What to know about the 1981 Susan B Anthony dollar
The Susan B Anthony dollar was struck in several years and remains a common coin in many collections and pocket change. Reports have circulated that a rare 1981 Susan B Anthony dollar could command unusually high prices, including figures up to 880000 for extremely rare varieties or error coins.
This guide explains why most 1981 coins are ordinary, how to spot potentially valuable examples, and what to do if you find one in your change.
Why a 1981 Susan B Anthony dollar could be valuable
Most 1981 Susan B Anthony dollars are worth face value or a small premium to collectors. A high price like 880000 would apply only to a coin with very rare characteristics.
Valuable reasons include:
- Major mint errors such as severe off-center strikes, wrong planchets, or dramatic double dies.
- Unique patterns, trial strikes, or coins with documented provenance and rarity.
- Exceptionally high certified grades (MS70 or PF70) when multiple grading services confirm perfection.
Common vs rare 1981 Susan B Anthony dollar varieties
Knowing the common varieties helps you quickly dismiss ordinary examples. Most 1981 coins were produced in typical circulation strikes or proofs and are plentiful.
Rare varieties include extreme mint errors or documented one-of-a-kind pieces. Those attract specialist collectors and sometimes very high auction bids.
How to check your change for a 1981 Susan B Anthony dollar
Checking pocket change takes only a few minutes. Follow these practical steps to spot a collectible coin.
- Look at the date. If it reads 1981, set it aside for closer inspection.
- Check the mint mark under the date or on the reverse; typical marks are P, D, or S.
- Examine the coin for obvious errors: off-center strikes, missing devices, or wrong metal color.
- Use a magnifier to look for doubling on the date or lettering and for unusual die cracks.
Quick checklist when you find a 1981 SBA dollar:
- Date: 1981
- Mint mark: look for P, D, or S
- Condition: scratches, wear, luster
- Obvious error: off-center, clipped planchet, or double die
How experts determine value
Coin value depends on rarity, condition, and market demand. Grading services like PCGS and NGC verify condition and authenticity.
Important factors graders and buyers consider:
- Grade (MS or PF numbers, with MS70/PF70 highest).
- Type and severity of error or variety.
- Provenance and documentation of the coin.
When to get a coin graded
If your 1981 coin shows a serious error or looks nearly perfect, consider professional grading. Grading provides buyer confidence and often increases market value.
Steps to grade a coin:
- Research similar auction sales to set expectations.
- Submit the coin to a trusted grading service like PCGS or NGC.
- Keep original packaging and any documentation for provenance.
The Susan B Anthony dollar was the first small-sized U.S. dollar coin since the 1930s. Many modern-day finds are ordinary, but mint errors and proof varieties still excite collectors.
Real-world example: a find and sale
Case study: A collector in the Midwest found a 1981 Susan B Anthony dollar while counting a roll of mixed coins. At first glance it looked ordinary, but the collector noticed heavy doubling on the date.
After photographing the coin and researching similar examples, the finder sent it to a grading service. The coin was confirmed as a notable doubled-die variety and sold at auction for a four-figure amount. This example shows careful inspection and verification can turn a moment in pocket change into real value.
Where to sell a valuable 1981 Susan B Anthony dollar
Depending on rarity and grade, you can sell to dealers, auctions, or direct to collectors. Each route has pros and cons.
- Local coin dealers provide quick sales but may offer lower prices.
- Auctions and online marketplaces may reach specialist collectors and bring higher bids.
- Direct sale to a collector avoids commissions but requires finding the right buyer.
Tips for selling
Before selling, get clear photos, a provenance record, and a professional grade if the coin appears rare. Compare recent auction results for similar items to set a realistic price range.
Final steps if you find a 1981 Susan B Anthony dollar
If you have a 1981 coin, follow these simple actions: keep it safe, inspect it, and research before any sale. Most coins are common, so a careful approach avoids unnecessary costs.
Simple action plan:
- Set the coin aside and protect it in a soft flip or sleeve.
- Photograph both sides under good light.
- Check online databases and recent auction sales.
- If it looks exceptional, send it for professional grading.
Summary
While headlines about a single 1981 Susan B Anthony dollar fetching huge sums make for attention-grabbing stories, such outcomes are extremely rare. Most 1981 SBA dollars are worth little more than face value.
Quickly checking your change, understanding what makes a coin valuable, and using grading and trusted sales channels will help you identify and realize any true value if you are lucky enough to find a rare specimen.