A Dollar Worth a Fortune?
What if a dollar coin in your pocket could make you nearly a million bucks? That’s the buzz about a super-rare 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar that might be worth up to $880,000. These coins, minted from 1979 to 1981 and again in 1999, feature women’s rights hero Susan B. Anthony. Most are worth just $1, but a few with special traits could be hiding in your change. Coin collectors are going wild over the idea that one of these treasures might still be out there, waiting to be found.
Why Is This Coin So Valuable?
The Susan B. Anthony Dollar was meant to replace the big Eisenhower Dollar, but people often mistook it for a quarter because of its size and color. By 1981, production stopped due to its unpopularity. What makes some 1981 coins special is a rare minting error or proof version, especially the 1981-S Type 2 proof. This coin has a unique “S” mint mark that’s sharper and clearer than usual. Only a few were made, and some accidentally slipped into circulation. High-grade versions have sold for $10,000 or more at auctions, with rumors of one fetching $880,000 in pristine condition.
How to Spot the Rare Dollar
Want to check if you’ve got a jackpot coin? Here’s what to look for:
- Date and Mint Mark: It must be 1981 with an “S” above Susan B. Anthony’s shoulder.
- Type 2 “S”: The “S” should have clean, sharp edges with a flat top, not rounded. Use a magnifying glass to check.
- Condition: Coins in near-perfect shape are worth the most. Scratches or wear can drop the value fast.
If you think you’ve found one, don’t clean it—it could ruin its worth! Take it to a pro grader like PCGS or NGC to confirm.
| Feature | What to Look For | Potential Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1981-S Type 2 Proof | Sharp, clear “S” mint mark | Up to $880,000 |
| Double Die Error | Blurry letters or design | $1,000–$10,000 |
| Pristine Condition | No scratches, uncirculated | $10,000+ |
Could It Still Be Out There?
Believe it or not, some of these rare coins might still be in circulation. Proof coins, meant for collectors, sometimes end up in change through mistakes, like bank roll mix-ups or estate sales. Since the Susan B. Anthony Dollar looked like a quarter, many were ignored or tossed into jars. Stories exist of lucky finds, like rare coins found at flea markets or in old collections. Experts say a few 1981-S Type 2 proofs could still be hiding in piggy banks or cash registers, making the hunt exciting for anyone with spare change.
Start Your Treasure Hunt
The thought of finding an $880,000 coin is enough to make anyone check their wallet. Dig through your change, old coin jars, or family heirlooms. Join online coin groups or visit a local coin shop to learn more about spotting these gems. Even if you don’t find a million-dollar dollar, a rare Susan B. Anthony coin worth thousands is still a thrill. So, next time you get change at the store, take a closer look—you might be holding a fortune in your hand
