The 1979-S Type 1 Susan B. Anthony Dollar is worth anywhere from $1 to $5 in standard circulated condition to over $20 in high-grade proof condition. While these small “SBA” dollars were once confused with quarters, certain varieties like the San Francisco proof issues hold extra value for modern collectors.
Understanding the San Francisco Mint Proof Varieties
If you just pulled a 1979-S dollar out of a coin jar, the first thing you need to know is that there are actually two distinct versions. The “S” mint mark indicates it was struck in San Francisco. While the business strike coins were meant for circulation, most people look for the Proof versions that come in shiny sets. To get a quick ID on what you have, you can use a free coin identifier app to check the finish and the mint mark detail instantly.
The Type 1 is often called the “Filled S” variety. In 1979, the mint used a punch that was a bit worn down, making the “S” look blob-like or filled in. Later that year, they replaced it with a much clearer “S,” known as Type 2. While the Type 2 is rarer and more expensive, the Type 1 remains a staple for anyone building a complete set of Susan B. Anthony dollars. If you aren’t sure about the quality of your coin, the CoinHix app can help you compare your specimen to high-resolution images for easier identification.
Current Market Value and Pricing Trends
The value of these coins depends heavily on their “grade,” which is basically a score of how much wear and tear the coin has endured. Most 1979-S business strike coins (those meant for spending) are only worth their face value of one dollar if they have been used in daily commerce. However, the Mint State (MS) non-proof coins and the Proof (PR) coins are where the interest lies.
Collectors often look for the 1979 SBA dollar price data to see how the market is moving. Generally, a Type 1 Proof coin in its original plastic packaging will sell for a small premium over its melt value. Because these coins are made of copper-nickel clad rather than silver, their value is driven purely by numismatic demand and the crispness of the strike.
| Condition / Grade | Estimated Value (USD) |
|---|---|
| Circulated (F-AU) | $1.00 – $1.25 |
| Uncirculated (MS-63 to MS-65) | $3.00 – $8.00 |
| Proof-65 (Type 1 Filled S) | $5.00 – $10.00 |
| Proof-70 (Perfect Condition) | $25.00+ |
Identifying the Type 1 vs Type 2 Mint Mark
The most common question people ask is how to tell the difference between the elusive Type 2 and the standard Type 1. On a Type 1 coin, the “S” looks thick and the loops of the letter are almost touching the middle bar, giving it a “blobby” appearance. On the Type 2, the “S” is very clear, the ends have flat bulbous serifs, and there is a clear field of “empty” space within the loops of the letter.
Using tools like CoinHix to zoom in on the mint mark is the best way to distinguish these varieties at home. Because the Type 2 can be worth twice as much as the Type 1, it is worth spending a few minutes under a magnifying glass. When assessing the historical value of 1979 dollars, you will find that condition is the ultimate tiebreaker for these modern coins.
Why the Susan B. Anthony Dollar is Unique
The Susan B. Anthony dollar was a historic milestone as it was the first time a real woman—not an allegorical figure like Liberty—appeared on a circulating U.S. coin. Unfortunately, the coin wasn’t popular in 1979 because its size and color were too similar to the Washington Quarter. This led to millions of them being tucked away in bank vaults for decades.
Because so many were saved, it isn’t hard to find them today. However, finding one in a “Deep Cameo” state—where the portrait looks frosted and the background looks like a black mirror—is what professional collectors hunt for. If you find one that looks exceptionally shiny and has no scratches, you might have a high-grade specimen that warrants professional grading. Modern collectors often use CoinHix to keep a digital inventory of these finds as they search through old coin rolls.
Q: Is the 1979-S Type 1 Susan B. Anthony dollar made of silver?
A: No, these coins are made of a copper-nickel clad composition. They contain no silver regardless of the mint mark or the proof finish.
Q: How can I tell if my coin is a Proof or a regular business strike?
A: Proof coins have a mirror-like background and sharp details, usually sold in plastic sets from the mint. Business strikes have a more dull, matte finish and were intended for circulation.
Q: Where is the best place to sell my 1979-S dollar?
A: For standard Type 1 coins, local coin shops or online auctions are best. However, unless the coin is in perfect condition (PF-70), the cost of shipping often exceeds the coin’s profit margin.
