What if that old coin in your pocket change or tucked away in a drawer was worth more than a luxury car? Believe it or not, the 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar has a rare variety that has sold for as much as $880,000. The secret lies in a tiny detail — the mint mark. Let’s unlock the mystery together.
What Is the Rare 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar?
The Susan B. Anthony dollar was minted between 1979 and 1981, with a brief revival in 1999. While most of these coins are worth just a dollar, a rare version of the 1981-S Proof Dollar with a unique mint mark variety can be worth a fortune. The coin’s value skyrockets because of an extremely limited mintage and the fact it was only sold in collector sets, not for everyday circulation.
A Brief History Behind the Coin
The Susan B. Anthony dollar was the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman, honoring the suffragist who fought for women’s voting rights. Released in 1979, it was meant to replace the bulky Eisenhower dollar. However, the public disliked its similarity in size to a quarter, and production stopped after 1981. The rare 1981 proof versions were struck in San Francisco with distinctive “S” mint marks, creating today’s collector goldmine.
1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Mint Locations
| Mint | Mint Mark | Standard Value | Rarity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | P | $1 – $3 | Common |
| Denver | D | $1 – $3 | Common |
| San Francisco (Proof) | S | $50 – $880,000 | Extremely Rare |
Why This Coin Is So Valuable Today
Most coins from 1981 are worth pocket change. But the Type 2 “S” mint mark proof coins have sharper, clearer details compared to the Type 1. Collectors crave these error-like varieties, driving up auction prices to hundreds of thousands. Combine rarity, condition, and demand — and you have a small coin that can fund a dream retirement.
How to Spot the Valuable Mint Mark
- Look for the “S” mark on the coin, located just above Susan B. Anthony’s shoulder.
- Distinguish Type 2 Proofs — the “S” is clearer, more defined, and resembles a neat serif compared to the blurry Type 1.
- Proof coins usually have a mirror-like finish, unlike the duller circulation strikes.
Comparing Type 1 vs Type 2 “S” Mint Marks (1981 Proof)
| Feature | Type 1 (Common) | Type 2 (Rare) |
|---|---|---|
| Mint Mark | Blurry, less defined | Sharp, clear serif |
| Value | $50 – $200 | $10,000 – $880,000 |
| Availability | Relatively common | Extremely limited |
Jaw-Dropping Facts About the 1981 Dollar
- Only 3 million proof coins were struck in 1981 — far fewer than regular issues.
- The most expensive sale of a Type 2 Proof fetched nearly $880,000.
- Many collectors mistakenly spent these rare coins, not realizing their value.
Expert Tips to Maximize Your Find
- Check old proof sets — many 1981 sets were sold cheaply and could contain the jackpot coin.
- Get professional grading from PCGS or NGC to verify authenticity.
- Store properly in protective holders to preserve value.
- Auction houses like Heritage Auctions attract serious bidders and top-dollar sales.
FAQs
Q: Can I find the rare 1981 coin in circulation?
A: Unlikely — most were sold in proof sets, not spent as change.
Q: How do I know if mine is a Type 2?
A: Examine the “S” mint mark under magnification — sharp and clear means it’s Type 2.
Q: Do all 1981 dollars have value?
A: No, only proof coins with the rare mint mark command huge prices.
Conclusion: A Coin Worth a Fortune May Be Closer Than You Think
The 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar with the rare Type 2 mint mark proves that treasure doesn’t always glitter — sometimes it’s a small silver-colored coin hiding in a collection. If you have old proof sets at home, now is the time to check. That ordinary-looking coin could be your $880,000 surprise.
