You may have one in a drawer, stuffed in a coin jar, or forgotten in your car’s cupholder. But what if that 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar isn’t just a relic of unpopular U.S. currency — what if it’s worth close to $880,000?
This isn’t a collector’s fantasy. It’s a real possibility, tied to one small but incredibly important mark. Keep reading — and by the end of this article, you’ll know exactly what to look for and why it could change your bank balance forever.
What’s So Special About the 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar?
The Susan B. Anthony dollar coin, introduced in 1979, was the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman. It was meant to modernize American currency, but its near-quarter size made it confusing and unpopular.
Despite lackluster public reception, the final mintage year — 1981 — quietly became one of the most valuable in U.S. coinage history due to limited production and secret minting variations.
Among these, one particular variety could be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on a subtle but game-changing detail.
The History Behind This Rare Coin
In 1981, the U.S. Mint stopped circulating the Susan B. Anthony dollar. However, it still produced them for collector sets at the Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco Mints.
This means 1981 SBA dollars were never released for general circulation, making any found in change immediately more suspicious — and potentially more valuable.
But one batch of San Francisco Mint coins (1981-S) came with a peculiar marking: a “Type 2” clear S mintmark, very different from the more common “blobby” version.
Why the Type 2 Mint Mark Is Worth a Fortune
So what’s the big deal about the 1981-S Type 2 dollar? It’s all about the precision of the mint mark.
While most 1981-S coins have a Type 1 mint mark (a filled, hazy “S”), the Type 2 version features a sharply defined, clear “S” — a style used only for proof coins during a narrow production window.
Fewer than 500 of these Type 2 coins are believed to exist in pristine, high-grade condition, making them one of the rarest modern U.S. coins ever struck.
And yes, one sold at auction for $880,000 in near-perfect PR70 Deep Cameo condition.
How to Spot the $880,000 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
You don’t need expensive gear — just your eyes, some patience, and maybe a magnifying glass.
Look for a 1981-S dollar. Flip the coin and inspect the “S” mint mark above Anthony’s shoulder.
If it’s sharply defined and resembles a clean serif font — not a fuzzy blob — you may be looking at the legendary Type 2 proof.
For added comparison:
| Mint Mark Type | Appearance | Rarity (High Grade) | Potential Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type 1 (Common) | Blurry, filled “S” | Common | $5–$50 |
| Type 2 (Rare) | Clear, sharp “S” with defined shape | Extremely Limited (<500) | Up to $880,000 |
Still unsure? Many reputable dealers and grading companies like PCGS or NGC can certify the coin and verify its variety.
Jaw-Dropping Facts That Make This Coin Legendary
- Only three years of Susan B. Anthony dollars were struck for circulation: 1979, 1980, and 1999.
- The 1981 coins were minted only for collectors — meaning finding one in circulation is almost always accidental.
- The Type 2 mintmark was an unintended variation during a die change at the San Francisco Mint.
- The highest-graded specimen of this coin fetched $880,000 at auction, shocking even seasoned collectors.
Expert Tips for Susan B. Anthony Collectors
- Check proof sets from 1981 — many Type 2 dollars were never separated and could still be sitting in family collections.
- Always examine the mint mark closely. Use coin grading guides or online comparison images to spot the difference.
- Never clean your coin — it can reduce the value dramatically.
- Use certified services like PCGS CoinFacts or Heritage Auctions archives to verify auction histories.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if I have a Type 2 mint mark?
The “S” will be clearly struck, with sharp edges and no blurring. Compare to images online or use a 10x magnifier.
Are all 1981 SBA dollars valuable?
No. Only specific versions — especially the 1981-S Type 2 in pristine proof condition — carry extreme value.
What if I find one in poor condition?
Even a circulated or scratched Type 2 could be worth hundreds, sometimes thousands, depending on market demand.
Where can I sell one?
Professional auction houses, coin shows, or platforms like Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers are best for serious buyers.
Final Takeaway: That Coin Could Change Your Life
The next time you see a Susan B. Anthony dollar, don’t dismiss it as pocket change. Look closely — the right mark could signal a coin worth nearly a million dollars.
And the best part? It may already be in your collection, waiting to be discovered.