The value of a 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar coin can vary significantly depending on several factors, including its condition, mint mark, and whether it has any errors or special varieties.
Here’s a breakdown:
- Circulated Condition: Most 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar coins found in circulation are worth around face value, or slightly more. Some sources suggest a value between $1.05 and $1.35 for circulated coins.
- Uncirculated Condition: If the coin is in uncirculated, pristine condition (mint state, MS), its value can be higher. Estimated values for uncirculated coins can range from $2 to $1,450, according to the [NGC Price Guide].
- Mint Mark:
– “P” (Philadelphia Mint): Coins from the Philadelphia Mint can be more valuable than those from Denver. The 1979-P “Wide Rim” (also known as “Near Date”) variety is particularly sought after by collectors, with estimated values of up to $1,900 for high-grade uncirculated coins. In this variety, the date appears closer to the rim compared to the more common “Narrow Rim” or “Far Date” variety. [Coin ID Scanner notes] that a Philadelphia Mint-struck coin with an MS67+ grade (Wide Rim) was sold for $6,995 in 2021.
– “D” (Denver Mint): Coins with the “D” mint mark are more common and generally have a lower value compared to those from Philadelphia or San Francisco. However, high-grade uncirculated specimens (MS67 or higher) can still be valuable, especially if they have exceptional luster and sharp strikes. [NGC states] that on the open market, pristine, uncirculated 1979-D Silver Dollars sell for as much as $1,950.
– “S” (San Francisco Mint): San Francisco also produced regular-strike coins, and while lower-grade examples are common, high-grade uncirculated pieces with strong strikes can be valuable.
- Proof Coins:
– Proof coins, minted in San Francisco, were specifically made for collectors and exhibit a mirrored finish.
– 1979-S Proof Type 1 (“Blob” Mint Mark): This variety, resulting from a worn punch, is more common and less valuable than the Type 2. Values typically range from $8 to $12.
– 1979-S Proof Type 2 (“Clear” Mint Mark): This rarer variety has a clearer and sharper “S” mint mark, which can be identified with a magnifier. These can fetch higher prices, with typical values ranging from $50 to $80.
- Errors and Varieties: Certain minting errors can significantly increase the value of a 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar. Some examples include:
– Wide Rim (Near Date): As mentioned above, this variety, particularly from the Philadelphia Mint, is considered scarcer and can be quite valuable in higher grades.
– “Blob” Mint Mark: Found on the 1979-S Proof Type 1 coins, this error occurs when the mint mark is poorly defined.
– Off-Center Strikes: When the coin’s design is misaligned.
– Clipped Planchets: When part of the coin’s edge is missing due to an improperly cut blank.
– “Struck Through Grease”: Occurs when debris on the die causes parts of the design to appear weak or missing.
– A rare example is a 1979 P Susan B Anthony dollar struck on a nickel planchet which sold for $15,275 at Heritage Auctions.
In conclusion, while most 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar coins are not exceptionally valuable, certain variations, particularly those in high-grade uncirculated condition or with specific errors, can be worth significantly more than face value.
How much is 1 dollar in 1979 worth today?
Thanks for asking. $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%.