The 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar is more than just a coin—it’s a potential treasure hiding in plain sight. With some of these coins valued at up to $880,000, collectors and everyday people alike are eager to know if they’re still in circulation and how to identify one.
This article will break down everything you need to know in simple terms, including the specific mark that makes these coins so valuable. Let’s dive into the world of this iconic coin and uncover its secrets!
What Is the 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar?
The Susan B. Anthony Dollar is a small, silver-colored coin introduced by the U.S. Mint in 1979 to honor the famous women’s rights activist, Susan B. Anthony. It was meant to replace the larger Eisenhower Dollar but faced challenges due to its similarity in size and color to the quarter, causing confusion in everyday transactions. By 1981, production slowed, and only a limited number of these coins were minted, making certain versions extremely rare and valuable.
Why Is It So Valuable?
Certain 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollars are worth a fortune due to a rare minting error or unique features that make them stand out. These coins can fetch prices as high as $880,000 at auctions, especially if they have specific marks or are in pristine condition. Knowing what to look for can turn a simple coin in your pocket into a life-changing discovery.
Are 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollars Still in Circulation?
Yes, some 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollars are still in circulation! While the coin was not widely used and production stopped after 1981 (except for a brief revival in 1999), many of these coins remain in wallets, cash registers, or coin jars. Most people don’t realize they might be holding a rare version worth thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Where Might You Find One?
You could stumble across a 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar in:
- Pocket change: Some coins are still used in everyday transactions.
- Coin rolls: Banks or coin dealers may have rolls containing these dollars.
- Old collections: Check inherited coin stashes or family heirlooms.
- Vending machines or change machines: These coins occasionally pop up in places where coins are exchanged.
The Key Mark to Look For
The value of a 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar often depends on a specific mint mark—a small letter on the coin indicating where it was made. The most valuable coins have the “S” mint mark, which shows they were struck at the San Francisco Mint. Here’s what to check:
How to Spot the “S” Mint Mark
- Location: Look on the left side of the coin, just above Susan B. Anthony’s shoulder.
- Clear vs. Blob “S”: The rarest and most valuable 1981-S coins have a Clear “S” mint mark, which is sharp and distinct. A “Blob S” (a blurry or filled-in “S”) is less valuable but still worth checking.
- Condition Matters: Coins in excellent condition (called “Proof” or “Uncirculated”) with the Clear “S” are the ones that can be worth up to $880,000.
Other Features to Check
| Feature | Description | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Mint Mark | Look for the “S” above Susan’s shoulder. | The Clear “S” is rare and highly valuable. |
| Year | Ensure it says “1981” on the front. | Only 1981 coins with specific marks are worth big money. |
| Condition | Check for scratches, wear, or damage. | Pristine coins fetch higher prices. |
| Edge | Smooth, not reeded like a quarter. | Helps distinguish it from other coins. |
How to Check If Your Coin Is Valuable
Found a 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar? Here’s how to determine if it’s a potential jackpot:
Step 1: Inspect the Mint Mark
Use a magnifying glass to check for the “S” mint mark. A Clear “S” is your golden ticket, while a Blob “S” might still have value but is less rare.
Step 2: Assess the Condition
Coins in “Proof” condition (shiny, untouched, often in special packaging) or “Uncirculated” condition (no wear) are worth more. Worn coins are less valuable but can still be collectible.
Step 3: Get It Appraised
Take your coin to a professional coin dealer or grading service like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation). They can confirm the coin’s authenticity, condition, and value.
Why Some 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollars Are Worth $880,000
The jaw-dropping value of certain 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollars comes from:
- Rarity: The San Francisco Mint produced fewer coins in 1981, and the Clear “S” Proof coins are especially scarce.
- Minting Error: The Clear “S” mark was a rare variation in the minting process, making these coins unique.
- Collector Demand: Collectors are willing to pay top dollar for coins in perfect condition with this specific mark.
For example, a 1981-S Proof coin with a Clear “S” sold for $880,000 at a recent auction due to its rarity and flawless condition.
Tips for Finding a 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Want to hunt for this treasure? Try these tips:
- Check Your Change: Always examine dollar coins you receive.
- Visit Coin Shops: Local dealers may have uncirculated coins or rolls.
- Join Coin Communities: Online forums or local clubs can offer advice and trading opportunities.
- Search Bank Rolls: Ask your bank for rolls of dollar coins to inspect.
What to Do If You Find a Valuable Coin
If you think you’ve found a rare 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar, follow these steps:
- Store It Safely: Keep the coin in a protective holder to avoid damage.
- Avoid Cleaning: Cleaning can lower the coin’s value.
- Get a Professional Opinion: Contact a reputable coin grading service or dealer.
- Research Auction Houses: If confirmed valuable, consider selling through a trusted auction house for the best price.
Fun Facts About the 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
- First Woman on a U.S. Coin: Susan B. Anthony was the first real woman (not a mythical figure) featured on a circulating U.S. coin.
- Short-Lived Coin: The coin was only minted from 1979 to 1981 and briefly in 1999.
- Confused with Quarters: Its size and color led to its unpopularity, as people often mistook it for a quarter.
Conclusion
The 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar is a hidden gem that could be worth up to $880,000 if you find one with the rare Clear “S” mint mark. These coins are still out there, waiting to be discovered in your change, coin rolls, or old collections. By knowing what to look for—like the Clear “S” mark and pristine condition—you could turn a simple coin into a life-changing windfall. Start checking your coins today, and who knows? You might just uncover a treasure!