1979-S Type 1 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Value and What It’s Worth Today
The 1979-S Type 1 Susan B. Anthony Dollar is worth anywhere from $2 in circulated condition to over $40 or more in pristine mint state, with some proof versions fetching even higher prices among serious collectors. If you recently found one of these coins in a drawer, old purse, or inherited collection, you might be sitting on something more valuable than you think — and this guide will help you figure out exactly what you’ve got.
What Makes the 1979-S Type 1 Different From Other Susan B. Anthony Dollars?
The Susan B. Anthony (SBA) Dollar was first minted in 1979, and the San Francisco Mint — indicated by the “S” mintmark — produced both proof and business strike versions that year. But here’s where it gets interesting: in 1979, the San Francisco Mint actually produced two distinct varieties of the coin, now known as Type 1 and Type 2.
The Type 1 has a blobby or filled “S” mintmark, meaning the curves of the letter are thick and not well-defined. The Type 2, introduced later in the year, features a clearer, more defined “S” mintmark. While both are collectible, the Type 1 is actually the more common of the two — but don’t let that discourage you, because condition still plays a major role in value.
If you’re not sure which type you have, try using a free coin identifier app to scan your coin and get a quick identification. It can save you a lot of guesswork.
How Much Is the 1979-S Type 1 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Worth?
Value depends heavily on whether your coin is a circulated business strike, an uncirculated example, or a proof coin. The 1979-S mintmark appeared on proof sets sold to collectors, making most 1979-S coins proofs rather than coins intended for everyday circulation.
For a detailed breakdown of current 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar price data across different grade levels, it’s worth checking up-to-date market sources before buying or selling.
Here’s a general value table to give you a quick picture:
| Condition / Grade | Type | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Circulated (Fine–XF) | Business Strike | $1.50 – $3 |
| Uncirculated (MS-63) | Business Strike | $5 – $12 |
| Uncirculated (MS-65) | Business Strike | $15 – $35 |
| Proof (PR-65) | Type 1 Proof | $8 – $15 |
| Proof (PR-69 DCAM) | Type 1 Proof | $30 – $60+ |
Does the Mintmark Type Really Affect the 1979-S Dollar’s Value?
Yes, but maybe not in the direction you’d expect. Since Type 1 is more common than the Type 2 “Clear S” variety, the Type 2 commands a significant premium among collectors. A 1979-S Type 2 Proof in top grades can sell for hundreds of dollars, while the Type 1 is more modestly priced.
That said, the 1979-S Type 1 in Deep Cameo Proof grades (PR-69 DCAM or PR-70 DCAM) is still highly sought after. The contrast between the frosted design and mirror-like fields on a top-grade proof is stunning, and collectors pay accordingly.
For a broader look at how the 1979 dollar coin’s value compares across all mint facilities and varieties, that resource gives a solid overview of the full picture.
How to Tell If Your Coin Is Worth Getting Graded
Professional grading through services like PCGS or NGC can significantly increase the selling price of a high-quality 1979-S Type 1 Susan B. Anthony Dollar — especially proof coins. Grading costs money, so it’s only worth it if your coin appears to be in exceptional condition with no visible scratches, cloudiness, or spots.
Before spending money on grading, try scanning your coin with CoinKnow, a smart app that helps everyday coin finders get a quick condition estimate and value range right from their phone. It’s one of the easiest ways to decide whether a coin is worth pursuing further.
Look for sharp detail on Susan B. Anthony’s portrait, strong lettering around the rim, and brilliant surfaces on proof versions. Even minor contact marks can drop a proof from PR-69 to PR-65, which makes a real difference in value.
Where to Sell a 1979-S Type 1 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
If you’ve confirmed your coin has some value, there are several places to sell. eBay is the most popular platform for individual coins, where completed listings show you real-world prices. Local coin shops offer convenience but may pay below market value. Coin shows are great for higher-value pieces where you can negotiate directly with dealers.
CoinKnow also helps users connect with the broader coin community, which is especially handy if you’re new to selling coins and want to avoid getting lowballed. Knowing what your coin is actually worth before you walk into a shop makes a big difference.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 1979-S Susan B. Anthony Dollar rare?
A: Not particularly — millions were minted, especially in proof form for collector sets. However, the Type 2 “Clear S” variety is genuinely scarce and worth significantly more than the Type 1.
Q: Can I spend a 1979-S Susan B. Anthony Dollar as regular currency?
A: Technically yes, it’s still legal tender worth one dollar. But given that even a circulated example is worth slightly more than face value, and a proof coin much more, spending it would be a waste. Hold onto it and check its condition first.
Q: How do I know if my 1979-S dollar is a proof coin?
A: Proof coins have a mirror-like, highly reflective background (called the field) and a frosted, matte appearance on the raised design elements. They were never meant for circulation and came in special U.S. Mint proof sets. If your coin looks unusually shiny and sharp compared to a regular dollar, it’s likely a proof. Using CoinKnow to scan it can help confirm this quickly.
