The 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar coin holds a unique place in American numismatic history. Often dubbed the “SBA dollar,” it was the United States’ first small-sized dollar coin and the first to feature a real woman, Susan B. Anthony, a pioneer in the women’s suffrage movement. While millions of these coins were minted, leading many to believe they hold little value, certain varieties and anomalies can significantly increase their desirability and monetary worth. Understanding what makes a 1979 dollar coin rare requires a closer look at specific minting characteristics, errors, and overall condition.
The Genesis of the Susan B. Anthony Dollar
The Susan B. Anthony dollar was introduced to replace the cumbersome Eisenhower dollar, which had proven unpopular due to its large size. The new, smaller dollar coin was intended to circulate widely, akin to how dollar coins are used in many other countries. However, its similar size and reeded edge to the quarter dollar led to widespread public confusion and rejection. Despite its initial failure in circulation, the 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar remains a fascinating coin for collectors, particularly those seeking out its rarer variants.
The Elusive 1979-P Wide Rim (Near Date) Variety
When discussing what makes a 1979 dollar coin rare, the 1979-P Wide Rim variety immediately comes to mind. This is arguably the most sought-after and well-known variant within the 1979 mintage.
Understanding the “Wide Rim” Distinction
The “P” mint mark indicates that the coin was produced at the Philadelphia Mint. In 1979, the Philadelphia Mint produced two distinct versions of the coin’s obverse die, resulting in variations in the coin’s rim.
- Narrow Rim: This is the more common variety. On these coins, the date “1979” appears further away from the coin’s outer edge, closer to Susan B. Anthony’s bust. The rim itself appears relatively thin.
- Wide Rim (Near Date): This is the scarcer and more valuable variety. On Wide Rim coins, the date “1979” is noticeably closer to the coin’s rim, sometimes appearing almost to touch it. The rim itself appears thicker and more pronounced, giving the coin a more substantial edge.
The difference, though subtle, is crucial for collectors. The Wide Rim variety was an unintended consequence of die adjustments made during the early stages of production. These dies were quickly replaced, making the Wide Rim coins a limited production run.
Identifying the 1979-P Wide Rim
To identify a 1979-P Wide Rim coin, carefully examine the spacing between the date “1979” and the coin’s rim. On the Wide Rim variety, the “9” in “1979” will be very close to the rim, sometimes even appearing to be partially under it, as if the date was “pushed” outwards. The rim itself will look thicker than on the common Narrow Rim version. Using a magnifying glass can greatly assist in this identification process.
Value of the 1979-P Wide Rim
The value of a 1979-P Wide Rim coin is heavily dependent on its condition. Uncirculated examples, particularly those graded MS-65 or higher, can fetch significant prices at auction or from dealers. Even circulated examples of the Wide Rim can command a premium over their face value, unlike their common Narrow Rim counterparts. This specific variety is a prime example of what makes a 1979 dollar coin rare and valuable to numismatists.
Minting Errors: Unintentional Rarity
Beyond specific varieties like the Wide Rim, various minting errors can transform an ordinary 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar into a highly collectible and valuable piece. These errors occur during the coin production process, from the initial blanking of the planchet to the final strike. The more dramatic or unusual the error, the more desirable the coin often becomes. Here’s a breakdown of common and rare errors that contribute to what makes a 1979 dollar coin rare:
Types of Minting Errors
- Off-Center Strikes: This occurs when the coin blank (planchet) is not perfectly centered when the dies strike it. The resulting coin will have part of its design missing on one side and an un-struck blank area on the opposite side. The degree of off-centerness determines the value, with more severely off-center strikes (while still showing enough of the date and mint mark to be identifiable) being more desirable.
- Double Strikes: As the name suggests, a double-struck coin is struck more than once by the dies. This can result in overlapping designs, ghosting effects, or a noticeably thicker appearance to certain elements. If the coin is struck multiple times without exiting the collar die, it’s considered a “multiple strike.”
- Clipped Planchets: These errors occur when the metal strip from which coin blanks are punched is improperly fed or aligns incorrectly, leading to a coin blank with a missing or “clipped” portion of its edge. The clipped area will typically be crescent-shaped.
- Die Adjustment Strikes: Sometimes referred to as “weak strikes,” these coins result from insufficient pressure being applied by the striking dies. The design elements appear faint, incomplete, or lacking full detail. While often seen as less desirable than other errors, significant die adjustment strikes can still be collectible.
- Blank Planchets: These are coin blanks that have gone through the initial blanking and sometimes the upsetting mill (which creates the raised rim) but have completely missed the striking process. They are essentially un-struck coins. While not a “coin” in the traditional sense, they are collected as mint errors.
- Gas Bubbles: These are less common but can occur in the coin’s metal due to impurities or trapped gases during the melting and rolling process. They appear as small, raised bubbles or blisters on the coin’s surface.
- “Coin Blob” Error: This term is often used to describe coins with significant deformities, usually caused by excessive die wear, foreign debris on the die, or a combination of factors leading to a distorted or “blob-like” appearance in certain areas of the design. These are often unique and highly sought after by error collectors.
- Lamination Errors: These occur when impurities or gas pockets within the metal strip cause layers of metal to peel away from the coin’s surface after striking.
- Die Cuds: A die cud is a raised, irregular blob of metal on the coin’s surface that results from a piece of the die breaking off. These are typically found on the edge of the coin and extend into the design.
- Broadstrikes: A broadstrike occurs when the collar die (which holds the planchet in place during striking and forms the reeded edge) is absent or fails to function correctly. The coin is struck without the restraint of the collar, causing the metal to spread outwards, resulting in a larger diameter coin with a flat, unreeded edge.
The presence and severity of any of these errors significantly impacts what makes a 1979 dollar coin rare and valuable. Collectors specializing in error coins actively seek out these unique anomalies.
The Paramount Importance of Condition
Regardless of variety or error, the condition of a coin is always a primary determinant of its value. This is especially true for coins like the 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar, where millions were produced.
Understanding Coin Grading
Coin grading is a standardized system used to assess a coin’s physical state. Grades range from Poor (P) to Perfect Mint State (MS-70).
- Uncirculated (Mint State – MS): Coins that have never been used in commerce and retain their original mint luster. They show no signs of wear. Within the MS category, grades like MS-65 (Gem Uncirculated) or MS-67 (Superb Gem Uncirculated) indicate higher levels of preservation, with minimal bag marks or imperfections.
- Proof (PR/PF): These are special coins struck for collectors using polished planchets and dies, often multiple times, to produce a sharp, mirror-like finish. 1979 Susan B. Anthony proof coins were minted in San Francisco.
- Circulated Grades: Coins that have been used in everyday transactions. They show varying degrees of wear, from slight abrasions on high points (About Uncirculated – AU) to significant loss of detail and luster (Good – G, Very Good – VG, Fine – F, Very Fine – VF, Extremely Fine – XF).
How Condition Affects Value
An uncirculated 1979-P Wide Rim will be significantly more valuable than a circulated one, even if both are the Wide Rim variety. Similarly, an error coin in higher grades will command a higher price than a similar error coin that is heavily worn. Signs of wear such as faded luster, scratches, dents, rim damage, or cleaning (which permanently damages a coin’s surface) drastically reduce a coin’s value. Collectors and dealers primarily seek out coins in the best possible condition, making preservation a key factor in what makes a 1979 dollar coin rare and worth collecting.
Specific Mint Marks and Scarcer Issues
While the 1979-P Wide Rim is the star, other mint marks and specific issues can also contribute to the rarity and value of 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollars.
The 1979-P (Philadelphia)
As discussed, the vast majority of 1979-P coins are common Narrow Rim varieties. However, the 1979-P Wide Rim is the significant exception and the primary reason what makes a 1979 dollar coin rare often points to the Philadelphia mint.
The 1979-D (Denver)
Coins bearing the “D” mint mark were produced at the Denver Mint. While the Denver Mint did not produce a Wide Rim variety for the 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar, coins from this mint can still be valuable if they possess significant minting errors or are found in exceptionally high, uncirculated grades (MS-67 or higher), as fewer high-grade examples tend to survive from Denver’s general circulation output compared to Philadelphia.
The 1979-S (San Francisco)
The “S” mint mark indicates production at the San Francisco Mint. The San Francisco Mint primarily produced proof coins for collectors, though some business strike (circulation strike) coins were also minted there.
- 1979-S Business Strikes: While less common than P or D mintages, 1979-S business strikes are not inherently rare. Their value primarily comes from their condition, with high-grade uncirculated examples being more desirable.
- 1979-S Proof Coins: The San Francisco Mint produced two distinct types of proof coins in 1979:
* 1979-S Type 1 (Filled S): Early proof dies had a “filled” or “blob-like” appearance to the “S” mint mark due to die deterioration. These are less desirable than the Type 2.
* 1979-S Type 2 (Clear S): Later in the year, the “S” mint mark was recut, resulting in a much sharper, clearer “S.” This 1979-S Type 2 Clear S Proof is significantly more sought after by collectors and represents another key factor in what makes a 1979 dollar coin rare in the proof category. These coins exhibit a deep mirror-like finish and frosted devices, indicative of proof quality.
Collectors often look for complete proof sets from 1979, with the 1979-S Type 2 being a highlight.
Conclusion: The Nuances of Rarity
In conclusion, while the vast majority of 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollars are not considered rare or highly valuable, specific characteristics elevate certain coins to collector status. The primary factor in what makes a 1979 dollar coin rare is undoubtedly the 1979-P Wide Rim (Near Date) variety, which commands significant premiums in uncirculated conditions. Beyond this, any distinct minting errors – from off-center strikes to clipped planchets – can transform a common coin into a unique and sought-after anomaly. Finally, the overall condition of the coin is paramount; uncirculated specimens, particularly those with high numerical grades, will always be more valuable than their circulated counterparts.
For aspiring collectors, it’s crucial to examine 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollars carefully, paying close attention to the rim, the date’s proximity to the rim, and any unusual features that might indicate a minting error. While finding a true rarity might be a challenge, the thrill of the hunt and the detailed study of these fascinating coins make the pursuit of what makes a 1979 dollar coin rare a rewarding endeavor.
What is the error on a 1979 dollar coin?
So what’s the value of a 1979 Susan B anthony dollar with the large date.
How to identify rare Susan B. Anthony?
Great question! Mint mark “S” (indicates it was made at the San Francisco Mint)
Shiny, mirror-like finish with deep contrast.
No scratches or marks.
Sharp details in Susan B. Anthony’s portrait and the eagle on the back.