Hidden Fortune- $4,200 Rare 1999-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar Found In Thrift Store

Hidden Fortune- $4,200 Rare 1999-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar Found In Thrift Store

Imagine walking into a thrift store and buying an ordinary-looking 1999-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar only to later discover it could be worth $4,200. That is exactly the kind of headline making waves in the numismatic world.

While most of these coins are worth just a few dollars, certain rare varieties, errors, and mint conditions have skyrocketed in value, making them highly desirable for collectors.

In this article, we break down the facts, figures, and details behind this coin, explain what makes it valuable, and give you a complete guide to spotting hidden treasures in your own change or collections.

History of the 1999 Susan B. Anthony Dollar

The Susan B. Anthony Dollar was first introduced in 1979 as a tribute to the women’s rights activist. However, the coin was not popular due to its similar size to a quarter. By 1981, production was halted.

In 1999, the U.S. Mint unexpectedly revived the series for one final year, striking coins at Philadelphia (P), Denver (D), and a proof version at Philadelphia (P). This last run was small compared to other dollar coins, making 1999 pieces special to collectors.

Why the Thrift-Store Coin Was Valued at $4,200

The coin found in the thrift store was not just any 1999-P SBA Dollar. The reason it fetched a high price lies in two possible factors:

  1. High-Grade Certified Condition
    • Coins graded MS68 or higher (by PCGS or NGC) can command thousands of dollars because so few survive in flawless condition.
  2. Mint Error – Transitional Planchet
    • Some 1999 SBA coins were mistakenly struck on the golden Sacagawea planchet. These transitional errors are extremely rare and have sold for over $10,000 in auctions.
    • If a thrift-store coin looked golden but had the Susan B. Anthony design, it could explain the $4,200 valuation.

Coin Specifications

Here are the important details every collector should know:

  • Year: 1999
  • Mint Marks: P (Philadelphia), D (Denver), P Proof
  • Composition: Copper-nickel clad (75% copper, 25% nickel over pure copper core)
  • Weight: 8.1 g
  • Diameter: 26.5 mm
  • Mintage (1999-P): 29,592,000
  • Mintage (1999-D): 11,776,000
  • Mintage (1999-P Proof): ~750,000

Value of the 1999-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar

Below is a table showing current value ranges for different categories:

CategoryCondition/TypeTypical ValueNotes
Circulated 1999-PNormal wear$1 – $2Common in pocket change
Uncirculated 1999-PBright, no wear$10 – $30Easily found in rolls
High-Grade MS67–MS68PCGS/NGC certified$1,500 – $2,500+Rare in pristine condition
Proof 1999-PCameo finish$20 – $50Mint sets only
Mint Error – Off-center, Double StrikeMajor error coins$500 – $3,000Depends on severity
Transitional Error (Sacagawea Planchet)Golden SBA Dollar$4,000 – $16,000Extremely rare

How to Identify a Valuable 1999 SBA Dollar

  1. Check the Color
    • If it appears golden instead of silvery, it could be a transitional error.
  2. Look for Striking Errors
    • Off-center designs, double strikes, or broadstrikes add significant value.
  3. Examine the Condition
    • The higher the grade, the higher the price. A coin must be certified by NGC or PCGS to fetch thousands.
  4. Proof vs Business Strike
    • Proofs have a mirror-like surface and were sold in special sets.

Why Collectors Value the 1999-P SBA Dollar

  • Last year of issue before the Sacagawea dollar launched.
  • Lower mintage compared to earlier years.
  • Error coins make it highly collectible.
  • Cultural significance as the only U.S. coin featuring Susan B. Anthony.

The Thrift-Store Connection

Thrift stores often receive bags of coins from donations. Most are common change, but occasionally, rare gems slip through unnoticed. A buyer picking up such a coin for face value and reselling it for $4,200 highlights how valuable knowledge in coin collecting can be.

The story of the 1999-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar found in a thrift store selling for $4,200 is both exciting and educational. While most of these coins are worth only a few dollars, certain high-grade specimens and rare mint errors can bring thousands at auction.

If you come across a 1999 SBA Dollar, don’t dismiss it as ordinary—examine it closely, check for errors, and consider professional grading. The difference between $1 and $4,200 could be hiding in plain sight in your change jar.

FAQs

Are all 1999-P Susan B. Anthony Dollars worth money?

No, most are worth $1–$2. Only coins in very high grades or with rare mint errors are worth hundreds or thousands.

What makes the 1999-P SBA Dollar rare?

Its rarity comes from being the final year of issue, lower mintage, and the possibility of transitional errors struck on Sacagawea planchets.

How can I find out if my coin is valuable?

Check the mint mark, color, and striking details. If it looks unusual or flawless, get it professionally graded for an accurate valuation.


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