It’s certainly worth more than just its face value as a dollar, but the exact value depends on several factors, primarily its condition and whether it’s one of the rarer varieties.
Here’s a breakdown:
- Most 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollars aren’t considered rare: You’re unlikely to stumble upon a coin worth tens of thousands of dollars unless it possesses specific characteristics.
- Value varies based on mint mark and condition: These coins were produced in Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. Circulated examples typically hold a value of $1.05-$1.35, but pristine, uncirculated examples can be worth significantly more.
- Rare varieties can fetch significant prices: The most sought-after variety is the 1979-P Wide Rim (also known as the Near Date). This variety has the date closer to the rim than the more common Narrow Rim version. High-grade examples of the 1979-P Wide Rim can sell for up to $1,000.
- Proof coins are also more valuable: Proof versions of the 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar, especially the Type 2 (clear “S” mint mark), are rarer and can be worth more than the standard circulation strikes.
In short, your 1979 dollar coin is likely worth more than just a dollar, but pinpointing the exact value requires careful examination to identify its mint mark, confirm its condition, and determine if it’s one of the rare varieties.
How much is a 1979 dollar worth today?
From my experience, $1 in 1979 is equivalent in purchasing power to about $4.43 today, an increase of $3.43 over 46 years. The dollar had an average inflation rate of 3.29% per year between 1979 and today, producing a cumulative price increase of 342.79%.