Have a Susan B. Anthony dollar lying around? 🪙 It could be hiding a big secret — and a value of up to $6,900! Let’s break down the fascinating story of the rare 1979-P “Wide Rim” variety and how you can spot one.
📜 The Story Behind the “Wide Rim” Variety
The Susan B. Anthony dollar was introduced in 1979 as a replacement for the large Eisenhower dollar.
- 🚧 A Rocky Start: The new coin was almost the same size and color as a quarter, which caused a lot of confusion in everyday transactions.
- ✏ A Quick Design Change: Early in production at the Philadelphia Mint (mint mark “P”), some coins were struck with a thicker, wider rim. On these, the date 1979 appears very close to the edge.
- ⚡ A Rare Mistake: The design was quickly changed to a Narrow Rim (or “Far Date”) version, which is the common one today. Because the Wide Rim was only made briefly, it’s much rarer.
💎 Why This Coin Is Worth Nearly $7,000
In 2021, an uncirculated 1979-P Wide Rim sold for $6,995 on eBay — and it’s not just hype.
Why the high value?
- One-year-only variety
- First year of a major U.S. coin series
- Extremely hard to find in pristine condition due to circulation wear
💡 Even circulated examples can sell for $50–$200+ depending on grade!
🔍 How to Spot the “Wide Rim” Dollar — 2 Easy Steps
Step 1 — Check the Date & Mint Mark
- Look for 1979
- Make sure it has a “P” mint mark (left of Susan B. Anthony’s portrait)
Step 2 — Examine the Rim & Date Spacing
- RARE Wide Rim (Near Date): The date “1979” is very close to the rim, almost touching it. The rim looks thick and flat.
- COMMON Narrow Rim (Far Date): There’s a clear gap between the date and rim — you could fit a letter in that space.
💡 Pro Tip: Compare your coin with any later Susan B. Anthony dollar (like 1980 or 1999) — the rim difference will be obvious.
📈 Coin Grades & Value Potential
- Top Value ($6,900+): MS66–MS67 uncirculated
- Circulated Condition: Still worth $50–$200 or more
- Tip: Never clean your coin — it can destroy its value!
✅ What to Do If You Find One
- Handle Carefully: Hold it by the edges to avoid fingerprints.
- Store Safely: Use a 2×2 coin holder or “coin flip.”
- Get It Certified: Submit to PCGS or NGC for authentication and grading. Look for the “FS-101, Wide Rim” label.
🌍 The Hunt Is Global
These coins have been circulating for over 45 years, sometimes mistaken for quarters. They could be anywhere — in a U.S. bank box or even a jar of loose change overseas.
🔎 So go ahead — check your coin jar, pockets, and old piggy banks. Who knows? Your Susan B. Anthony dollar could be a modern-day treasure! 💰
💬 Found one? Share your story in the comments below — you might inspire the next great coin hunt!
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