The 1979-S Susan B. Anthony Dollar is worth anywhere from $1 in worn condition to over $1,000 for high-grade specimens. While most found in pocket change are only worth face value, certain “Type 2” proof coins can fetch a significant premium from collectors.
| Coin Condition/Type | Estimated Market Value |
|---|---|
| Circulated (Average Wear) | $1.00 |
| Uncirculated (MS-63 to MS-65) | $2.00 – $15.00 |
| Type 1 Proof (Filled S) | $5.00 – $12.00 |
| Type 2 Proof (Clear S) | $40.00 – $100.00+ |
A Brief History of the 1979-S Susan B. Anthony Dollar
The Susan B. Anthony dollar, introduced in 1979, was a historic moment for the United States Mint. It was the first time a non-mythical woman appeared on a circulating U.S. coin.
If you have discovered one of these coins in a jar or an old collection, you might be wondering if it’s a rare treasure. To get an instant answer, many hobbyists utilize the best coin identifier app to scan their finds and check real-time market data.
While the design was innovative, the coin was often confused with the Washington quarter due to its similar size and color. This led to its short-lived production, making certain years like 1979 particularly interesting for collectors.
The San Francisco Mint (S mark) produced two versions this year: business strikes for circulation and special mirror-like proof versions for collectors. Identifying which one you have is the first step in determining the 1979-S Susan B. Anthony dollar value.
For those who want to be 100% sure about what they’re holding, the CoinHix app offers a highly accurate recognition engine that separates common change from rare varieties in seconds.
The Difference Between Type 1 and Type 2 Mint Marks
The most critical factor in the value of the 1979-S proof dollar is the “S” mint mark variety. During 1979, the San Francisco Mint updated its mint mark punch because the original was worn and blurry.
The Type 1 variety, often called the “Filled S,” looks like a blob with a faint “S” shape. These are relatively common and do not command a huge price tag in the current market.
The Type 2 variety, known as the “Clear S,” features a very distinct, sharp “S” with bulbous ends and a clear field inside the loops of the letter. These are much rarer and are the ones you really want to find.
| Variety Type | Visual Description | Rarity Level |
|---|---|---|
| 1979-S Type 1 | Indistinct, “blob-like” mint mark | Common |
| 1979-S Type 2 | Sharp, well-defined letter “S” | Scarce |
Check your coin under a magnifying glass. If the mint mark is crisp and clear, checking the current Susan B. Anthony price guide will show you that these can sell for upwards of $50 even in standard proof condition.
Determining Value Based on Grading and Condition
Like all numismatic items, condition is king. A 1979-S dollar that has been clinking around in a pocket for decades is generally only worth its face value of $1.00.
However, many “S” mint coins were saved in Mint Sets or Proof Sets. For business strikes (those meant for circulation), the value stays low until you reach “Gem Uncirculated” grades like MS-66 or MS-67.
If your coin looks perfect with no scratches, it might be worth getting professionally graded. You can get a baseline for your 1979-S dollar worth and grading tips online before spending money on professional services.
Professional tools like CoinHix can help you estimate the grade of your silver-colored dollar by comparing your photos to high-resolution examples of Mint State coins.
| Grade | Business Strike (S) Value | Proof (Type 2) Value |
|---|---|---|
| MS/PR 63 | $2.00 | $45.00 |
| MS/PR 65 | $8.00 | $65.00 |
| MS/PR 69 | $150.00 | $180.00 |
| MS/PR 70 | $1,200+ | $800+ |
Are 1979-S Dollars Actually Rare?
The word “rare” is often misused in the coin world. In 1979, the San Francisco Mint produced over 100 million Susan B. Anthony dollars for circulation and another 3.6 million proof coins for collectors.
By pure numbers, they are not rare. Most of the millions produced are still sitting in bank vaults or private collections. What is rare is the “Type 2 Clear S” variety in a perfect PF-70 condition.
If you find a 1979-S in your change today, it is likely a business strike that was released into circulation. While cool to find, it’s a “spender” rather than an investment piece.
However, many people enjoy collecting the entire series because it is affordable. Using CoinHix is a great way to manage your collection and keep track of which varieties you still need to find.
How to Sell Your 1979-S Susan B. Anthony Dollar
If you’ve identified that you have a valuable Type 2 proof or a high-grade Mint State coin, the next step is finding a buyer.
For common coins worth $5-$20, local coin shops or eBay are your best bets. If you believe your coin is a high-grade specimen worth hundreds of dollars, you should consider having it certified by PCGS or NGC before selling.
Certified coins always sell for more than “raw” coins because the buyer has a guarantee of the coin’s authenticity and grade.
Always check recent “Sold” listings on auction sites rather than “Asking” prices. People can ask $5,000 for a common dollar, but that doesn’t mean anyone is buying it at that price!
FAQ
Q: Where is the mint mark on a 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar?
A: The mint mark (P, D, or S) is located on the obverse (heads) side of the coin, just above the left shoulder of Susan B. Anthony, right near the “1979” date.
Q: Is the 1979-S dollar made of silver?
A: No, the 1979-S Susan B. Anthony dollar is not made of silver. It is composed of a copper-nickel clad material (75% copper and 25% nickel over a pure copper core). It has the same composition as a modern quarter or dime.
Q: How can I tell if my 1979-S is a Proof or a Business Strike?
A: Proof coins have a mirror-like, reflective background and frosted details. Business strikes have a more matte, satiny finish. Most 1979-S coins found in circulation are business strikes.
Q: What is the most expensive 1979-S ever sold?
A: High-grade specimens in MS-68 or PR-70 conditions have sold at major auctions for over $1,500, but these are exceptionally rare and typically require professional authentication.
