The 1979-S Type 2 Susan B. Anthony Dollar is worth anywhere from $40 in standard proof condition to over $1,500 in top-tier certification. This specific coin is a favorite among collectors because it represents a rare “transition” moment in San Francisco minting history, making it significantly more valuable than the common versions found in pocket change.
| Coin Version | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|
| 1979-S Type 1 (Blob S) | $5 – $12 |
| 1979-S Type 2 (Clear S) | $40 – $150+ |
| PR70 Ultra Cameo (Perfect) | $500 – $1,800 |
Understanding the 1979-S Type 2 Dollar Value
If you’ve recently inherited a coin collection or found a shiny proof dollar in a velvet-lined box, you might be holding a treasure. While most Susan B. Anthony dollars are only worth their face value of one dollar, the 1979-S Type 2 is the exception that proves the rule. To know if you have the “good” one, you need to use the best coin identifier app to zoom in on the mint mark.
The San Francisco Mint produced two different “S” mint marks in 1979. The first, known as Type 1, features a mint mark that looks like a blurry blob. The later Type 2, or the “Clear S,” features a distinct, well-defined letter with clear round loops. This version is much scarcer because it was only introduced toward the very end of the production year.
If you are unsure whether your coin is a Type 1 or Type 2, CoinHix can help you analyze the imagery. The “Clear S” variety is highly sought after because it was part of a limited corrective measure by the Mint to improve the aesthetic quality of proof sets. Many beginners overlook the difference, but the financial gap between the two is substantial.
How to Identify the Rare Clear S Mint Mark
Identifying the 1979-S Type 2 Susan B. Anthony dollar requires a magnifying glass or a high-quality smartphone camera. The Type 1 “Blob S” is exactly what it sounds like—the “S” is filled in, and the center parts of the letter are indistinguishable from the background. It often looks like a rectangle with rounded corners rather than a letter.
Conversely, the Type 2 “Clear S” has very sharp serifs. The ends of the letter “S” are bulbous and clear, and there is a deep “field” (flat space) inside the loops of the letter. If your coin has a very sharp, crisp “S” that pops out against the shiny background, you are likely looking at a high-value item. Checking the current Susan B. Anthony value data can help you see how these physical differences translate into market prices.
Collectors often use CoinHix to compare their coin’s mint mark against high-resolution reference photos. This is the fastest way to confirm your find. Remember, these coins were only issued in Proof Sets, meaning they should be extremely shiny, almost like a mirror, with George Washington’s face appearing frosted. If the coin looks like a regular dull quarter, it’s a standard business strike worth only $1.
Historical Context: Why Is the Type 2 So Rare?
The Susan B. Anthony dollar was introduced in 1979 to replace the bulky Eisenhower dollar, but it was largely rejected by the American public because it was too similar in size and color to the quarter. Because of this, most 1979 dollars were minted in massive quantities for circulation. However, the San Francisco Mint also struck specialty “Proof” versions for collectors.
Midway through 1979, the Mint realized the punch they were using for the “S” mint mark had become worn and clogged, resulting in the “Blob” appearance. They replaced it with a brand new, sharper punch. Because this change happened late in the production cycle, significantly fewer Type 2 coins were minted compared to Type 1. This scarcity is exactly why the 1979 SB Anthony dollar price trends remain so strong compared to other modern coins.
For everyday Americans, this means a “standard” looking coin set from 1979 might be worth $5, but a set containing the Type 2 SBA dollar could easily sell for $50 to $100. It is a perfect example of how a tiny detail, visible only under magnification, can change a coin’s worth by 1000%.
| Condition Grade | Type 1 Price | Type 2 Price |
|---|---|---|
| PR 65 (Standard) | $7 | $45 |
| PR 68 (Excellent) | $15 | $65 |
| PR 69 (Near Perfect) | $25 | $110 |
| PR 70 (Flawless) | $250 | $1,600+ |
The Grading Factor: PR69 vs PR70
In the world of coin collecting, condition is everything. A “Proof” coin is graded on a scale from 1 to 70. Most 1979-S Type 2 dollars found in original government packaging will grade at PR68 or PR69. These are beautiful coins, but they are relatively common among collectors.
The real money is found in PR70 Deep Cameo (DCAM) specimens. A PR70 grade means the coin is perfect even under 5x magnification—no scratches, no milk spots, and no manufacturing flaws. Because the Susan B. Anthony dollar series was often struck with a lot of “clatter,” finding a perfect Type 2 is incredibly difficult.
If you think your coin might be a candidate for a perfect grade, using CoinHix to scan for surface micro-scratches is a smart first step. Professional grading by services like PCGS or NGC costs money, so you want to be sure your coin has a chance at a high grade before sending it in. A single point in grade can be the difference between a $100 coin and a $1,500 coin.
Where to Sell Your 1979-S Type 2 Dollar
Once you’ve identified your coin as a Type 2, you might be wondering how to turn it into cash. Because this is a specialty variety, your local pawn shop might not offer you a fair price. They often buy based on silver content, and since these coins are made of copper-nickel, they have no “melt value.”
The best places to sell are reputable coin dealers or through online auction houses like eBay or Heritage Auctions. When listing online, make sure to take a clear, high-resolution photo of the mint mark. Use keywords like “Type 2,” “Clear S,” and “Deep Cameo” to attract serious collectors who are specifically looking for this variety.
Before selling, always check recent “Sold” listings rather than “Asking” prices. This gives you a realistic view of what people are actually paying. If your coin is certified (slabbed) in a plastic holder by PCGS or NGC, it will always sell for more and much faster than an “unraw” coin, as the buyer has a guarantee of its authenticity and grade.
| Sale Platform | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Local Coin Shop | Instant cash, safe | Lower payout (wholesale) |
| eBay Auctions | Highest potential price | Fees, shipping, scam risk |
| Major Auction Houses | Best for PR70 rarities | Long wait times, high fees |
Final Tips for New Coin Hunters
Hunting for the 1979-S Type 2 Susan B. Anthony dollar is a great way to start a coin collection. It teaches you to look for the fine details that separate “pocket change” from “investment grade.” Even if you don’t find a thousand-dollar coin, discovering a $50 variety in a $5 proof set is an exciting win.
Always handle your proof coins by the edges to avoid leaving fingerprints. The oils from your skin can actually corrode the surface of a proof coin over time, permanently lowering its grade and value. Keep your coins in PVC-free flips or their original plastic cases to ensure they stay in “Mint State” condition.
Whether you are a casual hobbyist or someone who just found an old box of coins in the attic, understanding the nuances of the 1979-S mint marks is essential. With the right tools and a bit of patience, you can accurately value your collection and ensure you never accidentally spend a rare treasure at the grocery store.
FAQ
Q: Is the 1979-P or 1979-D dollar worth anything?
A: Generally, no. The 1979-P (Philadelphia) and 1979-D (Denver) were minted by the hundreds of millions for circulation. Unless they are in perfect, uncirculated condition or have a major mint error, they are only worth $1.
Q: What is a “Wide Rim” 1979 Susan B. Anthony?
A: The “Wide Rim” (or Near Date) is another rare variety from 1979, but it is a business strike coin from Philadelphia, not a proof from San Francisco. It is identified by the date being extremely close to the rim of the coin.
Q: Are all Susan B. Anthony dollars made of silver?
A: No. None of the Susan B. Anthony dollars intended for circulation or proof sets contain any silver. They are made of a copper-nickel clad composition, similar to modern quarters and dimes.
Q: Can I find a Type 2 Susan B. Anthony in my pocket change?
A: It is extremely unlikely. Type 2 coins were only issued in Proof Sets, which are sold in plastic cases to collectors. If someone “broke” a set and spent the coin, it would likely be so scratched up that its “Type 2” premium would vanish.
Q: How many 1979-S Type 2 coins were made?
A: While exact figures are debated, expert estimates suggests that only about 10-15% of the total 1979-S proof production featured the Type 2 mint mark, making it much scarcer than the Type 1.