How to Spot the Rare Susan B Anthony Dollar Worth $880,000
This guide shows practical steps to identify a rare Susan B. Anthony dollar that has been reported in the market with valuations up to $880,000. The focus is on what to inspect, common error types, and how to verify authenticity.
Why collectors are surprised by high values
Most Susan B. Anthony dollars are common and inexpensive. However, certain minting errors, extreme condition, or documented provenance can push a single coin’s value very high. Reports of coins reaching six-figure values have attracted attention and caution from collectors and dealers.
Key features to check on the rare Susan B Anthony dollar worth $880,000
Start with a careful visual inspection under good light and magnification. Use a 5x–10x loupe or a jeweler’s loupe to look for fine details and die defects.
- Date and portrait: Confirm the date and that the obverse shows the Susan B. Anthony portrait. The date must match expected strike characteristics for the year.
- Mintmark: Note the mintmark (usually P, D, or S). Mintmark placement and style can reveal varieties like repunched mintmarks.
- Strike and doubling: Look for doubled dies or pronounced doubling on letters and numbers. Doubling on the obverse or reverse can indicate a valuable die error.
- Planchet errors: Check for off-center strikes, clipped planchets, or broadstrikes. These physical errors often increase value.
- Surface condition: Scratches, bag marks, and wear reduce value rapidly. Ultra-high values usually require near-perfect surfaces and original luster.
Examples of errors that matter
Not all errors are rare. Focus on those that are documented to attract serious collector interest:
- Doubled die obverse or reverse
- Repunched mintmark (RPM)
- Severe off-center strike (over 10% usually preferred)
- Broadstrike or multiple strikes
- Clipped planchet with unique shape
How to authenticate and grade a potential high-value Susan B Anthony dollar
Authentication and professional grading are essential if you believe you have a rare or high-value coin. Submit the coin to a reputable third-party grading service such as PCGS or NGC.
Grading provides three critical things: an impartial assessment of condition, documentation of any error or variety, and encapsulation that adds market confidence.
Steps to prepare and submit
- Handle coins by the edges and wear gloves or use clean fingers to avoid oils.
- Take clear photos (high resolution) of both sides and close-ups of errors or mintmarks.
- Contact a grading service or a trusted dealer before shipping. Follow their submission and packaging rules closely.
Common pitfalls and how to avoid them
Many collectors are misled by cleaned coins, artificially altered surfaces, or clever post-mint damage passed off as rare errors. Be skeptical of ultra-high valuations without documentation.
- Do not assume value from color alone; artificial toning can be created.
- A claimed error should be visible under magnification; if not, seek a second opinion.
- Beware of unverifiable provenance. Auction records and certificates add credibility.
Real-world case study: How careful inspection turned a find into value
A small-town collector found an Anthony dollar in a box lot he bought from an estate. The coin looked ordinary at first, but the collector noticed unusual doubling on the date digits under magnification.
He submitted photographs to an online numismatic forum and then to a professional grader. After authentication as a doubled-die variety and an XF+ grade, the coin sold at a specialist auction for several thousand dollars—far above face value. The sale shows how attention to details and proper authentication can uncover unexpected value.
When to consult a professional dealer
If you find any of the error types listed above or have a coin in near-mint state, consult a reputable dealer or grading service. A professional can advise on rarity, expected market value, and the best path to sell or conserve the coin.
- Get multiple opinions for extreme valuations.
- Request documentation and references from dealers.
- Keep records of provenance and any prior sales or appraisals.
Final checklist: Before you spend money or accept an offer
- Verify the error or variety under magnification.
- Photograph the coin clearly from multiple angles.
- Obtain a professional opinion and consider grading.
- Keep the coin in safe, inert storage while you decide.
High valuations like the $880,000 figure reported in some circles are rare and usually backed by strong documentation. If you think your Susan B. Anthony dollar could be exceptional, follow the steps above and seek professional verification before making decisions.
If you need help evaluating photos or next steps, a certified grading service or local coin club can offer reliable guidance.