Imagine finding a seemingly ordinary 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar in your pocket—and learning it’s worth up to $880,000.
While most 1981 Anthony dollars are common and valued at just face value to a few dollars, a rare variety known as the 1981‑S Type 2 proof can fetch nearly a million if authenticated and in pristine condition.
The Story Behind the Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Introduced in 1979 to honor suffrage pioneer Susan B. Anthony, this coin was minted until 1981, and briefly again in 1999. The small size and copper-nickel composition made it look like a quarter, leading to low public acceptance and limited circulation.
1981 coinage was minted for collectors only, making those few coins especially collectible.
Modern-day discoveries of proof specimens accidentally released into circulation have fueled excitement among coin hunters.
What Makes the 1981‑S Type 2 Proof So Valuable?
The extraordinary $880,000 valuation comes from a very specific variety:
- It must be a 1981 coin minted at San Francisco (mint mark “S”), and specifically a Type 2 proof.
- The Type 2 “S” mint mark appears sharp, distinct, and serif‑edged, unlike the common Type 1 with a fuzzy or filled-in “S”.
- Only a handful of Type 2 proof coins were produced using a new minting die, making them exceptionally rare—even fewer in pristine Ultra Cameo proof condition.
How Did a High-Value Proof Coin Slip into Circulation?
Rare proof coins occasionally escape structured minting sets and enter general use via:
- Estate sales or inherited coin collections
- Bank errors or mix-ups during packaging
- Misunderstanding by spenders, since the coin looks like a quarter
- Coin roll swaps or accidental exchanges
This has led investigators and collectors to dig through coin jars and registers—hoping to catch a glimpse of a potentially priceless Anthony dollar.
Quick Identification Checklist
If you discover a 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar, follow this checklist:
| Check | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Year | Must read “1981” on obverse |
| Mint mark | Letter “S” above shoulder |
| Type of “S” | Sharp, serifed edges = Type 2 proof |
| Condition | No scratches, wear or toning—preferably certified proof (“Ultra Cameo”) |
| Avoid cleaning | Cleaning reduces numismatic value significantly |
Only a well‑preserved Type 2 “S” proof coin could be valued near $880,000. Everyday circulated coins are worth just a few dollars at most.
Market Values and What Ordinary Coins Are Worth
Most 1981 Anthony dollars are relatively common:
- Circulated 1981 coins typically sell for $1–$3
- Uncirculated 1981-S coins graded MS60–MS65 range from $1.60 to $6,500 depending on grade
- A Type 2 proof coin in PF70 Ultra Cameo condition is the only version commanding the six‑figure valuation
- Other proof varieties like Type 1 or circulated specimens are worth significantly less
Why Collectors Are on High Alert
The lure of discovering a nearly $1 million coin keeps collectors and casual coin sorters scanning every Anthony dollar encountered. Even today, stories circulate of people pulling an almost flawless 1981‑S proof from a coin roll or change jar.
It’s a reminder that rare pennies—or dollars—can truly change lives overnight.
What to Do If You Think You Have the Rare Coin
If you believe you’ve found an 1981‑S Type 2 proof Anthony dollar, here’s how to proceed:
- Don’t clean or alter the coin—keep its original patina intact.
- Get it authenticated and graded by a reputable grading service as proof and confirm Type 2 mint mark clarity.
- Consult an experienced coin dealer or auction house if the certification confirms rarity.
- Be aware of market fees and shipping safeguards, especially in high‑value coin auctions.
Could It Really Be in Your Pocket Today?
Yes—at least theoretically. Although extremely rare, the occasional Type 2 proof escaping circulation is confirmed. Since most Susan B. Anthony dollars resemble quarters, many were spent unknowingly.
If one escaped grading and disposal, it might still lie forgotten—and potentially very valuable.
The legend of the $880,000 1981 Susan B. Anthony Type 2 proof dollar highlights how one tiny detail changes everything. This ultra-rare mint mark variation may be hiding in change jars, sealed rolls, or forgotten collections.
While most Anthony dollars are modest in value or near-face value, the discovery of a single Type 2 specimen could change ordinary pocket change into extraordinary treasure.
If you come across a 1981‑S dollar, take a closer look—it might just be the find of a lifetime.
FAQs
Can any 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar be worth $880,000?
No. Only the authenticated 1981‑S Type 2 proof coin in pristine condition has ever approached that valuation. Most others are worth only a few dollars.
How can I tell if my coin is the right type?
Look at the “S” mint mark above Susan B. Anthony’s shoulder: if it’s sharp-edged and serifed, it’s likely Type 2 proof. Use a magnifying glass and compare with reference images.
What about proof coins that aren’t Type 2?
Other proof coins like 1981‑S Type 1 or circulated versions—regardless of condition—carry much lower value, often under $20 unless graded in top condition.