1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar: A simple box of old coins turned into a life-changing surprise for a Pennsylvania family last week. Hidden among the dusty dollars was a 1979-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar “Wide Rim” variety, which stunned collectors when it sold for $25,000 at auction.
What makes this story even more exciting is that the seller had no idea what they were holding. It wasn’t until a local dealer suggested professional grading that the true rarity of the coin was revealed. News of the sale spread quickly, sending collectors and curious newcomers scrambling to check their change for hidden treasures.
Why the “Wide Rim” Matters
The Susan B. Anthony Dollar holds a unique place in U.S. history. Introduced in 1979, it was the first American coin to feature a real woman honoring suffragist Susan B. Anthony. While millions of these coins were struck, the 1979-P Wide Rim stands apart.
- On this variety, the date sits noticeably closer to the edge of the coin.
- The rim itself is thicker, giving the coin a bold appearance compared to the more common “Narrow Rim” pieces.
- Only a limited batch was produced before the design was changed, which makes surviving examples rare.
In mint-state condition, the Wide Rim can bring thousands of dollars and as the recent auction proved, top-graded examples can reach five-figure prices.
A Coin Hunt Frenzy
Since the record sale, coin enthusiasts across the country have been posting photos, questions, and discoveries online. From kids checking their piggy banks to retirees digging through old collections, the thrill of finding a rare dollar has captured public imagination.
Collectors note that Susan B. Anthony Dollars are often mistaken for quarters due to their size and color, meaning treasures could easily slip through unnoticed. Stories of lucky finds from vending machine change to inherited keepsakes only add fuel to the frenzy.
How to Tell If You Have One
If you’re curious whether your Susan B. Anthony Dollar is a Wide Rim, here’s what to check:
- Date Placement – On the 1979-P Wide Rim, the numbers in the date appear close to the edge.
- Rim Thickness – The edge looks noticeably thicker than on regular issues.
- Mint Mark – Look for a small “P” (Philadelphia) near the date.
- Condition – Coins with little to no wear are worth far more.
Important tip: Never clean your coin. Cleaning can destroy its collector value. Instead, take it to a grading service such as PCGS or NGC for authentication.
Other Treasures to Watch For
The Wide Rim isn’t the only Susan B. Anthony Dollar to watch:
- 1979 “Blob Mint Mark” – Caused by a filled die, can bring several thousand.
- 1981 Double Die – An extremely rare error, with auction results soaring into the hundreds of thousands.
Collectors recommend joining coin clubs, reading forums, and comparing finds before making any sale.
The Takeaway
The $25,000 sale of a 1979-P Wide Rim Susan B. Anthony Dollar is a reminder that valuable coins are still out there sometimes sitting unnoticed in drawers and jars. Whether you’re a serious collector or just curious, it’s worth taking a closer look at the change in your pocket.
Who knows? The next great discovery could be waiting in your hands.