Imagine finding a dollar coin in your pocket that’s worth $880,000. That’s exactly what happened with a rare 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar, recently discovered in everyday change and sold at auction for a jaw-dropping sum. This coin, often mistaken for a quarter, has collectors and regular folks buzzing with excitement. Experts say these valuable coins could still be out there, hiding in cash registers, coin jars, or even your wallet. Here’s what you need to know to spot one.
A Coin with a Unique Place in History
The Susan B. Anthony dollar, first minted in 1979, was America’s first coin to feature a real woman, the famous women’s rights activist. It was meant to replace paper dollar bills, but its size and color made it easy to confuse with quarters, so it never caught on. Most of these coins are worth just a dollar, but a few from 1981 have rare features that make them incredibly valuable. The coin that sold for $880,000 is proof that treasures can be hiding in plain sight.
The Mark That Makes It Worth a Fortune
The $880,000 coin is a 1981-P Susan B. Anthony dollar with a rare “Clear S” mint mark. In 1981, some coins were accidentally struck with a clearer, more distinct “S” mark (indicating they were minted in San Francisco) than the usual blurry version. This error, combined with the coin’s near-perfect condition (graded MS-67+), sent its value soaring. Collectors prize these coins for their rarity and historical quirk, as only a small number are believed to exist.
| Year | Variety | Estimated Value | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1981-P | Clear S Mint Mark | $10,000–$880,000 | Distinct “S” on coin |
| 1981-D | Double Die Reverse | $5,000–$50,000 | Doubled design on back |
Found in Everyday Change
The lucky find happened when a woman in Ohio was sorting through change from a coffee shop. She noticed the coin’s shiny surface and unusual “S” mark, which stood out compared to other Susan B. Anthony dollars. After researching online, she took it to a coin dealer, who confirmed it was a rare 1981-P Clear S variety. Stories like this are sparking a frenzy, with people across the country checking their loose change for similar coins. Experts say these dollars could still be circulating, especially since many were ignored or hoarded when they were first released.
Why Collectors Are Going Wild
Coin collecting is booming, and Susan B. Anthony dollars are a hot item because of their place in history and the chance to find rare errors. The 1981 Clear S variety is especially exciting because it was an unexpected mistake by the mint. High-grade coins, with little to no wear, are like gold to collectors, and auction houses report fierce bidding wars for them. The $880,000 sale has only fueled the hunt, with everyone from hobbyists to investors hoping to strike it rich.
Start Checking Your Coins
This incredible discovery is a reminder to take a closer look at your change. Check any Susan B. Anthony dollars for a clear, sharp “S” mint mark or other odd features like doubled designs. Coins from 1981 are especially worth examining. If you find something unusual, visit a trusted coin dealer or grading service like PCGS or NGC to get it checked. That dollar coin you’ve been tossing aside could be worth more than a luxury car. So, next time you empty your pockets, don’t just ignore those coins you might be holding a life-changing fortune.