A lucky find in everyday pocket change turned into a jaw-dropping windfall when a rare Susan B. Anthony dollar sold for over $500,000 at a recent auction, a price higher than a brand-new Tesla. This incredible coin, discovered by an ordinary person, has thrilled coin collectors and sparked a wave of excitement. Its rarity and surprising value have made headlines, showing that treasures can still be hiding in plain sight.
A Coin Worth More Than Gold
The Susan B. Anthony dollar, first minted in 1979 to honor the women’s rights icon, is not usually worth much more than its face value. However, this particular coin was a rare 1979-P “Wide Rim” variety, also called the “Near Date” version. The design shows the date closer to the rim, making it a collector’s gem. Only a small number of these coins were made before the U.S. Mint changed the design, which is why it fetched such a high price. Finding one in pocket change is like hitting the jackpot.
The Auction That Shocked Everyone
The coin was sold at a major auction hosted by a well-known numismatic company. Bidders, both in-person and online, drove the price up quickly as they competed for this rare find. Starting at a modest bid, the auction turned into a frenzy, with the final sale price soaring past $500,000. The buyer, an anonymous collector, said the coin was a “dream find” for anyone in the hobby. The fact that it came from someone’s loose change made the story even more exciting.
What Makes This Coin So Special
The 1979-P Wide Rim Susan B. Anthony dollar stands out for a few key reasons. Here’s a quick look at its unique features:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Mint Year | 1979 |
| Mint Mark | “P” (Philadelphia Mint) |
| Variety | Wide Rim/Near Date |
| Estimated Surviving | Fewer than 1% of 1979-P coins |
| Material | Copper-nickel clad |
This rare version was a mistake by the Mint, which quickly switched to a narrower rim design. That makes these coins incredibly hard to find, especially in good condition.
A New Spark for Coin Hunters
This massive sale has lit a fire under coin collectors and everyday people alike. Many are now checking their spare change, hoping to find a similar treasure. The Susan B. Anthony dollar, though not popular when it was first released, is now gaining attention for its hidden value. Coin shops and online forums are buzzing with tips on spotting rare varieties. For beginners, experts suggest looking at the date and rim of any Anthony dollars they come across.
Could You Have a Fortune in Your Pocket?
The $500,000 sale proves that rare coins can turn up anywhere, even in a handful of change. Collectors are now on high alert for other rare Susan B. Anthony dollars, and auction houses expect more bidding wars in the future. For those new to coin collecting, starting small with a magnifying glass and a guidebook is the way to go. This story shows that a simple coin can be worth more than a luxury car, making every penny worth a second look.