Imagine doing laundry, reaching into a pocket, and pulling out a dull-looking dollar coin. Most people would toss it in a jar and forget it. One lucky (or very observant) person didn’t. That exact 1979-S Susan B. Anthony dollar, graded MS68 by PCGS, just hammered for an eye-popping $39,500 at Heritage Auctions in 2025.
Meet the Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Released in 1979, the “Susie B” was the U.S. Mint’s first attempt at a small-sized dollar coin. It was meant to replace the bulky Eisenhower dollar and compete with paper dollars. Unfortunately, it looked too much like a quarter, confused the public, and was discontinued by 1981… then briefly revived in 1999.
The Rare Error That Changed Everything
This record-breaker is a 1979-S Type 2 with the ultra-clear “S” mintmark – the holy grail of the series. Most 1979-S coins have a blurry, filled “S” (Type 1). Only a tiny fraction got the crisp new punch (Type 2), and finding one in near-perfect condition is almost impossible.
Why These Coins Are Suddenly Hot Again
Pop culture (TikTok coin hunters), record auction prices, and simple scarcity have lit a fire under the Susan B. Anthony series. Collectors who laughed at them 20 years ago are now paying thousands for top-grade examples.
How Much Are Yours Really Worth? (Value Table)
| Year/Mint | Variety | Good-VF | AU/MS60-65 | MS67 | MS68 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1979-P | Wide Rim | $5–15 | $50–150 | $800 | $5,000+ |
| 1979-D | Regular | $2–5 | $10–30 | $200 | $2,500+ |
| 1979-S | Type 1 | $2–5 | $10–40 | $150 | $1,000+ |
| 1979-S | Type 2 Proof | $5–10 | — | $300 | $8,000+ |
| 1979-S | Type 2 (this coin) | — | — | — | $39,500 |
Top 5 Most Valuable Susan B. Anthony Dollars Ever Sold
| Rank | Coin Details | Grade | Sale Price | Year Sold |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1979-S Type 2 | MS68 | $39,500 | 2025 |
| 2 | 1979-P Wide Rim | MS68 | $18,800 | 2022 |
| 3 | 1981-S Type 2 | MS68 | $16,500 | 2024 |
| 4 | 1979-S Type 2 | MS67+ | $10,200 | 2023 |
| 5 | 1999-P Proof | PR70 | $8,500 | 2021 |
Pro Tips: How to Hunt These in the Wild
- Look for 1979-S with a clear, blob-free “S” mintmark (use 10x loupe).
- Check 1979-P coins for the “Wide Rim” or “Near Date” variety.
- Never clean coins – it destroys value instantly.
- Search coin-star reject trays and old cash registers – they still turn up!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are all Susan B. Anthony dollars valuable?
A: No, circulated ones are still worth $1. Only high-grade rare varieties bring big money.
Q: Where can I sell mine?
A: Reputable dealers, eBay (with authentication), or major auctions like Heritage or GreatCollections.
Q: Should I get my coins graded?
A: Only if they look flawless to the naked eye – grading costs $30–$300 per coin.
Final Thoughts – Your Next Fortune Could Be in the Couch
One person’s laundry mistake just became a $39,500 payday. While lightning rarely strikes twice, millions of Susan B. Anthony dollars are still floating around in drawers, jars, and old purses. Take five minutes today to check yours – especially any 1979-S coins. You might just own the next record-breaker.