Rare 1999 Susan B. Anthony Dollar: The Story Behind Its $14 Million Value

Imagine coming across an ordinary looking dollar coin only to later discover it is worth millions. That is exactly what happened with a 1999 Susan B. Anthony dollar that stunned the world by selling for an unbelievable 14 million dollars. The coin was discovered in a thrift store donation bin and at first glance looked like any other piece of change. Collectors soon realized it was far from ordinary and that it was one of the rarest finds in modern coin history.

The History of the Susan B. Anthony Dollar

The United States Mint introduced the Susan B. Anthony dollar in 1979. It was the first coin to feature a real woman rather than a symbolic figure. The design honored Susan B. Anthony, the prominent activist who fought tirelessly for women’s rights. The new dollar coin was intended to replace the large Eisenhower dollar and circulate more widely.

However, the coin struggled to gain popularity. Its size and appearance were too similar to the quarter, creating confusion among the public. Production lasted only from 1979 to 1981 before being halted. Nearly two decades later in 1999, the Mint briefly revived the coin to meet the demand of vending machines and transit systems. Most of these coins were spent or saved without much thought, but among them a few extremely rare examples were created.

Why the 1999 Philadelphia Coin Became a Fortune

The specific coin that shocked collectors was a 1999 Susan B. Anthony dollar minted in Philadelphia. Several features made it stand out.

• The strike displayed doubling in the lettering and a slight misalignment, making it a mint error coin.
• It had an unusual proof-like finish even though it was intended for circulation, giving it a bright mirror-like surface.
• The coin was preserved in near perfect condition with no scratches or signs of wear.

These elements combined to make the coin one of a kind. When it was auctioned, collectors battled fiercely to own it, ultimately pushing the price to a jaw-dropping 14 million dollars.

How to Identify a Valuable Susan B. Anthony Dollar

Anyone can start looking for rare varieties of this coin. A few key things to notice include:

• Check the date and mintmark, with special attention to 1999 coins from Philadelphia.
• Look for a reflective proof-like surface, which is unusual for circulation strikes.
• Inspect carefully for minting errors such as doubled letters, off-center designs, or unusual coloration.
• Condition matters most. Coins that remain in mint state are worth significantly more.

Even coins without dramatic errors can be highly valuable. A proof-like 1999 specimen without major flaws has been known to bring several thousand dollars, while the 1979 Wide Rim variety has sold for hundreds of thousands.

What to Do if You Discover One

If you believe you have a rare Susan B. Anthony dollar, do not attempt to clean it. Polishing can destroy its value. Instead, store it safely in a protective case and seek out a professional appraisal. Trusted grading services such as PCGS or NGC can certify authenticity and assign an official grade, both of which are essential for maximizing value.

The safest way to sell a rare coin is through a reputable dealer or auction house. This ensures both authenticity and the highest possible return.

The Ongoing Excitement of Coin Collecting

The sale of this extraordinary 1999 Susan B. Anthony dollar reminds us that valuable treasures can appear in the most unexpected places. A thrift store, a flea market, or even spare change sitting at home might hide a rare discovery.

Though the Susan B. Anthony dollar was not widely loved when it was first issued, its rare varieties now hold a legendary place in modern numismatics. As the 14 million dollar sale proves, one overlooked coin could change a life forever.

Next time a simple dollar coin passes through your hands, take a closer look. It may turn out to be far more valuable than you ever imagined.