The 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar stands as a milestone in American coinage, blending historical symbolism with modern design. Struck to honor the pioneering suffragette Susan B. Anthony, it became the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman on its obverse. The reverse design pays tribute to the Apollo 11 mission, linking the coin to one of the nation’s greatest achievements.
Although created to replace the bulky Eisenhower dollar, the SBA dollar faced public resistance. Its size and color too closely resembled the Washington quarter, leading to confusion in circulation. Still, this coin remains a favorite among collectors for its cultural significance, short production span, and variety-rich series. For hobbyists, learning how to check 1979 Susan B Anthony dollar value at home can turn a small collection into a meaningful and potentially valuable pursuit.
Issued between 1979 and 1981, and again briefly in 1999, the Susan B. Anthony dollar was designed to encourage everyday use of the $1 coin. The concept was sound—lighter and easier to handle than its predecessor—but public habits proved difficult to change. Today, these coins survive primarily in collections, mint sets, and bank storage, giving new life to their value through numismatic interest rather than circulation.
Key design details:
Feature | Description |
Obverse | Portrait of Susan B. Anthony surrounded by 13 stars |
Reverse | Eagle landing on the moon, adapted from the Eisenhower dollar |
Designer | Frank Gasparro |
Composition | Copper-nickel clad over a pure copper core |
Weight | 8.1 grams |
Diameter | 26.5 mm |
Edge | Reeded |
Despite its initial unpopularity, the SBA dollar has become a numismatic study piece. It bridges the classic and modern eras of American coinage and offers accessible entry points for beginner collectors.
For newcomers to coin collecting, the SBA dollar offers an ideal blend of affordability, variety, and historical context. Most coins can still be found for face value, yet several distinct varieties and mint errors have earned significant premiums in the collector market.
It’s historically significant, representing progress in both design and social representation.
It includes identifiable varieties like the 1979-P Wide Rim and Narrow Rim, and 1979-S Proof Type I and Type II.
It’s easy to collect, with manageable price ranges and availability in circulated and uncirculated forms.
Even from home, collectors can evaluate SBA dollars using simple tools and modern technology. By mastering the key differences and storing coins properly, you can preserve both condition and value.
Although the 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar was minted in large numbers, several varieties and errors stand out for their rarity and value. Recognizing these distinctions allows hobbyists to separate ordinary coins from those worth examining more closely.
The most well-known distinction within the 1979 issue is between the Wide Rim and Narrow Rim varieties from the Philadelphia Mint. These small design differences significantly affect collector interest.
How to identify them:
Narrow Rim (Far Date): The digits in “1979,” especially the “1,” sit farther from the rim. This was the early production style and is very common.
Wide Rim (Near Date): The date appears closer to the edge, and the rim looks thicker overall. This design adjustment was introduced later in 1979 and is much scarcer.
Approximate value range:
Variety | Grade | Estimated Value | Notes |
Narrow Rim | MS63 | $2–$5 | Common in circulation |
Narrow Rim | MS67+ | $150–$180 | Rare in top condition |
Wide Rim | MS63 | $25–$50 | Harder to find |
Wide Rim | MS67+ | $1,000+ | High-grade collector premium |
Collectors can easily differentiate these types using a 10x magnifier or a digital close-up photo. The Wide Rim variety remains the prize finding among regular 1979 issues.
Minted exclusively at the San Francisco Mint, proof coins were produced for collectors with mirror-like surfaces and sharp detail. The 1979-S proof exists in two types, distinguished by the shape of the “S” mint mark.
Type I (Filled S): The “S” looks thick and somewhat blob-like, showing weaker definition.
Type II (Clear S): The mint mark appears crisp and fully open, a result of improved die preparation later in the year.
Value comparison:
Proof Type | Visual Trait | Approx. Value |
Type I | Filled or mushy “S” | $5–$15 |
Type II | Clear and rounded “S” | $40–$80 |
The Type II proof is notably scarcer and popular among collectors building complete Susan B. Anthony dollar proof sets.
Some 1979 SBA dollars display minting errors, which can add both interest and market value.
Common error types include:
Off-Center Strikes: The design is partially missing, leaving blank space on one edge.
Doubled Dies: Raised elements—letters, numbers, or parts of the design—appear doubled.
Die Clashes: Faint outlines or “ghost” impressions from the opposite die can be seen.
Error coins are unpredictable in value, ranging from $50 to several hundred dollars, depending on clarity and eye appeal.
For hobbyists, the 1979 SBA dollar series offers more than historical interest—it’s a lesson in minting precision and design evolution. Learning to identify rim spacing, mint marks, and minor defects helps collectors sharpen observation skills while building a more informed collection.
Evaluating Susan B. Anthony dollars doesn’t require a professional setup — only patience, curiosity, and a few essential tools. With some basic techniques and modern apps, even beginner collectors can identify valuable varieties and organize a reliable home collection.
Start by laying your coins on a soft surface to avoid scratches. Under bright natural or LED light, use a 10x magnifying glass or jeweler’s loupe to study:
Date and rim spacing — to tell Wide Rim from Narrow Rim (1979-P).
Mint mark — visible near the lower right of the portrait.
Surface details — proof coins have mirror-like fields, while circulation coins show wear or faint luster.
Errors — doubled lettering, missing edges, or off-center designs indicate minting flaws that may raise value.
Keep notes for each coin, including its condition and any unique characteristics. This forms the foundation of a personal catalog.
Coin condition determines long-term value. Even small scratches or oxidation can reduce a coin’s grade significantly. To prevent that:
Use 2x2 cardboard holders or acrylic capsules for individual coins.
Avoid PVC-based sleeves — they release acids that damage surfaces.
Handle coins by the edges only — never touch the faces.
Store in a cool, dry place away from humidity and sunlight.
Well-preserved coins retain eye appeal and market value for decades, making storage a key part of the collecting process.
Digital tools simplify identification, especially for subtle differences like rim width or mint mark clarity. The Coin ID Scanner app, available on Android and iOS, is one of the most practical solutions for home collectors.
Key features include:
Photo-based recognition — take or upload a picture to identify your coin instantly.
Comprehensive details — view mint year, mark, edge, weight, metal composition, and real-time market price.
Collection management tools — create folders, tag coins, and track acquisition history.
Database of 187,000+ coins — covering global and U.S. issues.
AI Coin Helper — guides users through grading and authentication basics.
For those just starting out, it’s a simple yet accurate way to confirm Wide vs. Narrow Rim differences or proof types without expensive grading equipment.
Expanding knowledge is as valuable as expanding a collection. Use these trusted references to stay informed:
NGC’s VarietyPlus database for certified varieties and grading definitions.
Coin Identifier’s SBA dollar value guide for real-time price comparisons.
Heritage Auctions and Stack’s Bowers for examples of rare or error coin sales.
Collector forums for shared experience and discussion of finds.
The 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar may not have succeeded in daily commerce, but it thrives as a collectible symbol of American progress. By learning to recognize rim varieties, mint marks, and proof distinctions, hobbyists can transform everyday coins into a rewarding historical study.
Armed with simple tools, protective storage, and digital aids like Coin ID Scanner, anyone can confidently evaluate their SBA dollars from home. Each coin examined strengthens both skill and appreciation — proving that even small discoveries can spark lifelong collecting passion.
