Susan B. Anthony Dollar

Country of Origin: United States

Year of Issue: 1979

Denomination: One Dollar ($1)

Composition: Copper-Nickel Clad Copper (Outer layers of 75% copper, 25% nickel; inner core of pure copper)

Susan B. Anthony Dollar

Brief Description

A small, silver-colored dollar coin featuring Susan B. Anthony and an Apollo 11 moon landing emblem.

Historical Significance

Introduced in 1979 as the first US circulating coin to depict a real woman. It was intended to replace the paper dollar to save production costs, but failed due to its similar size to the quarter.

Estimated Value

$1.00-$2.00 in circulated condition; $3.00-$10.00 in Mint State grades; higher for specific varieties.

Care Instructions

Do not clean or polish the coin, as this reduces numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free flip or capsule to prevent tarnish and physical damage.

Mint Mark

P (visible above the shoulder), indicating the Philadelphia Mint.

Mintage & Rarity

Common; over 360 million minted in Philadelphia in 1979.

Weight & Diameter

8.1 grams / 26.5 mm

Edge

Reeded

Apparent Grade

Extremely Fine (XF) to About Uncirculated (AU). Visible light circulation wear and some contact marks.

Obverse (Front)

Profile of Susan B. Anthony facing right, with 13 stars, 'LIBERTY', 'IN GOD WE TRUST', and the date. Designer: Frank Gasparro.

Reverse (Back)

An eagle landing on the moon carrying an olive branch, based on the Apollo 11 mission patch. Earth is visible in the background. Designer: Frank Gasparro.

What Drives This Coin's Value

The 'Wide Rim' (Near Date) variety is the primary value driver for 1979-P issues. Overall condition (grade) is the most significant factor for common versions.

Similar Coins

Often confused with the Washington Quarter due to similar size and color.

Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags

Counterfeits of common dates are rare due to low value, but check for clear edge reeding and magnetic properties (should be non-magnetic).

Notable Varieties & Errors

The 1979-P 'Wide Rim' (Near Date) variety where the rim is thicker and the date is closer to it; 1979-S 'Type 2' Proof coins.

Created At: 2026-06-13T19:24:51.775479