rim (Near Date)
Easily distinguished by the date being closer to the rim than on standard issues.
Scarcer than the Narrow Rim and sought after in all grades, especially uncirculated.
1979-S Proof – Type 1 vs. Type 2 (“Clear S”)
Type 1: Frosted “S” mintmark with indistinct ends; common.
Type 2: Sharply defined “S” mintmark; more collectible and worth several times more than Type 1 in the same condition.
High-Grade Mint State Examples
Even regular strikes from Philadelphia or Denver can command strong premiums if graded MS67 or higher by PCGS or NGC.
Why Collectors Seek It
Despite its lukewarm public reception in circulation, the 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar has several traits that appeal to collectors:
Historical First – The debut of a real woman on circulating U.S. coinage.
Short Production Span – Only minted for regular use for three years, plus the 1999 revival.
Variety Appeal – Distinct differences in rims, mintmarks, and finishes provide plenty of huntable targets for variety specialists.
Investment Outlook
While common examples may never be worth much beyond face value, certain SBA dollars—particularly the Wide Rim and Clear S proofs—show steady demand and gradual price appreciation. Collectors often recommend setting aside high-grade coins from original mint sets or proof sets, as they are far scarcer in flawless condition than their mintage figures suggest.
Long-Term Collecting Potential
The SBA dollar holds several advantages that position it well for long-term numismatic interest:
Historical Significance – First U.S. circulating coin to depict a real woman, tied to the women’s suffrage movement.
Short Regular Mintage Period – Only three consecutive years of standard production, plus a one-year revival in 1999.
Recognizable Varieties – The Wide Rim 1979-P and the Clear S proof are well-documented and accessible to both new and seasoned collectors.
Affordable Entry Point – Even collectors on a modest budget can start an SBA set, upgrading coins over time.
As more people rediscover this coin, particularly through online sales and coin shows, higher-grade and scarcer varieties are likely to maintain or increase their premium. While it may never reach the status of early silver dollars, it’s a solid choice for those who value historical context and unique design.
How Technology Enhances Collecting
For today’s numismatists, identifying rare varieties and maintaining an organized collection is easier than ever thanks to modern tools. One standout is the Coin ID Scanner app—an intuitive, high-accuracy platform for coin enthusiasts. Available on Android and iOS, it offers:
Coin Identification by Photo – Take or upload a photo to instantly see details like mintage years, country, type, edge, composition, diameter, weight, and estimated market value.
Collection Management – Create a digital inventory of your coins with images, notes, and values.
Extensive Database – Access data on over 187,000 coins from around the world, with smart filters in the premium version.
AI Coin Helper – An intelligent assistant that can guide you in learning more about your coins, spotting varieties, and understanding market trends.
Whether you’re hunting for a Wide Rim in uncirculated condition or cataloging a full SBA series, tools like this make collecting more efficient and rewarding.
Final Thoughts
The 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar might not have captured America’s pocket change for long, but it secured a lasting place in U.S. numismatic history. For collectors, it offers a fascinating blend of historical significance, variety-based challenge, and accessible entry points. With the help of modern coin identification tools, it’s easier than ever to uncover, verify, and track these coins—ensuring that the story of Susan B. Anthony’s place on U.S. currency continues to be appreciated by generations of collectors to come.
If you want to explore or manage your coin collection effortlessly, try out the Coin ID Scanner app — it’s a top-rated, user-friendly solution for coin identification and collection management.