A Pennsylvania coin collector recently turned a forgotten piece of change into a $25,000 windfall after selling a 1979-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar with the rare Wide Rim variant.
Found in a box of old coins passed down from a relative, this small silver-colored dollar is now making big headlines. Many Americans are now checking their own coins in hopes of finding this valuable piece of U.S. history.
Why the Wide Rim Variant Is Special
The Susan B. Anthony Dollar was minted between 1979–1981 and briefly in 1999, making it a short-lived series. It holds historical importance as the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman, honoring the legendary women’s rights activist Susan B. Anthony.
The 1979-P Wide Rim (also called Near Date) variant happened early in the minting process at the Philadelphia Mint.
Here’s what makes it unique:
- Closer Date – The year “1979” sits noticeably closer to the rim.
- Thicker Rim – The rim is wider than the standard coin.
- Low Mintage – Only a small number were made before the design was changed.
Because of these features, collectors are willing to pay thousands of dollars for one in uncirculated or mint condition.
Recent $25,000 Sale Sparks National Interest
The recent $25,000 auction was for a coin graded MS67 (Mint State) by a professional grading service. This exceptional grade meant the coin was in perfect, untouched condition.
Since the news broke, social media has exploded with coin hunting videos, and people are now digging into change jars, wallets, and bank rolls looking for their own treasures.
The Susan B. Anthony Dollar is often mistaken for a quarter because of its size and color, so it’s easy to overlook. But with stories of these coins being found in vending machines and old coin collections, the hunt is on.
How to Identify the 1979-P Wide Rim Dollar
If you think you might have one, check for these features:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Date | 1979, placed close to the rim |
| Rim | Thicker than standard coins |
| Mint Mark | “P” (Philadelphia Mint) near the date |
| Value | Up to $25,000 in top condition |
Why Condition Matters
A coin’s value can change dramatically based on its condition:
- Circulated coins (used in everyday transactions) may fetch $20–$200.
- Uncirculated coins in near-perfect condition can be worth $1,000–$25,000.
- Coins graded MS67 or higher are extremely rare and can command premium prices.
Tip: Never clean a coin — it can reduce its value. Always have it checked by a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC.
Other Valuable Susan B. Anthony Coins
The 1979 Wide Rim isn’t the only Susan B. Anthony coin worth money. Other valuable varieties include:
| Coin Type | Potential Value |
|---|---|
| 1979-P Wide Rim | Up to $25,000 |
| 1979 Blob Mint Mark | Up to $10,000 |
| 1981 Double Die | Up to $880,000 |
Beginner Tips for Coin Collectors
If you’re new to coin hunting, here’s how to start:
- Check your change for unusual coins.
- Ask banks for rolls of dollar coins to search.
- Look through family coin collections.
- Join coin collecting forums and clubs to learn from experts.
- Keep a magnifying glass handy for spotting details.
The story of the $25,000 Susan B. Anthony Dollar shows that valuable treasures can be hiding in plain sight.
With its unique Wide Rim design, low mintage, and historical significance, this small coin has captured the attention of collectors and everyday people alike.
Whether in a piggy bank, wallet, or old coin album, your next rare find might be closer than you think. Start looking — the next $25,000 discovery could be yours.
FAQs
How many 1979 Wide Rim Susan B. Anthony Dollars exist?
Exact numbers are unknown, but they are considered rare because only a small batch was made before the design change.
Can I find these coins in circulation today?
Yes, though rare, they sometimes appear in change, bank rolls, or old coin collections.
Do I need to grade my coin to sell it?
For maximum value, grading from a service like PCGS or NGC is highly recommended.