$880,000 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar: The Susan B. Anthony dollar, minted from 1979 to 1981 and briefly in 1999, was the first U.S. coin to honor a real woman. While most of these coins are worth just $1, a rare 1981 variety could be worth as much as $880,000. This article explores whether this valuable coin might still be in circulation and how to identify it.
Why Is the 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar So Valuable?
The 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar is not particularly rare in general, but one specific variety—the 1981-P “Wide Rim” or “Near Date” variety—is highly sought after by collectors. This version features a wider rim and a date positioned closer to the edge, making it distinct from the standard 1981-P dollar. Due to its limited mintage and high demand, this coin can fetch astronomical prices at auctions.
How to Identify the Rare 1981-P Wide Rim Dollar
The key to spotting this valuable coin lies in examining the rim and date placement. On the rare 1981-P Wide Rim dollar:
The rim around the coin is noticeably thicker.
The date is positioned closer to the edge compared to the common version.
The overall strike may appear sharper.
If you find a 1981-P Susan B. Anthony dollar, compare it to a standard version to check for these differences.
Could This Rare Dollar Still Be in Circulation?
While it’s unlikely, there’s always a chance that a rare coin remains unnoticed in everyday change. Many people overlook Susan B. Anthony dollars, mistaking them for quarters due to their similar size. If you handle cash regularly, especially older coins, it’s worth checking any 1981-P dollars you come across. Coin roll hunting—searching through bank-wrapped coin rolls—can also be a way to find hidden treasures.
What to Do If You Find the 1981-P Wide Rim Dollar
If you believe you’ve found this rare coin, follow these steps:
Verify its authenticity by comparing it to known examples or consulting a coin expert.
Get it professionally graded by a service like PCGS or NGC to confirm its condition and value.
Consider selling through a reputable auction house to maximize its worth.
FAQs About the 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Q: How much is a regular 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar worth?
A: Most are only worth face value ($1), but uncirculated examples may sell for $5–$10.
Q: What makes the 1981-P Wide Rim dollar so rare?
A: It has a unique design variation with a thicker rim and closer date, with far fewer minted than the standard version.
Q: Where is the best place to look for this coin?
A: Check old coin collections, bank rolls, or estate sales. Some may still be in circulation.
Q: Has anyone actually found one in change recently?
A: While extremely rare, there have been cases where valuable coins were discovered in everyday transactions.
Table: Key Differences Between Common and Rare 1981-P Susan B. Anthony Dollars
| Feature | Common 1981-P Dollar | Rare 1981-P Wide Rim Dollar |
|---|---|---|
| Rim Thickness | Narrow | Wide |
| Date Position | Farther from edge | Closer to edge |
| Value | $1–$10 | Up to $880,000 |
Conclusion: Keep an Eye Out for This Hidden Treasure
The 1981-P Wide Rim Susan B. Anthony dollar is one of the most valuable modern U.S. coins. While finding one in circulation is a long shot, it’s not impossible. By knowing what to look for, you could uncover a coin worth a small fortune. Always examine your change carefully—you never know what might be hiding in plain sight!
