1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Worth $880,000? Here’s The Secret Mark That Makes It Valuable
Could a common-looking coin be worth nearly a million dollars? Yes—if it’s the 1981 Susan B. Anthony (SBA) dollar with a rare distinguishing feature.
While this coin was widely minted and often overlooked, a specific version with a secret mint mark has shocked collectors by fetching up to $880,000 at auction. This article uncovers what makes this coin so rare and how you can spot one in your collection.
Background: The Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Released between 1979 and 1981 (with a final strike in 1999), the Susan B. Anthony dollar marked a historic milestone as the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman. Designed to honor the iconic women’s rights activist, the coin was minted in Philadelphia (P), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S).
Although production ceased due to poor public reception, some 1981 issues—specifically proof coins from San Francisco—were not meant for general circulation. This detail forms the foundation for one of the most valuable coin variants in modern U.S. numismatics.
The Key: 1981-S Type 2 Proof Dollar
Among all SBA dollar coins, the 1981-S Type 2 Proof stands out. While most coins from this year carry a Type 1 “S” mint mark (with a blob-like, filled appearance), the Type 2 features a sharper, clearer “S”—a key indicator of rarity. These were specially struck for collectors in limited quantities.
Why Is the Type 2 Mint Mark Important?
- Limited availability
- Sharper design elements
- Exclusively part of proof sets
- Easily misidentified in average collections
These characteristics mean that very few of these coins exist in top-tier condition today—boosting demand and skyrocketing value.
Auction Buzz: How a Coin Hit $880,000
A near-flawless 1981-S Type 2 Proof SBA dollar recently sold for an eye-popping $880,000, driven by two rare features:
- A double die obverse error—causing design duplication
- Perfect proof quality, untouched and well-preserved for over four decades
This specific coin checked every box for collectors and investors, setting a new benchmark in value for modern U.S. coins.
Features of the Valuable 1981 SBA Dollar
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Name | 1981-S Susan B. Anthony Dollar (Type 2 Proof) |
| Mint Mark | Clear “S” from San Francisco (Type 2) |
| Obverse Design | Susan B. Anthony portrait |
| Reverse Design | Eagle landing on the moon (Apollo 11 tribute) |
| Weight | 8.1 grams |
| Composition | 75% Copper, 25% Nickel over pure Copper core |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Special Error | Double die obverse (on rare examples) |
| Estimated Value | Up to $880,000 in perfect proof condition |
| Mintage | Approx. 4 million Type 2 Proofs |
What Makes This Coin So Valuable?
1. Extremely Low Circulation
The 1981 Type 2 proof was never meant for wallets or cash registers—only high-end collector sets.
2. Unique Mint Mark
Only a fraction of these proof coins have the clear Type 2 “S” mint mark, with most sets containing the common Type 1.
3. Error Multipliers
If your coin features an error—like a double die obverse or off-center strike—its value can multiply dramatically.
4. Condition is Key
Coins graded PR69 or PR70 (near perfect) command exponentially higher prices, especially when slabbed and verified by top grading companies.
How to Identify a Valuable 1981 SBA Dollar
- Examine the mint mark under magnification: a clear “S” indicates Type 2.
- Check the coin’s surface: it should have mirror-like fields and sharp design edges typical of proof coins.
- Look for any doubling in the lettering or features.
- If you’re unsure, have it professionally graded or appraised.
The 1981-S Susan B. Anthony Dollar may look like spare change—but if it bears the rare Type 2 mint mark, a clean finish, and possibly an error, it could be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.
With only a few known examples in top-grade proof condition, this coin is a hidden treasure in the numismatic world. Don’t overlook your collection—you might be holding a fortune.
FAQs
Are all 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollars valuable?
No. Only the 1981-S Type 2 Proof coins in near-perfect condition or with minting errors carry high value. Common circulation coins are worth face value.
How can I tell if I have the Type 2 mint mark?
Check the “S” under a magnifying glass. Type 1 looks filled or blob-like. Type 2 is crisp, clean, and more squared.
What’s the best way to sell a valuable coin?
Submit it for professional grading and sell through a reputable coin auction house or dealer to ensure maximum return.
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