1999 Susan B. Anthony Dollar: Walking into a thrift store usually means digging through secondhand jackets, stacks of old books, or maybe a box of forgotten records. But every once in a while, something extraordinary surfaces. That’s exactly what happened when a shopper stumbled across an ordinary-looking Susan B. Anthony dollar coin from 1999 one that later shocked the coin-collecting world by selling for a jaw-dropping $14 million.
The Story Behind the Coin
The Susan B. Anthony dollar first entered circulation in 1979. It was meant to celebrate the trailblazing suffragist who played a central role in the women’s rights movement. Despite good intentions, the coin was met with public confusion: its size and color too closely resembled a quarter, leading to poor acceptance. After just a couple of years, production was halted in 1981.
Fast-forward to 1999: The U.S. Mint briefly brought the coin back to meet demand from transit systems and vending machines. That last-minute reissue became the final chapter for the series and also opened the door for rare mistakes and minting quirks that collectors now chase with passion.
Why This Coin Stood Out
The thrift store discovery wasn’t just any 1999 Philadelphia-minted coin. Experts identified it as having an unusual combination of proof-like finish and a dramatic minting error. Essentially, it was a one-of-a-kind specimen the kind of coin serious numismatists dream about. With such extreme rarity and historical significance, bidding wars erupted until the final price hit $14 million, securing its place among the most expensive modern U.S. coins ever sold.
How Rare Is the 1999 P Susan B. Anthony Dollar?
- Mintage Numbers: About 11.9 million coins struck at the Philadelphia Mint relatively low compared to other U.S. denominations.
- Error Coins: A handful show striking mistakes or double dies, but the vast majority are worth only face value.
- Proofs vs. Circulated Coins: Standard circulated versions fetch just $1–$3, while pristine proofs can sell for a few hundred dollars.
The $14 million example, however, is in a league of its own.
How to Spot a Valuable Susan B. Anthony Dollar
- Check the Date & Mint Mark – Coins from 1979, 1981, and 1999 with “P,” “D,” or “S” mint marks are worth a closer look.
- Look for Errors – Off-center strikes, doubling in the lettering, or odd coloration could add serious value.
- Examine Condition – Coins kept uncirculated or stored in protective cases are more desirable to collectors.
- Seek Professional Grading – Services like PCGS or NGC can officially grade and authenticate coins, which increases credibility and value.
Lessons for Treasure Hunters
Stories like this remind us that hidden gems often turn up in the most ordinary places. Estate sales, flea markets, and yes, even thrift stores can occasionally yield finds worth millions. For collectors, it’s not just about the money it’s about the thrill of discovery and the preservation of history.
Final Word
The 1999 P Susan B. Anthony Dollar that fetched $14 million started as spare change in a thrift store and ended as a record-breaking treasure. It’s proof that sometimes fortune really does hide in plain sight. Next time you come across an unassuming coin, don’t dismiss it too quickly history might be sitting in the palm of your hand.