Rare Susan B. Anthony Dollar Guide: Stories about a Susan B. Anthony dollar selling for as much as $880,000 highlight how dramatic the gap can be between ordinary coins and truly exceptional ones. While the vast majority of SBA dollars trade for only a small premium over face value, a tiny number of rare varieties and authenticated errors have reached astonishing prices because of their scarcity and collector demand.
Susan B. Anthony Dollar Value Snapshot
| Category | Typical Market Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Common circulated coins | $1 to $3 | Very abundant, minimal collector demand |
| Uncirculated high-grade examples | $20 to $500 | Depends heavily on grade and eye appeal |
| Recognized varieties | $500 to $25,000+ | Requires attribution and certification |
| Major mint errors | $5,000 to $100,000+ | Value rises with severity and rarity |
| Unique or one-of-a-kind pieces | Up to $880,000 | Extreme rarity, documented provenance |
Why a Susan B. Anthony Dollar Could Reach $880,000
Extraordinary prices come from a combination of factors that rarely occur together. These include extreme rarity, clear documentation, and verification by respected grading services. When a coin is confirmed as unique or one of only a few known examples, competition among collectors and institutions can push prices far beyond normal expectations. Auction houses amplify this effect by showcasing such coins as landmark pieces.
Coin Collecting Trends to Watch in 2026
Modern U.S. coins are gaining renewed attention, especially those once dismissed as ordinary. Collectors in 2026 are increasingly focused on error coins, die varieties, and top-population grades. Susan B. Anthony dollars benefit from this trend because their short production span makes rare anomalies easier to isolate and study.
How to Identify a Potentially Valuable Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Begin with a systematic inspection. Coins that achieve extraordinary values almost always show something clearly different from standard examples. This may be a striking mint error, a rare die pairing, or an unusually high state of preservation that sets the coin apart.
Key Physical Features to Examine
Start by confirming the basic design elements. The obverse shows Susan B. Anthony’s portrait with the date below her shoulder. The reverse displays an eagle perched on a bundle of leaves, encircled by UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and ONE DOLLAR. Circulation strikes have a reeded edge, and the coin’s size and weight should match known specifications. Any major deviation may indicate a planchet or striking error.
Mint Marks, Dates, and Their Importance
Mint marks play a critical role in valuation. SBA dollars were produced at Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. Some Philadelphia coins lack a mint mark, while others carry D or S. Certain combinations of date and mint are common, but rare varieties are tied to very specific pairings. Accurate documentation of both is essential when researching value.
Errors and Varieties That Can Increase Value
Not every flaw adds worth, but some mistakes are highly collectible. These include strong off-center strikes, dramatic double dies visible to the naked eye, misplaced or repunched mint marks, large die breaks that alter the design, and verified planchet or composition errors. The more obvious and well-documented the anomaly, the higher the potential premium.
Grading and Authentication of High-Value SBA Dollars
Coins that sell for large sums are almost always certified by major grading services such as PCGS or NGC. Grading provides a numeric assessment of condition, while authentication confirms the coin is genuine and accurately attributed. Without this step, serious buyers are unlikely to participate.
Practical Steps to Verify a Potential $880K Coin
Use a 10x loupe to inspect the date, lettering, and devices for anomalies. Compare the coin against high-resolution reference images from reliable sources. Weigh and measure it precisely to rule out alterations. Research auction archives and published variety guides for matching characteristics. If strong indicators remain, submit the coin for professional grading and authentication.
Common Pitfalls With Online Listings and Dealers
Photographs can hide critical details. Always request clear close-ups of the date, mint mark, and any unusual features. Be cautious of listings that rely on vague language like rare or one of a kind without certification. Legitimately valuable coins come with documentation and a clear history.
Real-World Example From the Market
A collector once noticed an SBA dollar at an estate sale showing heavy doubling on the date and a prominent die crack across the reverse. Initial research suggested similarities to known varieties, but no exact match. After professional submission, the coin received a recognized variety attribution and a high grade. Although most examples of that date sold cheaply, the authenticated specimen exceeded expectations when auctioned.
When Professional Help Is Essential
If a coin displays multiple major anomalies or if a seller claims exceptional value, consult a qualified numismatist or grading service. Experts can distinguish between genuine mint errors and post-mint damage or alterations. Professional evaluation is the only path to realizing top-tier prices.
Final Verdict
Most Susan B. Anthony dollars remain inexpensive and widely available. However, a very small number of verified errors, rare varieties, and uniquely preserved coins can command extraordinary sums. Careful inspection, thorough research, and professional grading are the keys to separating everyday coins from true numismatic treasures.
Disclaimer
Coin values fluctuate based on market demand, collector interest, and economic conditions. Any price references are general estimates, not guarantees. Always rely on current auction results and professional opinions before making financial decisions.
