Ever stumble upon an old, hefty dollar coin and wonder if you've struck gold? The 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar, while widely circulated, actually harbors some potentially valuable varieties. Knowing how to differentiate a common coin from a rarer one could mean the difference between pocketing a dollar and possessing a piece of numismatic history. Understanding the nuances of mint marks, die varieties, and strike quality is key to unlocking the potential hidden within these seemingly ordinary coins.
The value of a coin isn't always about its age or metal content. Subtle errors and variations in the minting process can significantly increase a coin's desirability among collectors. Identifying these unique features requires a keen eye and a bit of knowledge. Learning to discern the mint mark, recognizing die polish errors, and understanding strike quality are all essential steps in assessing the true worth of your 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar. It's an investment in knowledge that could pay off handsomely.
What specific features differentiate a common 1979 dollar coin from a rare and valuable one?
Are there any specific mint marks that make a 1979 dollar coin more valuable?
Generally, no specific mint mark inherently makes a 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar coin significantly more valuable than others in circulated condition. The value primarily depends on the coin's condition, and errors, rather than the mint mark itself. However, certain varieties within each mint mark can influence the value for collectors.
While the standard 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollars from Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S) are quite common, collectors look for specific characteristics. For example, proof coins from San Francisco, especially those in exceptional condition and certified grades, command higher prices. Also, keep an eye out for coins with doubling errors or other minting anomalies, which can increase their value regardless of the mint mark. These errors are often subtle and require careful examination, potentially with a magnifying glass or microscope, to identify. The key to determining if a 1979 dollar coin is rare is to look beyond the mint mark and focus on its condition, any potential errors, and whether it's a proof coin. Consult a reputable coin dealer or grading service for a professional assessment if you believe you have a valuable example. Remember that the vast majority of 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollars are worth close to their face value.What errors or varieties should I look for on a 1979 dollar coin to determine its rarity?
The 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar coins are generally not considered rare in circulated condition. However, certain varieties and errors can significantly increase their value. The most notable varieties to look for are the "Near Date" and "Far Date" varieties for the 1979-P coin, differentiated by the position of the date relative to the rim. Proof examples graded highly by reputable grading services (PCGS, NGC) also command a premium.
The "Near Date" and "Far Date" varieties are specific to the Philadelphia Mint (1979-P). Examine the date on the coin closely. In the "Near Date" variety, the numbers of the date will be closer to the rim of the coin. The "Far Date" variety exhibits the numbers of the date farther away from the rim. Although, not as valuable as true errors, the "Near Date" commands a slight premium over the "Far Date", so checking each 1979-P dollar coin is worth the effort. These are considered minor design variations and are usually only detectable with careful inspection.
Beyond the date varieties, look for any obvious minting errors. These might include:
- Off-center strikes: Where the design isn't centered on the coin.
- Double dies: Showing doubling of design elements, particularly letters or numbers.
- Broadstrikes: Coins struck without the retaining collar, resulting in a wider, flatter coin.
- Cuds: Raised areas on the coin caused by a die break.
How does the condition of a 1979 dollar coin affect its potential value and rarity?
The condition of a 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar coin significantly impacts its value. Coins in circulated condition (worn from use) are generally worth only face value or slightly more. However, uncirculated coins, especially those graded by a reputable third-party grading service like PCGS or NGC, can command a premium, with higher grades (MS65 and above) being the most valuable and sought after by collectors.
A coin's condition, as assessed by grading services, directly reflects its level of preservation. Uncirculated coins retain their original mint luster and show no signs of wear. The better the luster, the fewer the imperfections (scratches, bag marks, etc.), the higher the grade assigned. Collectors prize uncirculated examples because they represent the coin as it was originally struck, making them scarcer and more desirable than worn coins. This is especially true for common date coins like the 1979 dollar, where condition is often the most significant factor influencing value beyond face value. While no 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar is inherently "rare" in the sense of having a very low mintage, truly exceptional examples in high grades are relatively scarce. Finding a 1979 dollar graded MS67 or higher is considerably more difficult than finding one in lower grades. Therefore, a 1979 dollar's rarity is tied directly to its condition. It is also good to keep in mind some coins may have errors, such as being struck on the wrong planchet. These coins will be worth much more.Can a 1979 dollar coin's color or toning indicate that it is rare?
No, the color or toning of a 1979 dollar coin (Susan B. Anthony dollar) is generally not an indicator of its rarity. Toning is a natural process caused by environmental factors and doesn't inherently make a common coin valuable. While attractive toning can sometimes increase a coin's appeal to collectors, it doesn't transform a regular 1979 dollar into a rare find.
The Susan B. Anthony dollar, minted from 1979-1981 and again in 1999, is a very common coin. Its composition of copper-nickel clad over a copper core makes it susceptible to toning, which can manifest in a range of colors from light gold to deep brown or even iridescent hues. This toning is usually the result of exposure to sulfur compounds in the air, moisture, or storage materials like cardboard or paper. However, most circulated 1979 dollar coins are only worth their face value, or slightly more if in uncirculated condition. The key factors determining the value of a 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar coin are its mint mark (P, D, or S) and its condition. While none of the 1979 issues are particularly rare in circulated grades, uncirculated examples, especially those with a "proof" finish from the San Francisco mint ("S" mint mark), can be worth more to collectors. Looking for exceptional strike, luster, and minimal bag marks are important, not the color variations brought on by environmental exposure.What is the average mintage of 1979 dollar coins and how does it relate to rarity?
The average mintage for 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollars across all mints (Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco) was quite high, exceeding 750 million coins. This significant quantity means that most 1979 dollar coins are not considered rare in circulated condition. Rarity, in the context of coin collecting, is inversely proportional to mintage figures: the higher the mintage, the less rare the coin is likely to be.
While the overall mintage figures are large, specific variations or error coins within the 1979 mintage can be considerably more valuable. For example, a widely recognized variety is the 1979-P "Near Date" or "Far Date" coin. These designations refer to the position of the mint mark relative to the date. "Near Date" varieties, where the mint mark is closer to the date, are slightly less common than the "Far Date" variety. However, even these varieties are not considered particularly rare in circulated grades. Uncirculated examples of 1979 dollars, particularly those graded highly by third-party grading services, command higher prices than circulated examples. Coins in pristine condition with full mint luster are scarcer because most of these coins entered circulation. Furthermore, proof examples struck at the San Francisco Mint are also more valuable, but still not considered major rarities unless they exhibit exceptional quality or unique errors. Generally, condition plays a far more significant role than mint mark when determining the value of a common date Susan B. Anthony dollar like those from 1979.Are there any 1979 dollar coins that were part of special releases or sets, impacting rarity?
While no 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar coins were specifically part of special mint-packaged sets that inherently increase their value above uncirculated examples, certain factors can still make finding a truly pristine, well-struck example desirable to collectors. Proof versions, created using special dies and planchets for a mirror-like finish, were exclusively sold in proof sets, making them more readily available in high grades than business strike coins intended for circulation. Furthermore, coins exhibiting unusual characteristics, such as errors, can command a premium.
The key to assessing the potential "rarity" of a 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar coin lies less in its association with a specific set and more in its condition and potential errors. Because millions were minted across the Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco Mints, circulated examples are extremely common and hold minimal value above their face value. However, uncirculated coins that have been carefully preserved and retain their original mint luster are more desirable and command a higher price. The most significant factor influencing the value beyond condition revolves around mint errors. For example, the "Near Date" and "Far Date" varieties found on the 1979-P Susan B. Anthony dollars garner interest and can significantly raise the coin's value, particularly if certified by a reputable grading service such as PCGS or NGC. Carefully examining the date's placement relative to the rim is crucial for distinguishing these varieties. The 'S' mint mark is for coins made in San Francisco, the 'D' mint mark is for coins made in Denver and no mark indicates that the coin was manufactured in Philadelphia.Where can I get a 1979 dollar coin professionally graded to assess its rarity and value?
You can submit your 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar coin to a reputable third-party grading service like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation). These companies authenticate, grade, and encapsulate coins, providing an expert assessment of their condition and genuineness, which directly impacts their value. They also maintain population reports, indicating how many coins of a specific grade have been certified, which can provide clues to rarity.
PCGS and NGC are the industry leaders and their grades are widely respected by collectors and dealers. Their services involve a fee, which varies based on the coin's declared value and the speed of service you require. Before submitting, it's helpful to research both companies, comparing their pricing structures, services offered (like variety attribution), and submission processes. Many local coin shops can act as authorized dealers for PCGS or NGC, facilitating the submission process for you, which can be beneficial for beginners. While other grading services exist, PCGS and NGC are generally preferred for higher-value coins due to their established reputation and market acceptance. Properly graded coins in higher grades from PCGS and NGC often command premiums in the market compared to coins graded by lesser-known companies. Consider photographing your coin before submission for your own records. Remember to properly package and insure your coin when sending it in to protect it during shipment.So there you have it! Hopefully, you now have a better idea of how to spot a potentially valuable 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar. Good luck with your coin hunting, and thanks for reading! Be sure to check back soon for more numismatic knowledge and coin collecting tips.