A Collector‘s Personal Exploration of an Iconic Coin
When I first held the 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar in my hands decades ago, I knew immediately this wasn‘t just another coin. This small piece of metal represented something profound – a moment where American monetary history intersected with social progress.
The Woman Behind the Coin: Susan B. Anthony‘s Remarkable Legacy
Susan B. Anthony wasn‘t just a name etched onto a coin – she was a revolutionary force who fundamentally transformed women‘s rights in the United States. Born in 1820 in Massachusetts, Anthony dedicated her entire life to fighting for women‘s suffrage, challenging deeply entrenched societal norms that marginalized women.
Her tireless advocacy stretched across decades, facing ridicule, legal challenges, and personal attacks. When she was arrested in 1872 for attempting to vote – an act considered illegal at the time – she turned her trial into a powerful platform for women‘s rights. Though she didn‘t live to see women gain the right to vote (which happened in 1920, 14 years after her death), her relentless work laid the groundwork for constitutional change.
The Minting of a Legacy: Technical Nuances of the 1979 Dollar
The coin‘s creation wasn‘t just a commemorative gesture – it represented a calculated decision by the United States Mint. Weighing precisely 8.1 grams and measuring 26.5 millimeters in diameter, this coin was engineered with meticulous attention to detail.
Its metallic composition tells a fascinating story: an exterior layer of 91.67% copper and 8.33% nickel, with a pure copper core. This wasn‘t merely about durability, but about creating a coin that could withstand extensive circulation while maintaining its aesthetic integrity.
Mint Locations and Their Significance
Three primary mint locations produced the Susan B. Anthony dollar in 1979:
- Philadelphia (P Mint Mark)
- Denver (D Mint Mark)
- San Francisco (S Mint Mark)
Each location brought its own subtle variations, creating fascinating nuances for collectors to explore. The San Francisco mint, in particular, produced proof sets that became highly sought after by numismatists.
Rare Variations and Error Coins: A Collector‘s Treasure Hunt
As a seasoned collector, I‘ve learned that the most valuable coins often emerge from unexpected imperfections. The 1979 dollar series offers several remarkable error variations that can transform an ordinary coin into a prized possession.
Notable Error Varieties
[1] Wide Rim Variety: Coins where the date appears unusually close to the coin‘s edge[2] Repunched Mint Mark: Subtle overlapping mint mark impressions
[3] Multiple Strike Errors: Coins accidentally struck more than once, creating layered design elements
Market Valuation: Understanding Collector‘s Value
The coin‘s value isn‘t just about metallic composition or historical significance – it‘s about condition, rarity, and collector demand.
Mint State Grading provides a standardized approach:
- MS67: Near-perfect condition
- MS66: Excellent preservation
- MS65: Minor aesthetic imperfections
- MS64: Visible handling marks
A pristine MS67 Susan B. Anthony dollar can command prices well over $500, while more common circulated versions might fetch just a few dollars.
Authentication and Preservation: Expert Insights
Authenticating these coins requires more than casual observation. Look for:
- Crisp, clear mint marks
- Consistent metal luster
- Absence of significant wear
- Precise edge reeding
Preservation involves controlling environmental factors: minimal humidity, stable temperatures, and protection from direct sunlight.
The Broader Cultural Impact
Beyond numismatics, the Susan B. Anthony dollar represents a pivotal moment in recognizing women‘s contributions. It wasn‘t just a coin – it was a statement about representation, equality, and historical acknowledgment.
Collector‘s Recommendations
For those passionate about adding this coin to their collection, I recommend:
- Purchasing from reputable dealers
- Obtaining professional grading
- Understanding market trends
- Collecting with both financial and historical perspective
Conclusion: More Than Metal
The 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar transcends its monetary value. It‘s a tangible connection to a transformative period in American history, a tribute to an extraordinary woman, and a testament to the power of persistent advocacy.
Each time I examine this coin, I‘m reminded that true value isn‘t just about market price – it‘s about the stories, struggles, and triumphs embedded within its metallic surface.
Numismatically yours,
A Dedicated Collector
