The Susan B. Anthony (SBA) Dollar holds a unique place in U.S. numismatic history as the first coin to feature a real woman rather than a symbolic representation of Liberty. Introduced in 1979, the SBA Dollar was meant to revolutionize U.S. coinage with a smaller, lighter dollar coin designed for convenience. However, its reception was mixed, and its run was sporadic, ending in 1981 before a brief revival in 1999. For collectors, the SBA Dollar series offers a fascinating mix of history, design quirks, and opportunities for specialization.
The Birth of the SBA Dollar
By the late 1970s, the U.S. Mint sought to replace the larger Eisenhower Dollar with a more practical, compact coin. The result was the SBA Dollar, which measured 26.5 mm in diameter—just slightly larger than a quarter—and featured a reeded edge. Designed by Frank Gasparro, the coin’s obverse depicts Susan B. Anthony, a trailblazer for women’s suffrage, while the reverse features the same Apollo 11-inspired design of the Eisenhower Dollar: an eagle landing on the moon with an olive branch.
Despite its ambitious goals, the SBA Dollar faced criticism almost immediately. Its size and design were often confused with the quarter, frustrating consumers and limiting its circulation. The Treasury ceased production after just three years (1979–1981), leaving the series with an aura of both controversy and collectibility.
Key Dates and Mintmarks
The SBA Dollar series consists of a limited number of dates and mintmarks, making it an accessible yet intriguing challenge for collectors. Here’s a breakdown of key issues:
- 1979 SBA Dollar: The inaugural year featured Philadelphia (P), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S) mintmarks. Collectors often hunt for the 1979-P “Wide Rim” (or “Near Date”) variety, where the rim is noticeably closer to the date, making it rarer than the standard “Narrow Rim” version.
- 1980 and 1981 Issues: The 1980 coins saw increased mintage, while the 1981 issues were produced exclusively for collectors in Mint and Proof sets. These 1981 coins are scarcer and highly sought after.
- 1999 Revival: Due to a resurgence in demand for dollar coins in vending machines and public transit systems, the SBA Dollar was revived briefly in 1999. These coins were struck at the Philadelphia and Denver Mints, with Proof versions produced in San Francisco.
Collecting Tips and Values
Collecting the SBA Dollar is an appealing endeavor for beginners and seasoned numismatists alike. Basic sets can be completed affordably, but key varieties like the 1979-P Wide Rim and the 1981 collector-only issues can command premiums. Proof coins from 1979, 1980, 1981, and 1999, with their mirror-like finishes, are also desirable.
A complete set typically includes all dates, mintmarks, and major varieties, while some collectors focus solely on error coins or Proof strikes. Certified coins graded by PCGS or NGC often fetch higher prices, especially in high Mint State or Proof Deep Cameo grades.
Conclusion
Though the SBA Dollar was ultimately replaced by the more widely accepted Sacagawea Dollar in 2000, it remains a symbol of progress and innovation in U.S. coinage. For collectors, the series offers an affordable way to own a piece of numismatic history and celebrate a pivotal figure in women’s rights. From the short-lived initial run to its brief return in 1999, the Susan B. Anthony Dollar series tells a compelling story of ambition, challenges, and legacy—a story every coin collector should explore.
FAQs
1. What makes the 1979-P “Wide Rim” Susan B. Anthony Dollar special?
The 1979-P “Wide Rim” variety features a rim that appears closer to the date compared to the standard version. It’s rarer and highly sought after by collectors.
2. Why was the Susan B. Anthony Dollar unpopular?
The SBA Dollar’s size and design closely resembled a quarter, causing confusion among the public. This similarity contributed to its limited acceptance in circulation.
3. Are Susan B. Anthony Dollars valuable?
Most SBA Dollars are affordable, but rare varieties like the 1979-P Wide Rim and the 1981 collector-only issues can fetch higher prices, especially in Mint State or Proof grades.