1979-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar Value Guide

The 1979-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar marks a historic milestone as the first circulating U.S. coin to depict a real woman. Despite its commercial failure due to its similarity in size to the quarter, it remains a popular entry-level collectible for numismatists interested in modern American coinage.

What affects the value of 1979-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar?

• Mint state condition significantly impacts value, as most circulated examples only fetch face value or a very small premium.
• The presence of the 'Wide Rim' (or 'Near Date') variety can increase the coin's market price compared to the common 'Narrow Rim' version.
• Surface preservation and the absence of 'bag marks' or scratches are critical for coins seeking higher numismatic grades.
• Luster and strike quality, particularly on the eagle's feathers on the reverse, influence the desirability for high-end collectors.

How to Identify 1979-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar?

• Look for the 'P' mint mark located on the obverse side just above Susan B. Anthony's shoulder, indicating it was struck in Philadelphia.
• Verify the 1979 date and the 'Narrow Rim' variety, where the date is positioned further from the coin's edge.
• Confirm the composition of 75% copper and 25% nickel clad over a pure copper core, which gives the coin its silver-like appearance.
• Check for the distinctive eleven-sided inner border designed to help distinguish it from the quarter by touch.

History of 1979-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar

First minted in 1979, the Susan B. Anthony dollar was the first circulating U.S. coin to depict a real woman. It was designed to replace the bulky Eisenhower dollar, but its similarity in size and color to the quarter led to widespread public confusion and eventual commercial failure. Most 1979-P versions are common 'Narrow Rim' varieties minted in Philadelphia.