The 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar may look like a regular $1 coin, but it hides a story of history, rarity, and huge value. While most of these coins are worth only a dollar, some rare versions have sold for as much as $880,000 at auction.
Collectors and investors search for these coins because of their low production, rare minting errors, and historical importance. In this article, we’ll explain why the 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar is special, how to identify it, and why it could be a treasure for you.
Why the 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Is So Valuable
This coin stands out for a few important reasons:
- Low mintage (limited production) – only a few million were made.
- Rare errors and varieties – some coins were struck with unusual mistakes that make them highly collectible.
- Historical importance – it was the first U.S. coin to feature a woman, honoring Susan B. Anthony, a famous suffragist.
Because of these reasons, certain 1981 versions sell for hundreds of thousands of dollars today.
A Quick History of the Susan B. Anthony Dollar
The Susan B. Anthony Dollar was introduced in 1979 as a smaller replacement for the large Eisenhower Dollar. It was meant to be lighter and easier to use.
- Design – The front shows Susan B. Anthony’s portrait, while the back shows an eagle landing on the moon, symbolizing U.S. space achievements.
- Public confusion – People often mixed it up with the quarter because both coins were similar in size and color.
- Decline in use – Due to low popularity, the U.S. Mint reduced production. By 1981, far fewer coins were made, which makes that year’s coins rare today.
What Makes the 1981 Version Stand Out?
In 1981, coins were minted at only three places: Philadelphia (P), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S). Unlike earlier years, most of the 1981 coins were made for collectors instead of everyday circulation.
Some special errors make the coin extremely valuable:
- Clear “S” Error – Some Philadelphia coins were struck with a San Francisco “S” mint mark.
- Off-center strikes – Misprinted designs make these coins unique.
- Doubled die errors – Some coins show doubled letters or numbers.
- Proof coins – Special coins made for collectors at the San Francisco Mint are especially prized.
1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Obverse Design | Portrait of Susan B. Anthony with “LIBERTY” and year 1981 |
| Reverse Design | Eagle landing on the moon with “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE DOLLAR” |
| Material | Copper-nickel clad (75% copper, 25% nickel) |
| Diameter | 26.5 mm (similar to a quarter) |
| Weight | 8.1 grams |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mint Marks | “P” (Philadelphia), “D” (Denver), “S” (San Francisco) above Anthony’s shoulder |
Rarity and Auction Prices
The numbers show why these coins are rare:
- Philadelphia (P): ~3 million coins
- Denver (D): ~3.2 million coins
- San Francisco (S): ~3.5 million coins (including proofs)
One 1981-P Clear “S” error coin sold for $880,000 in 2023. Even normal versions in uncirculated condition can sell for $5 to $20, while proof coins and error coins can go into the hundreds of thousands.
How to Spot a Valuable 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
If you think you have one of these coins, here’s what to do:
- Check the Mint Mark – Look above Susan B. Anthony’s shoulder. The Clear “S” error is the most valuable.
- Inspect for Errors – Use a magnifying glass to check for off-center strikes or doubled letters.
- Look at Condition – Coins graded MS-65 or above are worth much more.
- Get a Professional Appraisal – Services like PCGS or NGC can officially grade and authenticate your coin.
Where to Find These Coins
- Old pocket change – Rare, but sometimes found in rolls or collections.
- Coin shows – A great place to see rare versions.
- Online auctions – Websites like eBay, Heritage Auctions, or Stack’s Bowers often list them.
- Coin dealers – Trusted shops can sell and verify authentic coins.
Tips for Buyers and Collectors
- Buy only from reputable sellers.
- Prefer graded coins for security.
- Compare recent auction results before paying.
How to Store and Protect Your Coin
- Use airtight holders or capsules.
- Never clean the coin, as it lowers value.
- Store in a cool, dry place.
- Handle only with cotton gloves to avoid skin oils damaging it.
The Future of the 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
With such low mintage, historical importance, and rare errors, the 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar will likely continue to grow in value.
Collectors are always searching for these coins, and as they become harder to find, prices are expected to rise. For anyone interested in coins, owning one is both a smart investment and a piece of history.
The 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar is more than just money—it’s a collectible treasure. With its unique history, limited numbers, and rare minting errors, this coin has turned into one of the most valuable U.S. dollars ever made.
Whether found in an old collection or purchased through an auction, owning one of these coins could mean holding onto a fortune. If you come across a 1981 dollar, check it carefully—you might just discover a piece of history worth $880,000 or more.
FAQs
How much is a regular 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar worth?
A regular circulated coin is usually worth $1, but uncirculated ones can be $5–$20.
Why is the $880,000 coin so special?
It’s a rare 1981-P coin struck with a Clear “S” mint error, making it extremely rare and valuable.
Can I still find these coins in circulation?
It’s very rare, but sometimes they appear in old rolls, banks, or family coin collections.