Susan B. Anthony Dollar

1979-1981, 1999 • United States • $1

About This Coin

The Susan B. Anthony Dollar was the first U.S. coin to honor a real woman. Despite its historical significance, it was unpopular due to its similarity in size to the quarter, leading to its quick discontinuation.

Specifications

Composition

Copper-Nickel Clad

Weight

8.1 grams

Diameter

26.5 mm

Edge

Reeded

Designer

Frank Gasparro

Mintage

Varies by year (hundreds of millions total)

Estimated Values by Condition

Condition	Estimated Value
Poor (P)	$1-2
Good (G)	$1-2
Fine (F)	$1-2
Very Fine (VF)	$1-2
Extremely Fine (EF/XF)	$2-5
Uncirculated (MS)	$5-20

* Values are estimates based on market data and may vary significantly based on specific condition, mint mark, and market demand.

Identification Tips

Look for Susan B. Anthony's portrait on the obverse with "LIBERTY" and the date. The reverse shows an eagle landing on the moon (Apollo 11 design). The 11-sided inner border is distinctive. The 1979-P Wide Rim and 1979-S Filled S/Clear S varieties are notable. The 1981-S and 1999-P are scarcer in circulation.

Historical Context

Introduced in 1979 to honor women's rights activist Susan B. Anthony, this dollar was intended to replace the unpopular Eisenhower Dollar and save money on printing $1 bills. However, its similarity in size and color to the quarter led to widespread confusion and rejection. Production ceased in 1981 (except for collectors) and briefly resumed in 1999 before being replaced by the Sacagawea Dollar in 2000.

Notable Varieties

1979-P Wide Rim
1979-P Narrow Rim
1979-S Filled S
1979-S Clear S
1981-S Type 1
1981-S Type 2

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the Susan B. Anthony Dollar fail?

The coin was too similar in size (26.5mm) and appearance to the quarter (24.3mm), causing constant confusion. Vending machines often rejected them. The public preferred $1 bills. Despite being cheaper to produce than paper money, the SBA dollar never gained acceptance and was discontinued after just three years.

Are Susan B. Anthony Dollars valuable?

Most are worth face value ($1) to $2-5. However, certain varieties like 1979-P Wide Rim ($10-50), 1981-S Type 2 proof ($50-150), and high-grade examples can be worth more. The 1999-P is worth $5-10 in uncirculated condition.