Coin collectors are always on the lookout for rare finds that could be hiding in plain sight, and one surprising candidate is the 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar. While millions of these coins were minted, a rare variation—known as the Wide Rim or Near Date error—has taken the spotlight recently. One pristine specimen of this error coin was auctioned off for an unbelievable $4.5 million, leaving numismatics enthusiasts amazed at how such a small detail could lead to such a massive payday.
The 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar and the Wide Rim Error
The Susan B. Anthony dollar was first minted in 1979 to honor the women’s suffrage leader. It was also the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman rather than an allegorical figure. Most 1979 dollars have a narrow rim, but some early production runs produced coins with a Wide Rim (or Near Date)—where the date appears much closer to the coin’s edge than usual. This minting variation happened due to a change in die design and is now considered a rare and valuable error.
Collectors call this the “1979-P Wide Rim” or “Near Date” dollar, since it was minted in Philadelphia and the wider rim brings the numbers of the date closer to the coin’s edge. This minor design difference is easy to overlook by casual observers but incredibly important to collectors.
Why Is It Worth $4.5 Million?
Most 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollars are worth face value, but a perfect Wide Rim example recently made headlines when it sold for $4.5 million. What made this particular coin so valuable? Its high grade (MS-68+), its rarity, and its pristine condition. The combination of a mint error and impeccable preservation led collectors to fight over it at auction. While not all Wide Rim versions will reach such a price, even moderately graded examples can sell for hundreds or thousands of dollars.
Other Rare Susan B. Anthony Dollar Errors
Besides the Wide Rim, there are other collectible varieties in the Susan B. Anthony dollar series. The 1981-S Type 2 Proof features a clearer and more defined mint mark. Another rarity includes misstrikes or off-center versions of the coin, which also attract significant interest and value. However, the 1979 Wide Rim remains one of the most sought-after variants among collectors.
The 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Wide Rim Error is a perfect example of how small minting differences can turn ordinary coins into treasures. Though many people dismiss these dollars as common pocket change, those who take the time to inspect the date spacing could be in for a huge surprise. With a record-setting value of $4.5 million, it proves that even modern coins have their legends—and fortunes—hidden within.
FAQ’s:
1. What is the Wide Rim or Near Date error on the 1979 dollar?
The Wide Rim error occurs when the date appears closer to the edge of the coin than on standard versions, caused by a change in the die.
2. How do I identify a 1979 Wide Rim Susan B. Anthony Dollar?
Look at the spacing between the edge of the coin and the number “1” in the date. If it is very close to the rim, you may have a Wide Rim error.
3. Are all Wide Rim dollars worth millions?
Not all are worth millions, but higher-grade coins can be worth hundreds or thousands. Only extremely rare, near-perfect examples reach multi-million-dollar prices.
4. Can I still find this coin in circulation?
While unlikely, it’s not impossible. Many people don’t recognize this error, so it’s worth checking any old coins you have.
5. Where can I sell a 1979 Wide Rim dollar?
Reputable coin dealers, online auctions like eBay, or grading services like PCGS or NGC are good places to evaluate and sell your coin.
