Most people think Susan B. Anthony dollars are just common pocket change — but one rare 1981 version could be worth hundreds, even over $500 in pristine condition. If you’ve got a few of these tucked away in old proof sets or coin albums, you might be sitting on a hidden treasure. Here’s how to tell if yours is the jackpot coin collectors are hunting for.
Why the 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Is So Special
The Susan B. Anthony dollar was minted for only a few short years — 1979 to 1981, and then briefly in 1999. Most people ignored these coins because they looked too much like quarters, but the 1981 issue stands out for one big reason:
It was never released for general circulation.
All 1981 dollars were struck exclusively for collector proof sets, meaning they were not meant to enter everyday use. That limited production makes any 1981 SBA dollar harder to find — and one specific version even rarer.
A Quick History of the SBA Dollar
- Introduced: 1979
- Honors: Women’s rights activist Susan B. Anthony
- Significance: First U.S. coin to feature a real woman
- Problem: Too similar in size to a quarter — people kept confusing them
- Result: Public rejection, limited minting, and quick discontinuation
By 1981, the Mint stopped making them for circulation — and that’s when the rare mint mark variety was born.
The Rare Mint Mark That Changes Everything
All 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollars carry one of three mint marks:
| Mint Mark | Location | Type | Rarity | Approx. Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| P | Philadelphia | Circulation | Common | $2–$5 |
| D | Denver | Circulation | Common | $2–$6 |
| S (Type 1) | San Francisco | Proof | Uncommon | $10–$25 |
| S (Type 2) | San Francisco | Proof (Clear “S”) | Rare | $250–$500+ |
The 1981-S Type 2 Proof Dollar — sometimes called the “Clear S” variety — is the true gem. Its sharper, redesigned “S” mint mark sets it apart from the common Type 1. Only a limited number were struck late in the year, making this proof coin one of the most desirable in modern U.S. coinage.
How to Identify the Rare Type 2 “S” Mint Mark
The difference lies in the shape of the “S”:
| Feature | Type 1 “S” | Type 2 “S” |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Blobby or rounded | Sharp, clear serif |
| Mintage | Higher | Very low |
| Availability | Common in proof sets | Rarely found |
| Collector Demand | Moderate | Extremely high |
Pro Tip: Use a magnifying glass or jeweler’s loupe. If the “S” is crisp and sharply defined — you’ve likely found the rare Type 2 version.
Collector Tips for Spotting and Selling
- Check Proof Sets: Unopened 1981 Mint Proof Sets may contain the rare Type 2 coin.
- Get Certified: Submit to grading services like PCGS or NGC for authentication.
- Handle Carefully: Never clean proof coins — it destroys the finish and lowers value.
- Monitor Auctions: Prices for pristine Type 2 proofs in PR69 or PR70 condition can soar past $500.
FAQs About the 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Q1: Can I find a 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar in my change?
Unlikely. These coins were never released for circulation and only came in collector sets.
Q2: What makes the Type 2 “S” mint mark valuable?
It’s a corrected, low-mintage version with a sharper design, making it far rarer than Type 1.
Q3: How do I check if my coin is the rare type?
Inspect the “S” under magnification — a clean, serif-style “S” means it’s likely Type 2.
Q4: Should I clean my coin before selling it?
Never. Cleaning damages the surface and drastically reduces its collector value.
Q5: Where can I sell a rare 1981-S Type 2 dollar?
Try reputable coin dealers, PCGS-graded auctions, or online platforms like Heritage Auctions and eBay (for verified sellers).
Conclusion: A Hidden Treasure Worth Finding
The 1981-S Type 2 Susan B. Anthony Dollar proves that even modern coins can hold surprising value. Many collectors are now rechecking their old mint sets and finding small fortunes in plain sight.
If you own a proof coin from 1981, take a closer look — that tiny “S” mint mark might just turn your forgotten coin into a collectible worth hundreds of dollars.