Imagine finding a simple dollar coin in your drawer worth over $1,000. Sounds crazy, right? Yet thousands of collectors are hunting the 1999-P Susan B. Anthony dollar right now. Let’s explore why this little coin became one of the hottest rare coins of the modern era.
What Is the 1999-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar?
The 1999-P Susan B. Anthony (SBA) dollar is a copper-nickel clad coin struck at the Philadelphia Mint. It features suffragist Susan B. Anthony on the obverse and an eagle landing on the moon on the reverse — the same design used from 1979–1981.
A Quick History of the Series
Launched in 1979 to replace the bulky Eisenhower dollar, the SBA was meant for everyday use. People hated it — too similar to a quarter! Production stopped in 1981, then restarted for one final year in 1999 to meet vending-machine demand before the Sacagawea dollar arrived.
Why the 1999-P Is Suddenly So Valuable
Only 1999-dated coins were made that final year. Philadelphia struck just 29,592,000 circulation coins — tiny compared to billions of other modern coins. Low mintage + 25 years in pockets = most got worn or lost. High-grade examples are genuinely scarce.
Current Market Values (2024–2025)
| Grade | Average Price (2025) |
|---|---|
| MS65 | $45–$80 |
| MS66 | $90–$150 |
| MS67 | $250–$450 |
| MS68 | $1,000–$2,800 |
| MS68+ (Top Pop) | $5,000+ |
Most Valuable Vari-Known Errors & Varieties
| Variety/Error | Record Price |
|---|---|
| 1999-P Prooflike (non-proof) | $2,500+ |
| 1999-P Double Denomination on Cent planchet | $20,700 (2023) |
| Broadstruck Off-Center | $3,000–$6,000 |
| Die cracks & repunched mintmarks | $200–$800 |
How to Spot a Real Keeper
Look for:
- Sharp details on Susan’s hair and eagle feathers
- Full, lustrous surfaces with no contact marks
- Strong strike (some 1999-P coins are weakly struck)
Expert Tips for Collecting
- Buy certified (PCGS/NGC) in MS67 or better — raw coins often overgraded.
- Focus on eye appeal; frosty white examples bring premiums.
- The ultimate prize: PCGS MS68 — fewer than 50 known!
- Store in a cool, dry place; these clad coins tone easily.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is every 1999 Susan B. Anthony dollar valuable?
A: No — only superb gems (MS67+) and dramatic errors bring big money.
Q: Where can I sell mine?
A: Heritage Auctions, GreatCollections, or eBay (with certification).
Q: Are 1999-D or 1999-P proofs valuable too?
A: Proofs are worth $20–$50; the rare circulation strikes are the sleepers.
Final Thoughts
The 1999-P Susan B. Anthony dollar proves that sometimes the most overlooked coins become tomorrow’s treasures. Next time you see that small, hexagon-rimmed dollar, don’t spend it — check the date! One lucky find could be your ticket to a four-figure payday.
Got a 1999 SBA hiding in a jar? Drop a comment below and let us know what grade you think it is — the community loves seeing new discoveries! Happy hunting! 🪙