A U.S. dollar coin’s value can vary significantly based on its type, condition, and whether it has any rare errors.
Here’s a breakdown
- Many modern dollar coins, such as the Sacagawea, Presidential, and Native American series, are only worth their face value ($1) in circulated condition.
- Older silver dollars (pre-1935) contain 90% silver and have a melt value tied to the current price of silver.
- Common date silver dollars typically trade for $35-$45 or more, even in average condition, due to their silver content and numismatic premiums.
- Some dollar coins, particularly those with errors or specific key dates, can be worth significantly more:
– [“Cheerios” Sacagawea dollars (2000-P)]: Some early strikes distributed in Cheerios boxes have enhanced tail feather details and are highly sought after by collectors, with values ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 or more.
– 2000-P Sacagawea dollars with the quarter-dollar obverse: These rare “mules” were accidentally struck with the obverse of a U.S. quarter instead of the Sacagawea design. Only 18 are known, and one sold for $102,000 at auction.
– 1979-P Wide Rim Susan B. Anthony dollars: This variety has a wider rim than usual and is worth $50-$100 or more in uncirculated condition.
– Presidential dollars with missing edge lettering: These error coins lack the date, mint mark, and “E Pluribus Unum” inscription on the edge and can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars depending on the specific president and condition.
- Date and Mint Mark: Certain years or mint locations can be rarer than others.
- Condition: Coins in better condition (uncirculated or proof) generally command higher prices.
- Rarity: Low mintage numbers or specific varieties can significantly increase value.
- Errors: Unique minting mistakes like doubled dies, missing edge lettering, or being struck on the wrong planchet can create highly valuable coins.
While most dollar coins you encounter will be worth just their face value, it’s worth checking for rare dates, varieties, or potential errors, as some can be quite valuable to collectors. If you have a dollar coin that seems unusual, consider consulting a coin expert or a reputable coin value guide to determine its potential worth.
How much is a 1979 $1 dollar coin worth today?
Thanks for asking. According to the NGC Price Guide, as of August 2025, a Susan B Anthony Coin from 1979 in circulated condition is worth between $1.05 and $1.35. However, on the open market 1979 P Silver Dollars in pristine, uncirculated condition sell for as much as $1450.