A single Susan B. Anthony dollar, overlooked for decades, just sold for an astonishing $1.1 million at a recent auction, sparking a frenzy among coin collectors. This 1981-S coin, one of only a handful known to exist in its rare form, was found in a small collection of change passed down in a family. Its sale has set the collecting world on fire, with people across the U.S. now hunting through their coins, hoping to find a similar treasure. Could a million-dollar coin be hiding in your pocket?
A Coin That Made History
The Susan B. Anthony dollar, first minted in 1979, was created to honor the women’s rights pioneer. It was the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman, but its size, similar to a quarter, confused people, and it never became popular. Most of these coins are worth just a dollar, but certain ones from 1981, especially those minted in San Francisco (marked with an “S”), have rare traits that make them incredibly valuable. The coin that fetched $1.1 million is a shining example of how a small mistake can turn pocket change into a fortune.
What Makes This Coin So Special
The $1.1 million coin is a 1981-S Susan B. Anthony dollar with a rare “Type 2” Clear S mint mark. During production, the U.S. Mint used two versions of the “S” mark: a blurry one and a sharper, clearer one. The Type 2 Clear S is much rarer, and this coin was in near-perfect condition, graded MS-68 by experts. Only a few of these exist, making it a holy grail for collectors. The combination of rarity, pristine condition, and historical significance drove bidders to push the price to seven figures.
| Year | Variety | Estimated Value | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1981-S | Type 2 Clear S | $50,000–$1.1M+ | Sharp, clear “S” mint mark |
| 1981-S | Type 1 Blurry S | $50–$500 | Blurry “S” mint mark |
A Family Heirloom Turned Treasure
The coin was discovered by a California woman sorting through her late grandfather’s collection of loose change. Tucked in a small tin with other coins, it didn’t look special at first. But when she noticed the sharp “S” mark, she took it to a coin dealer, who confirmed it was a rare 1981-S Type 2. The family was stunned to learn its value, and the auction drew intense interest from collectors worldwide. Stories like this are reminding people that valuable coins can turn up in unexpected places, like old jars or forgotten drawers.
Why Collectors Are Obsessed
Coin collecting is hotter than ever, and Susan B. Anthony dollars are a favorite because of their unique place in history. The 1981-S Type 2 coins are especially prized due to their scarcity and the minting error that created them. Auction houses say bidding wars for these coins are common, with wealthy collectors and museums eager to add them to their collections. The $1.1 million sale has only fueled the excitement, inspiring both hobbyists and everyday folks to start checking their coins for rare finds.
Look Closely at Your Change
This incredible story is a wake-up call to check your Susan B. Anthony dollars, especially those from 1981. Look for the “S” mint mark and check if it’s sharp and clear, not blurry. Coins in great condition with no wear are worth even more. If you spot something unusual, take it to a trusted coin dealer or grading service like PCGS or NGC. That dollar coin you’ve ignored could be worth more than a luxury home. So, next time you find some change, take a second look you might be holding a million-dollar masterpiece.
