Coin collecting just got a lot more exciting! A Susan B Anthony Dollar with a rare minting error has been valued at over $250,000, and collectors everywhere are searching their change for hidden treasure. If you think old coins are just pocket change, think again—one small mistake by the U.S. Mint has turned this dollar into a goldmine.
Let’s dive into why this little coin is now worth a quarter of a million dollars.
What Is the Susan B Anthony Dollar?
The Susan B. Anthony dollar is a U.S. coin that was first minted in 1979. It honors Susan B. Anthony, a famous women’s rights activist.
Key facts about the Susan B Anthony Dollar:
- First issued: 1979
- Made from: Copper-nickel
- Designed by: Frank Gasparro
- Size: Similar to a quarter, which confused many people!
Although it wasn’t very popular when it was released, the coin is now a big hit with collectors—especially because of rare versions like this $250,000 error coin.
What Makes This Susan B Anthony Dollar Worth $250,000?
This isn’t just any Susan B. Anthony dollar. It has a minting error that makes it ultra-rare. In the world of coins, a mistake can be worth serious money.
The $250,000 error happened when:
- A 1979 Susan B. Anthony obverse (front side) was accidentally struck on a Sacagawea dollar planchet (the blank metal disc used to make coins).
- This mix-up happened at the U.S. Mint—an extremely rare event.
- The result: a coin that shouldn’t exist but somehow made it into circulation.
Collectors call it a “mule coin”, which means two mismatched sides from different coin designs. That’s what makes it incredibly valuable.
What Is a Mule Coin?
In coin collecting, a mule is when two designs that were never meant to go together are accidentally paired during minting.
Why mules are special:
- They’re not supposed to happen, making them ultra-rare.
- Only a handful have ever been found in U.S. history.
- The mix of two different coin types makes it a favorite among collectors.
The $250,000 Susan B Anthony mule is one of the most famous examples ever found.
How Many Are There?
Only one known Susan B Anthony mule coin has been confirmed by experts. That’s what makes it so valuable.
According to numismatic experts:
- It’s considered unique, or one-of-a-kind.
- It was authenticated and graded by Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS).
- The coin has been featured in coin magazines and collector shows.
This is the kind of rarity that drives serious collectors to pay huge amounts of money.
How to Spot a Rare Susan B Anthony Dollar
Even though the $250,000 version is one-of-a-kind, there are other valuable Susan B Anthony Dollar that collectors look for.
Look out for these:
- 1979-P Wide Rim/Near Date – worth up to $500 in mint condition.
- 1981-S Proof Type 2 – can sell for $200+.
- Minting errors – like off-center strikes or double dies.
Always check both sides of your coins closely. You never know when you’ll find a hidden gem!
Absolutely! Here’s an easy-to-read comparison table you can add to the article to help users quickly understand the differences between a regular Susan B. Anthony dollar and the $250,000 error coin.
Comparison Table: Regular vs. $250,000 Error Susan B Anthony Dollar
| Feature | Regular Susan B Anthony Dollar | $250,000 Error Coin (Mule) |
|---|---|---|
| Year Minted | 1979, 1980, 1981, 1999 | 2000 (mule strike) |
| Front Design (Obverse) | Susan B Anthony Dollar | Susan B Anthony Dollar |
| Back Design (Reverse) | Eagle landing on the moon | Flying eagle from the Sacagawea dollar |
| Coin Planchet | Copper-nickel | Mismatched (Sacagawea planchet) |
| Edge Type | Reeded (grooved) | Reeded |
| Estimated Value | $1 – $500 (depending on condition) | Up to $250,000 |
| Number Known to Exist | Millions | Only 1 known |
| Collector Status | Common to semi-rare | Ultra-rare & highly valuable |
| Certified by Experts? | Only high-grade coins | Yes – authenticated by PCGS |
Fun Facts About the Susan B Anthony Dollar
- It was the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman instead of a fictional figure like Lady Liberty.
- Many people mistook it for a quarter due to its size and color.
- It was only produced in 1979, 1980, 1981, and briefly in 1999.
- The coin was brought back in 1999 to meet demand for dollar coins before the Sacagawea dollar launched in 2000.
Why Coin Errors Can Be So Valuable
Minting errors turn everyday coins into collector’s gold. Why? Because they’re rare, accidental, and often never meant to be released.
Top reasons mint error coins are worth so much:
- Limited supply – usually only a few exist.
- Collector demand – people love rare finds.
- Historical value – they represent mistakes in official government minting.
The Susan B. Anthony mule coin is a perfect example—it slipped through the cracks and is now a once-in-a-lifetime treasure.
What Should You Do If You Think You Found One?
If you think you’ve discovered a rare Susan B. Anthony dollar—or any strange coin—don’t spend it!
Here’s what you should do:
- Take clear photos of both sides of the coin.
- Do some research online for similar coins.
- Get it graded by a professional service like PCGS or NGC.
- Visit a coin dealer or coin show for expert advice.
- Never clean the coin—it can lower its value!
Final Thoughts: Check Your Change!
It’s not every day that a $1 coin turns into $250,000. This rare Susan B. Anthony mule dollar proves that treasure can be hiding in plain sight. Whether you’re a serious collector or just someone who enjoys a good story, keep your eyes open. Your next trip to the store could land you a small fortune.
