Are you curious about the 1979 dollar coin value? The 1979 Susan B. Anthony (SBA) dollar coin, a piece of American history minted by the US Mint, holds a special place for coin collectors and history enthusiasts alike. At HOW.EDU.VN, we’ll help you determine the value of your 1979 dollar coin, considering key factors such as its condition, mint mark, and any potential errors. Knowing these elements can help you assess the worth of your coin and understand its significance. We’ll explore Susan B. Anthony dollar values, rare coin values, and coin collecting insights.
1. Who Was Susan B. Anthony and Why Was the Dollar Coin Created?
Susan B. Anthony was a pivotal figure in United States history, particularly during the Civil War era. A staunch advocate for women’s rights and social reform, she played a crucial role in the fight for women’s suffrage. Her dedication to social justice and her efforts against slavery earned her a lasting legacy in the hearts of Americans.
The concept behind the 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar coin was to introduce a new denomination featuring notable American designs, possibly including the American eagle. However, congressional representatives insisted on portraying a real woman on the coin. This decision led President Jimmy Carter to approve the minting of a one-dollar coin honoring Susan B. Anthony.
The government’s intention was for this coin to circulate widely within the United States. Unfortunately, the coin was often mistaken for a quarter dollar, and vending machines required adjustments to accept it. These challenges, combined with decreasing demand, eventually led to the cessation of dollar coin production.
The Susan B. Anthony dollar coin was reintroduced in 1999 due to the insufficient minting capacity for the proposed Sacagawea gold dollar coin. Once the demand was met, production of the SBA dollar coins was completely halted.
After being minted for only four years, these coins have become increasingly rare, making them attractive for investment and collection. While common SBA dollar coins exist, the 1979 dollar coin is particularly sought after and will be discussed further.
2. What Are the Specifications of the Susan B. Anthony Dollar Coin?
Understanding the specifications of the Susan B. Anthony dollar coin is essential for collectors and enthusiasts alike. These details provide insight into the coin’s physical characteristics and composition.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Face Value | 1 U.S. Dollar |
| Mass | 8.1 g (0.260 troy oz) |
| Diameter | 26.5 mm (1.04 in) |
| Thickness | 2.00 mm (0.08 in) |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel, clad to pure copper core |
| Years of Minting | 1979–1981, 1999 |
3. What Is the Design of the Susan B. Anthony Dollar Coin?
The design of the Susan B. Anthony dollar coin is credited to Frank Gasparro, the Chief Engraver of the US Mint. This coin marked the first time a real woman was featured on the obverse, along with the designer’s initials and mint mark. This design was a significant departure from previous coins, making it a notable piece of American coinage. The obverse of the coin features a portrait of Susan B. Anthony, while the reverse depicts an eagle landing on the moon, a tribute to the Apollo 11 mission. This unique combination of historical figure and iconic event makes the coin particularly appealing to collectors.
4. How Do Mint Marks Affect the 1979 Dollar Coin Value?
The 1979 Susan B. Anthony (SBA) dollar coin, commonly known as the 1979 Dollar coin, was produced at three US Mint facilities: Denver, Philadelphia, and San Francisco. The mint marks significantly influence the value of the 1979 SBA Dollar coin. Mint marks can indicate the rarity and condition of the coin, which directly impacts its market value. Coins from certain mints, especially those with errors or unique features, are highly sought after by collectors.
4.1. Denver Mint (D)
SBA dollar coins produced in Denver (D) are the most commonly found in the market. Due to their high mintage and accessibility, these coins are generally less valuable. However, coins in uncirculated and pristine condition can fetch a high price.
4.2. Philadelphia Mint (P)
Coins struck in Philadelphia typically lack a mint mark, but the 1979 SBA dollars from this mint bear the “P” mint mark. These coins are considerably more valuable than those produced in Denver. Depending on the condition and quality, Philadelphia coins can be priced anywhere from $20 to $10,000.
4.3. San Francisco Mint (S)
Similar to Philadelphia-struck coins, the 1979 Dollar coins with the “S” mint mark are more valuable. Coins struck in San Francisco had several errors and varieties, resulting in the highest values. These coins can range from $28 to $4,850, depending on condition, errors, and strike quality.
5. What Errors and Varieties Affect the 1979 Dollar Coin Value?
The value of a 1979 dollar coin can vary significantly based on the presence of errors and specific varieties. Collectors often seek out these unique pieces, making them more valuable than standard coins. Understanding these variations can help you accurately assess the worth of your coin.
5.1. 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Regular Strike
The 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Regular Strike is the most common variant, easily accessible to collectors. Composed of .75 copper and .25 nickel, these coins bear mint marks from Denver (D), Philadelphia (P), and San Francisco (S).
In 2021, a Philadelphia Mint-struck coin with an MS67+ grade was listed on eBay for $6,995. A Denver Mint specimen sold for $1,528 in 2017, and a San Francisco NGC-certified coin sold for $15,000 in 2021.
5.2. 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Regular Strike (Wide Rim Variety)
In 1979, a slight design modification resulted in a wide-rim variant, replacing the standard narrow rim. The wide-rim variant is more valuable due to its relative scarcity.
5.3. 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Proof Coins (Type 1 Variety)
The 1979 dollar coins were produced with a proof finish during their four years of coinage. These coins are rarer, which significantly influences their value. Depending on their condition, these historic coins can range from $5 to $175 or more.
5.4. 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Proof Coins Type 2 Variety
San Francisco (S) minted 1979 Dollar coins with a proof finish that include two variants. Type 1 has a filled mint mark, while Type 2 has a clear mint mark. Grading services price these coins around $47 for Type 1 and $175 for Type 2.
5.5. 1979-S Susan B. Anthony Dollar Proof Type 1, “Blob” Error Coin
These “S” mint mark proof coins were pressed by hand with a worn punch, resulting in a mint mark that resembles a blob rather than a clear “S.”
The 1979-S SBA Dollar coin blob mint mark issue was resolved by crafting a new punch, leading to the Type 2 variant with a clear “S.” These coins are typically worth around $100.
6. What Is the Comprehensive Table for the 1979 Dollar Coin Value?
When determining the 1979 dollar coin value, it’s essential to understand the retail prices involved in buying and selling. The “buy price” is what you pay to acquire the coin from a dealer, while the “sell price” is what you receive when selling the coin to a dealer. This table elaborates on the retail prices of the SBA Dollar coins across all four years of mintage. The prices include the coin variants, mint marks, and year of issue, which significantly impact the 1979 dollar coin value, as well as proof coins. Prices are excluded based on coin grades.
| Date & Mint | Circ. Buy | Circ. Sell | Unc. Buy | Unc. Sell |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1979-P | $2.00 | $1.05 | $3.00 | $2.20 |
| 1979-P Wide Rim | $10.00 | $6.00 | $30.00 | $22.00 |
| 1979-D | $2.00 | $1.05 | $2.50 | $2.00 |
| 1979-S | $2.00 | $1.10 | $2.50 | $2.00 |
| 1979-S Type 1 Proof | – | – | $8.00 | $6.30 |
| 1979-S Type 2 Proof * | – | – | $69.00 | $52.00 |
| 1980-P | $2.00 | $1.10 | $2.50 | $2.00 |
| 1980-D | $2.00 | $1.10 | $2.50 | $1.90 |
| 1980-S | $2.00 | $1.10 | $2.50 | $1.90 |
| 1980-S Proof | – | – | $5.00 | $3.00 |
| 1981-P | $2.00 | $1.10 | $4.50 | $3.50 |
| 1981-D | $2.00 | $1.10 | $4.90 | $3.70 |
| 1981-S | $2.00 | $1.10 | $5.20 | $3.70 |
| 1981-S Type 1 Proof | – | – | $7.00 | $5.00 |
| 1981-S Type 2 Proof * | – | – | $200.00 | $175.00 |
| 1999-P | $2.00 | $1.10 | $3.00 | $1.50 |
| 1999-D | $2.00 | $1.10 | $3.00 | $1.50 |
| 1999-P Proof | – | – | $20.00 | $16.50 |
| Complete Date-Mint Set Total Coins: 11 | $20.00 | $15.00 | $60.00 | $45.00 |
| Complete Date-Mint Set With Proof and Varieties Total Coins: 18 | – | – | $350.00 | $300.00 |
| Complete Date Set Total Coins: 4 | $8.00 | $4.00 | $15.00 | $10.00 |
7. What Factors Influence the 1979 Dollar Coin Value?
Several key factors affect the value of a 1979 dollar coin. Understanding these elements is essential for collectors and enthusiasts looking to assess the worth of their coins accurately. The metal composition, mint mark, condition, and any existing errors all play a significant role in determining the value of the coin. By carefully evaluating these aspects, you can better understand the potential worth of your 1979 dollar coin.
7.1. Metal Composition
The metal composition of the coin impacts its inherent value. The Susan B. Anthony dollar coin is made of 75% copper and 25% nickel, clad to a pure copper core. The coin’s intrinsic metal value is relatively low compared to its numismatic value, which is influenced by factors such as rarity, condition, and historical significance.
7.2. Mint Mark
The mint mark on the coin, indicating where it was produced (Denver, Philadelphia, or San Francisco), significantly influences its value. Coins from certain mints, particularly those with errors or unique features, are highly sought after by collectors. As previously mentioned, coins from San Francisco (S) and Philadelphia (P) tend to be more valuable than those from Denver (D).
7.3. Condition (Grade)
The condition of the coin is a critical factor in determining its value. Coins are graded on a scale, typically from Poor (PR) to Mint State (MS). Coins in better condition, such as those graded as MS65 or higher, can fetch significantly higher prices than circulated or worn coins. The absence of scratches, dents, or other imperfections enhances the coin’s appeal and value.
7.4. Errors and Varieties
Errors and varieties, such as the wide rim variety or the “blob” error coin, can greatly increase the coin’s value. These unique characteristics make the coin more desirable to collectors, who are willing to pay a premium for them.
8. Why Is the Susan B. Anthony Dollar Coin Significant for Collectors?
For collectors and history enthusiasts, the Susan B. Anthony Dollar is more than just a coin; it symbolizes progress and development. Its unique design and historical significance make it a valuable addition to any collection. The SBA dollar coin represents a pivotal moment in American history, commemorating a key figure in the women’s rights movement. Its relative rarity, especially for certain mint marks and error coins, further enhances its collector’s value.
9. What Final Factors Determine the 1979 Dollar Coin Value?
Ultimately, the 1979 dollar coin value depends on its condition, grade, metal content, and rarity, which are sometimes affected by errors, varieties, and mint marks. Collectors are always on the lookout for coins that are in excellent condition or possess unique characteristics that set them apart. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions about buying, selling, or simply appreciating the Susan B. Anthony Dollar coin.
10. Seeking Expert Advice on Coin Values?
Determining the exact value of your 1979 dollar coin can be challenging without expert knowledge. Various factors, such as mint marks, condition, and potential errors, significantly influence its worth. Consulting with a professional numismatist ensures an accurate assessment, helping you understand your coin’s true value and potential.
Are you facing difficulties in accurately appraising your coin collection? Do you need expert guidance to navigate the complexities of numismatic values? At HOW.EDU.VN, we connect you with leading experts, including over 100 Ph.D. holders, who provide personalized consultations to address your specific needs.
10.1. Benefits of Consulting Our Experts:
- Accurate Appraisals: Gain precise valuations of your 1979 dollar coin and other collectibles.
- Informed Decisions: Make confident buying and selling decisions with professional insights.
- Personalized Advice: Receive tailored guidance based on your collection’s unique attributes.
10.2. Ready to Get Started?
Don’t let uncertainty cloud your coin collecting journey. Contact us today for expert advice and unlock the true potential of your collection.
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Connect with our team of distinguished Ph.D. experts at HOW.EDU.VN and take the first step towards maximizing the value of your collectibles.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About 1979 Dollar Coin Value
1. What is the face value of a 1979 dollar coin?
The face value of a 1979 dollar coin is one U.S. dollar.
2. What is the metal composition of a 1979 dollar coin?
The 1979 dollar coin is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel, clad to a pure copper core.
3. Where was the 1979 dollar coin minted?
The 1979 dollar coin was minted in three facilities of the U.S. Mint: Denver, Philadelphia, and San Francisco.
4. How do mint marks affect the value of a 1979 dollar coin?
Mint marks significantly influence the value of the coin. Coins from San Francisco (S) and Philadelphia (P) tend to be more valuable than those from Denver (D).
5. What is the wide rim variety of the 1979 dollar coin?
The wide rim variety is a design modification that resulted in a wider rim on the coin. This variety is scarcer and more valuable than the regular strike.
6. What is a 1979-S Susan B. Anthony dollar proof type 1 “blob” error coin?
This error coin has a mint mark that resembles a blob rather than a clear “S.” These coins are worth around $100.
7. What is the best way to determine the value of my 1979 dollar coin?
Consulting with a professional numismatist ensures an accurate assessment. Factors such as mint marks, condition, and potential errors significantly influence its worth.
8. How does the condition of the coin affect its value?
The condition of the coin is critical in determining its value. Coins in better condition, such as those graded as MS65 or higher, can fetch significantly higher prices.
9. Are there any other factors that affect the value of a 1979 dollar coin?
Yes, the rarity, metal content, and overall demand from collectors also influence the coin’s value.
10. Where can I find expert advice on coin values?
You can find expert advice on coin values at how.edu.vn, where you can connect with leading experts, including over 100 Ph.D. holders, who provide personalized consultations.
