Imagine finding a coin in your pocket that could be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars. Sounds too good to be true, right? But for some lucky people, that dream might become reality. A rare version of the 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar is rumored to be worth up to $880,000 — and yes, it might still be hiding in everyday change. Let’s break down what makes this coin so special and how you can tell if you’ve got one.
The History of the Susan B. Anthony Dollar
The Susan B. Anthony dollar was first made in 1979 as a replacement for the bigger Eisenhower dollar. Even though it was supposed to be a handy coin, it looked a lot like a quarter, which confused people. Because of this, it was only made until 1981, with a short return in 1999. While most of these coins are only worth a dollar, some special versions are now worth big money.
The Rare Type 2 Coin
The most valuable Susan B. Anthony dollar is the 1981-S Type 2 proof. These coins were made at the San Francisco Mint and weren’t meant to be used in regular shopping. They were made for coin collectors and had a special “S” mintmark.
What makes the Type 2 different is how the “S” looks. It’s sharp and clear, not blurry like the Type 1 version. Only a small number of these coins were made, and even fewer are in great shape. That’s why collectors are willing to pay thousands — even up to $880,000 — for one in perfect condition.
How to Spot the Rare Coin
Here’s how you can check your coin:
- Step 1: Look at the year. It must say 1981.
- Step 2: Check for the “S” mintmark. You’ll find it just above Susan B. Anthony’s shoulder.
- Step 3: Look closely at the “S”. A Type 2 “S” is thin and sharp. You may need a magnifying glass to see the difference.
If you think you’ve found a Type 2 coin, don’t clean it. Cleaning can lower its value. Instead, have it checked by a professional coin dealer or grading service like PCGS or NGC.
Could It Still Be in Circulation?
It might sound crazy, but yes — it’s possible. Sometimes, rare coins like this slip into everyday use by accident. Maybe someone didn’t know what they had, or maybe it got passed down from a collection. That’s why checking your spare change is always a good idea.
Final Thoughts
Finding a rare Susan B. Anthony dollar worth $880,000 is unlikely — but not impossible. Many people overlook these coins because they look like quarters. With just a few minutes of checking your old change, you could find a coin that’s worth far more than you think. It’s like hunting for treasure, and the prize might be sitting in your coin jar right now!
FAQ’s
Why is the 1981-S Type 2 dollar so valuable?
It’s valuable because it was only made in small numbers, wasn’t meant for regular use, and has a rare mintmark. In perfect condition, it could be worth up to $880,000.
What should I look for on the coin?
Check the date (1981), and look for a clear, sharp “S” mintmark above Susan B. Anthony’s shoulder. That’s the rare Type 2.
Could I really find one in circulation?
Yes, although very rare. Some coins may have accidentally ended up in circulation through estate sales or mix-ups. Always check your change!
