A casual shopper walked into a thrift store looking for bargains—and walked out with a rare 1999 P Susan B. Anthony dollar coin that later sold for an astonishing $14 million. What seemed like an ordinary coin turned out to be a once-in-a-lifetime jackpot. Could such treasure be hiding in your change?
What Is the 1999 P Susan B. Anthony Dollar Coin?
The Susan B. Anthony dollar was minted between 1979 and 1981, with a final run in 1999. Most are common and worth only a dollar, but rare errors, limited mintages, and unique conditions can make certain examples worth millions. The 1999 P mint mark is especially prized because it marked the coin’s last year of issue before the Sacagawea dollar replaced it.
The Hidden History of the Coin
The U.S. Mint introduced the Susan B. Anthony dollar in 1979 to honor the women’s suffrage leader. Unfortunately, the coin was often mistaken for a quarter due to its size and color, leading to low circulation. By 1999, the Mint released one last batch to meet coin demand. Some of these coins contained rare errors or proof qualities, making them collectible gems today.
Timeline of Susan B. Anthony Dollar Production
| Year(s) | Mint Marks Produced | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1979–1981 | P, D, S | First release; circulation issue |
| 1981 | Proof sets only | Collector-focused run |
| 1999 | P, D | Final production year |
Why This Coin Is Worth $14 Million
Not every 1999 P Susan B. Anthony dollar carries extreme value, but the one found in the thrift store had extraordinary characteristics: a pristine uncirculated grade, a rare minting error, and historical significance. Combined, these factors pushed collectors into a bidding war, driving the final sale price to $14 million.
How You Can Spot a Valuable Susan B. Anthony Dollar
- Check the Mint Mark — Coins marked with “P” (Philadelphia) or “S” (San Francisco proof) are often more desirable.
- Look for Errors — Off-center strikes, double dies, or unusual colorations are highly collectible.
- Examine Condition — Coins graded as MS67 or higher by PCGS or NGC can skyrocket in value.
Approximate Values of Susan B. Anthony Dollar Coins
| Type / Condition | Value Range |
|---|---|
| Common Circulated 1979–1981 | $1 – $5 |
| Proof Coin (1981 S) | $50 – $300 |
| 1999 P/D Uncirculated | $10 – $200 |
| Rare Error or High-Grade 1999 P | $5,000 – $14,000,000 |
Jaw-Dropping Facts About the Coin
- Only 11.9 million Susan B. Anthony dollars were minted in 1999, making it the lowest mintage since its release.
- A near-perfect 1999 P dollar graded MS68 is considered museum-worthy.
- The $14 million sale is among the highest prices ever paid for modern U.S. coinage.
Expert Advice: How to Protect and Profit
- Get Professional Grading — Services like PCGS or NGC authenticate and certify coins.
- Avoid Handling — Use gloves and store in protective cases to prevent damage.
- Check Thrift Stores and Change — Valuable coins often appear in everyday circulation.
FAQs
Q: Are all 1999 Susan B. Anthony dollars worth millions?
A: No, most are worth face value, but rare errors or high grades bring high premiums.
Q: Where can I sell a valuable coin?
A: Major auction houses, coin shows, or certified online platforms are best.
Q: How do I know if my coin has errors?
A: Look for misprints, doubling, or unusual textures, then confirm with a grading service.
Conclusion: A Million-Dollar Lesson
The 1999 P Susan B. Anthony dollar coin found in a thrift store proves that rare treasures can appear in the most ordinary places. While most coins are common, a few hold the potential to change lives. Next time you sort through spare change, remember: your dollar could be worth millions.
