Here’s what to look for when examining a 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar coin:
- P (Philadelphia): Philadelphia-minted 1979 SBA dollars bear a “P” mint mark, even though it’s typically omitted on Philadelphia coins.
- D (Denver): Coins from the Denver mint have a “D” mint mark.
- S (San Francisco): These coins have an “S” mint mark.
The most significant factor influencing the value of a 1979 SBA dollar is the rim variety, primarily for coins from the Philadelphia Mint.
- Wide Rim (Near Date):
– The date (1979) appears very close to the rim of the coin, with minimal space between them.
– This variety is scarcer and more valuable, especially in higher uncirculated grades.
– A 1979-P Wide Rim dollar graded MS67+ sold for $6,995 in 2021.
- Narrow Rim (Far Date):
– There’s a noticeable gap between the date and the coin’s rim.
– This variety is more common and generally less valuable.
San Francisco minted proof coins specifically for collectors, and these also have varieties.
- Type 1 (Blob Mint Mark):
– The “S” mint mark appears somewhat indistinct or “blob-like,” as if struck with a worn die.
- Type 2 (Clear Mint Mark):
– The “S” mint mark is sharp, clear, and well-defined.
– This variety is considered rarer and more valuable than Type 1 proofs.
- Uncirculated: Coins showing no wear from circulation, retaining their original luster, are generally more valuable.
- Circulated: Coins showing signs of wear on the surface, especially on the high points of the design, will have less value.
While most 1979 SBA dollars are not particularly rare, some errors or variations in the striking process can significantly increase their value. Look for:
- Clipped Planchets: Missing portions of the coin’s edge due to an error in the blank-cutting process.
- Off-center Strikes: The design is misaligned because the blank wasn’t properly centered during striking.
- Die Adjustment Strikes: Weakly struck areas or missing details caused by incorrect pressure during the striking process.
- Blank Planchets: A coin blank that was never struck with a design.
- Double Strikes: Overlapping designs from the coin being struck more than once.
- Coin Blob Error: Unusual blob-like deformities on the surface, often caused by excessive die wear or debris.
- 1979-S SBA Dollar Coin Blob Mint Mark: A type 1 proof with a blob-like “S” mintmark.
In summary
- The most sought-after variety is the 1979-P Wide Rim (Near Date).
- Proof coins, particularly the 1979-S Type 2 (Clear S) variety, are also more valuable.
- Errors like off-center strikes or double strikes can also greatly enhance a coin’s value.
Keep in mind that the condition of the coin plays a crucial role in determining its overall worth. If you find a coin you believe to be a rare variety or error, consider consulting with a professional coin dealer or grader to verify its authenticity and value.
What is the difference between type 1 and type 2 1979 Susan B. Anthony?
Good point! These “Filled S” (Type 1) Anthony dollar Proofs were due to a worn mint mark punch. Late in the year, the punch was replaced and much scarcer 1979 “Clear S” (Type 2) Proofs were created. Honoring women’s rights activist Susan B.
How do I know if my Susan B Anthony Coin is wide rim?
From my experience, The little gap. Here is close to the one. If I were to get a regular narrow rim coin you’d see if there’s a big space between the one in the rim of the coin. But in our cases.