Most people have old coins tucked away in drawers, jars, or inherited collections — often without realizing their hidden value. One coin stirring excitement among collectors is the 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar, with rare versions reportedly worth up to $880,000.
But what makes this coin so special? And could it still be hiding in your change? Let’s break it down.
Why the 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Is Unique
The Susan B. Anthony dollar was first issued in 1979 to honor the women’s rights activist. It was the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman instead of a symbolic figure.
The coin was minted from 1979 to 1981, then briefly brought back in 1999. What makes the 1981 version stand out is its limited release. These coins were produced mainly for collectors, not everyday circulation. That scarcity makes high-quality versions especially valuable today.
What Makes the 1981 Dollar Worth $880,000?
Not every 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar is worth a fortune. The one that collectors chase is a rare proof coin graded as Proof-70 Deep Cameo (PR70DCAM).
Here’s what that means:
- Flawless condition — No marks or scratches, even under magnification.
- Mirror-like finish — Shiny background with frosted details.
- Strong contrast — Crisp portrait of Susan B. Anthony and eagle design.
A coin graded at this level is nearly impossible to find, which is why one could fetch close to $880,000 at auction.
How to Identify a Rare 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
If you think you might have one, here’s what to check:
- Mint Mark: Look for an “S” (San Francisco Mint).
- Finish: Proof-like shine with deep frosted contrast.
- Condition: No visible wear or damage.
- Details: Sharp, clear design on both sides.
1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Value Guide
Not all coins are worth six figures, but even regular versions can have collector value.
| Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Circulated (common) | $1 – $10 |
| Uncirculated (MS65) | $50 – $100 |
| Proof PR70DCAM | Up to $880,000 (extremely rare) |
the 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Still in Circulation?
Technically, yes — the Susan B. Anthony dollar is still legal tender. But because of its size (close to a quarter), it was never popular and quickly vanished from daily transactions.
That means while it’s rare to see one in circulation today, some coins could still be sitting in jars, piggy banks, or inherited collections across the country.
What to Do If You Find One
If you come across a 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar — especially with an “S” mint mark — don’t rush to spend it.
Here’s what to do:
- Store it safely in a protective holder.
- Never clean it — cleaning lowers the value.
- Get it appraised by a professional coin dealer.
- For rare finds, submit it to a grading service like PCGS or NGC.
Final Word
The 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar isn’t just a coin — it’s a piece of U.S. history. While most are worth only face value, the rare PR70DCAM proof versions can reach hundreds of thousands of dollars.
So before you dismiss old coins in your collection, take a second look. That forgotten dollar coin could be worth far more than you think.