The 1979 Susan B. Anthony (SBA) dollar has experienced a resurgence of interest among collectors in 2025, transforming from a once-overlooked coin into a sought-after collectible.
Once dismissed due to its small size and confusion with quarters, this historic dollar now attracts collectors thanks to low survival rates in high grades, unique varieties, and increasing market demand.
Let’s explore why these coins are becoming collector favorites and how they can be worth far more than face value.
The History Behind the 1979 SBA Dollar
The Susan B. Anthony dollar debuted in 1979 as the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman, honoring the legendary women’s rights activist Susan B. Anthony. It was intended to replace the larger Eisenhower dollar for easier circulation.
However, the coin’s similar size and color to the quarter caused confusion, leading to poor public acceptance. Production dropped sharply after 1981, making the first-year issues especially notable for collectors.
Key specs:
- Designer: Frank Gasparro
- Composition: Copper-nickel clad
- Weight: 8.1 grams
- Diameter: 26.5 mm
- Edge: Reeded
- Mints: Philadelphia (P), Denver (D), San Francisco (S)
Why 1979 SBA Dollars Are Hot in 2025
1. First-Year Issue Appeal
Collectors love “firsts,” and 1979 marks the inaugural year of the SBA series. First-year issues often hold historical significance and are more likely to be preserved in higher grades, boosting value over time.
2. Scarce Varieties and Errors
Several variety types make 1979 SBA dollars stand out:
- 1979-P Wide Rim (Near Date): The date is closer to the rim. Scarcer than the Narrow Rim version.
- 1979-S Type 2 Proof: Features a clear, well-defined mintmark. Much rarer than Type 1.
- Clipped planchets, off-center strikes, and doubling errors: Dramatic mistakes bring strong auction prices.
These varieties have surged in demand in 2025 as collectors compete to complete high-grade sets.
3. Rising Values in High Grades
Most 1979 SBA dollars circulated heavily, so uncirculated and proof examples in pristine condition are scarcer than their mintage numbers suggest. Certified MS67–MS68 pieces have recently sold for $200–$500+, and proof 70s can reach over $1,000.
This price growth has pushed new and seasoned collectors to hunt for top-condition examples while they remain available.
4. Renewed Interest in Women-Themed Coins
Recent U.S. Mint programs honoring historic American women have rekindled interest in earlier female figures on U.S. currency. This has drawn new collectors, especially younger numismatists, to the Susan B. Anthony series as a pioneering milestone.
1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Varieties and Values
| Variety/Type | Key Features | Typical Market Value (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| 1979-P Narrow Rim | Date farther from rim (common) | $1 – $5 |
| 1979-P Wide Rim (Near Date) | Date close to rim (scarce) | $50 – $300+ |
| 1979-D | Standard strike, plentiful | $1 – $10 |
| 1979-S Type 1 Proof | Blurry “S” mintmark (common) | $5 – $20 |
| 1979-S Type 2 Proof | Clear “S” mintmark (scarce) | $100 – $500+ |
| Mint Errors (off-center, etc.) | Dramatic striking errors | $200 – $2,000+ |
Values vary by grade, eye appeal, and certification.
Collecting Tips
- Inspect carefully for the Wide Rim and Type 2 Proof varieties using magnification.
- Weigh and check edges to spot planchet errors or striking issues.
- Get coins graded by professional services to maximize resale value and buyer confidence.
- Store properly to preserve luster, especially for uncirculated examples.
The 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar has transformed from an overlooked coin into a collector favorite in 2025, driven by rising demand, rare varieties, and historic significance. Collectors are racing to secure high-grade and scarce examples before prices climb further.
If you have old SBA dollars tucked away, now may be the perfect time to revisit their potential value—they could be worth far more than a dollar.
FAQs
Are all 1979 SBA dollars valuable?
No. Most are worth face value unless they are rare varieties, high-grade uncirculated, or proof examples.
What is the most valuable 1979 SBA variety?
The 1979-P Wide Rim and 1979-S Type 2 Proof are the most valuable, often fetching hundreds of dollars in top grades.
Why are 1979 SBA dollars popular in 2025?
Because of their first-year status, scarcity in high grades, rare varieties, and renewed interest in women on U.S. coins.
