Susan B. Anthony Dollar – In the world of numismatics, few stories captivate the imagination quite like a seemingly ordinary coin transforming into a jackpot find. One such tale is that of a Susan B. Anthony dollar — a coin many Americans have tossed aside or spent without a second thought — which recently fetched a staggering $39,500 at a rare coin auction. But what makes this story even more incredible? The coin had survived a full cycle in a household washing machine before its true value was ever discovered. Let’s dive into how this lucky dollar escaped destruction, what made it so valuable, and how you can spot a treasure hiding in your own spare change.
The Laundry Coin That Shocked Collectors
When a worn-looking Susan B. Anthony dollar popped out of a sock during laundry folding, its owner almost ignored it. It had gone through an entire wash and dry cycle — soaking, tumbling, and heating along with dirty clothes. But something about the shine and the odd strike pattern made the owner take a second look. That curiosity led them to a local coin expert who delivered the shocking news: this wasn’t just any dollar coin — it was a rare minting error.
Why Was This Coin Worth $39,500?
The high auction value wasn’t just because of the coin’s odd journey. Several key factors contributed to its remarkable worth:
- Minting Error: The coin was found to have a double strike, meaning it had been accidentally stamped twice at the U.S. Mint, creating a unique layered image effect.
- Date Rarity: It was a 1979-P Wide Rim “Near Date” variety, already considered rare by collectors.
- Excellent Condition: Despite surviving the laundry, the coin remained in extremely fine condition with minimal scratches.
- Authentication and Certification: Graded and authenticated by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), the coin received a high grade, boosting its appeal at auction.
Coin Specifications Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Type | Susan B. Anthony Dollar |
| Year | 1979-P (Wide Rim/Near Date) |
| Mint Mark | Philadelphia (P) |
| Error Type | Double Strike Error |
| Grade | MS65 (Mint State) |
| Material | Copper-Nickel Clad |
| Auction House | Stack’s Bowers Galleries |
| Final Auction Price | $39,500 |
The Story Behind the Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Introduced in 1979, the Susan B. Anthony dollar was the first U.S. coin to feature a real historical woman. Despite this milestone, the coin wasn’t popular in circulation due to its similarity in size and color to the quarter. As a result, few people held onto them. But within the numismatic community, certain variations of the coin have become highly sought after.
Other Valuable Susan B. Anthony Coin Errors
Some Susan B. Anthony dollars are worth more than face value due to minting errors or rare strike features. Here are examples of other valuable finds:
| Coin Variety | Value Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1979-P Wide Rim (Near Date) | $600 – $1,500 | Larger rim makes date appear closer |
| 1981-S Type 2 Proof | $300 – $1,200 | Clear, flat ‘S’ mintmark |
| Double Strike Errors | $2,000 – $40,000+ | Multiple images caused by mint mistake |
| Off-Center Strike | $500 – $2,000 | Coin design is partially missing |
| Transitional Errors | $5,000 – $20,000+ | Wrong metal composition used |
How a Coin Survived the Laundry and Still Won Big
The survival of the coin is impressive, considering that washing machines can easily scratch, bend, or warp softer metals. But the copper-nickel composition of the Susan B. Anthony dollar — combined with the coin’s original high-strike quality — helped it withstand the tumble cycle.
Signs You Might Have a Valuable Coin
If you suspect a coin in your home might be worth more than its face value, look out for these signs:
- Odd edges or double images on the coin.
- Unusual date spacing or misaligned text.
- Off-center images or missing elements.
- Coins that look like quarters but are slightly different.
- Shiny, untouched coins from years like 1979, 1980, or 1981.
How to Get Your Coin Appraised
If you’ve found a coin and want to know its worth:
- Don’t clean the coin – Cleaning can destroy its value.
- Use a magnifying glass to inspect for mint marks and errors.
- Consult online databases like PCGS or NGC for quick checks.
- Visit a certified coin dealer or attend a local coin show.
- Consider getting it graded by a professional agency.
This tale of the Susan B. Anthony dollar is more than just a feel-good story. It’s a reminder that rare treasures can hide in plain sight — or even in your sock drawer. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just someone who checks their change out of curiosity, it’s worth taking a second look. That spare dollar might just be your next big payday.
