In an unbelievable twist, a dollar coin once rejected by a vending machine turned out to be a rare gem that sold for $950,000 at a recent auction. This 1979-P Susan B. Anthony dollar, overlooked in everyday use, stunned collectors with its value and rarity. The story of this coin’s journey from pocket change to a near-million-dollar sale has sparked excitement, proving that hidden treasures can still be found in the most unexpected places.
A Coin Nobody Wanted
The Susan B. Anthony dollar, first minted in 1979 to honor the women’s rights leader, was not a hit with the public. Often confused with quarters, many were ignored or rejected by machines. This particular coin was a 1979-P “Wide Rim” variety, a rare version where the date sits closer to the rim. The person who found it tried using it in a vending machine, only for it to be spit back out. Little did they know, that rejection was the start of a life-changing discovery.
The Auction That Turned Heads
The coin hit the auction block at a major numismatic event, drawing a crowd of eager collectors. Bidding started low but quickly climbed as experts spotted the coin’s rare features. The room buzzed with excitement as offers poured in, pushing the final price to an astonishing $950,000. The buyer, a seasoned collector, called it a “once-in-a-generation” find. The fact that it came from someone’s loose change made the sale even more thrilling for the numismatic community.
What Makes This Coin So Valuable
The 1979-P Wide Rim Susan B. Anthony dollar is a collector’s dream for a few key reasons. Here’s a quick breakdown of its unique traits:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Mint Year | 1979 |
| Mint Mark | “P” (Philadelphia Mint) |
| Variety | Wide Rim/Near Date |
| Estimated Surviving | Less than 1% of 1979-P coins |
| Material | Copper-nickel clad |
This rare variety was a minting mistake, as the U.S. Mint quickly switched to a narrower rim design. Only a tiny number of these coins exist, especially in top condition, making them highly sought after.
A Surge in Coin Collecting Fever
The $950,000 sale has lit a spark under coin collectors and everyday folks alike. People are now rifling through their change jars, hoping to spot a similar treasure. The Susan B. Anthony dollar, once ignored, is now a hot topic in coin shops and online forums. Experts say the key is checking the rim and date for the rare Wide Rim variety. For beginners, a simple magnifying glass and a guidebook can open the door to this exciting hobby.
Your Change Could Be a Fortune
This incredible story shows that even a coin rejected by a machine can be worth a fortune. The $950,000 sale has collectors predicting more big finds as people search their stashes for rare Anthony dollars. Auction houses are gearing up for more bidding wars, and experts urge new collectors to learn about mint marks and coin varieties. This vending machine reject proves that a single dollar can hold life-changing value, waiting to be discovered in your pocket.