1979-S Type 2 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Value Guide
The 1979-S Type 2 Susan B. Anthony Dollar is worth anywhere from $40 in standard Proof condition to over $1,000 for high-grade specimens. While most SBAs you find in your change are only worth face value, this specific “Clear S” variety is a genuine treasure for collectors and everyday finders alike.
| Condition/Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Proof-65 (Standard) | $40 – $55 |
| Proof-69 (High Grade) | $75 – $120 |
| Proof-70 (Perfect Grade) | $600 – $1,200+ |
Understanding the 1979-S Susan B. Anthony Dollar Varieties
If you have just discovered a shiny SBA dollar among your household items, the first step is knowing exactly what you are holding. In 1979, the United States Mint produced millions of these coins, but the “S” mint mark versions from San Francisco come in two distinct types.
To get a better sense of what your collection is worth, you can use a free coin identifier app to zoom in on the mint mark details. The Type 1 “Filled S” is the most common, where the S looks like a blob of metal.
The Type 2 “Clear S,” however, is much rarer and more desirable. Within the CoinKnow app, users often report finding these in older proof sets. The Type 2 features a sharp, well-defined “S” with clear bulbous ends and a visible field between the loops of the letter.
How to Identify the Type 2 Clear S Mint Mark
Identifying the 1979-S Type 2 Susan B. Anthony Dollar requires a close look at the mint mark located on the obverse (front) of the coin, just above Susan’s shoulder. Because these coins are Proofs—meaning they were made for collectors rather than general circulation—they should already have a mirror-like finish.
The Type 1 mint mark looks squeezed and flat. Because the punch used to create the coin was worn out, the “S” appears messy. The Type 2 punch was a new design introduced late in 1979. This “Clear S” has distinct, round serifs and looks like a perfectly printed letter.
When checking the 1979 Susan B. Anthony price data, you will notice a significant gap between the two types. Most collectors use CoinKnow to compare high-resolution photos of both types to ensure they don’t accidentally sell a Type 2 for the price of a Type 1.
| Feature | Type 1 (Filled S) | Type 2 (Clear S) |
|---|---|---|
| Mint Mark Appearance | Blobs, indistinguishable loops | Sharp, clear, defined S |
| Rarity | Common | Scarce |
| Market Value | $5 – $10 | $40 – $1,000+ |
Market Value and Collector Demand for the Type 2 SBA Dollar
The market for modern dollar coins has seen a surge in interest recently. While many “small dollars” like the Sacagawea or Presidential series remain at face value, the 1979-S Type 2 is a standout exception. Collectors of the Susan B. Anthony series focus heavily on finding “Registry Set” quality coins.
A Registry Set is a competitive collection where owners try to obtain the highest graded version of every coin in a series. This keeps the 1979-S Type 2 SBA value high for coins graded PF-69 or PF-70 by services like PCGS or NGC.
Even without professional grading, a raw Type 2 in its original plastic mint packaging is a valuable item. Using CoinKnow allows you to track auction prices for these specific varieties in real-time, ensuring you understand the volatility of the market before listing yours for sale.
Condition and Grading: Why “Deep Cameo” Matters
When valuing your 1979-S Type 2, you must look for the “Deep Cameo” (DCAM) or “Ultra Cameo” designation. These terms describe the contrast between the frosted portrait of Susan B. Anthony and the shiny, mirror-like background (or “fields”) of the coin.
A coin that has a strong contrast is much more valuable than one where the frosting has worn away or was never properly applied. Most Type 2 coins were struck with the new, sharper mint mark punch, which also tended to produce better cameo effects.
Check your coin under a bright light. If Susan’s face looks white and frosted while the background looks like a dark, perfect mirror, you might have a high-grade specimen. These “Deep Cameo” Type 2 coins are the ones that reach the $100 to $300 price bracket rapidly.
| Grade Designation | Average Auction Price |
|---|---|
| PF-67 Deep Cameo | $50 |
| PF-68 Deep Cameo | $65 |
| PF-69 Deep Cameo | $110 |
| PF-70 Deep Cameo | $1,100+ |
Common Misconceptions About the 1979 Dollar
Many people find the 1979-P (Philadelphia) or 1979-D (Denver) dollar coins in circulation and assume they have found a rarity. It is important to remember that the Type 1 and Type 2 varieties only apply to the “S” Mint mark coins found in Proof Sets.
The 1979-P exists in a “Wide Rim” or “Near Date” variety, which is also valuable, but it is not the same as the “Clear S” variety. If your coin has no mint mark or a “D” mint mark, it was intended for circulation and is likely worth exactly one dollar.
Always verify the mint mark before getting too excited. A standard 1979-S Type 1 proof coin is still worth more than a dollar, but it usually caps out around $10. The jump to the Type 2’s $40+ floor is what makes the San Francisco variety so special for everyday Americans.
Final Tips for Selling Your Susan B. Anthony Rare Variety
If you believe you have found a 1979-S Type 2, do not clean it! Cleaning a coin with chemicals or even a soft cloth can leave microscopic scratches that will instantly destroy its collector value. A Proof coin is especially sensitive to handling.
Store the coin in a PVC-free flip or keep it in its original Mint packaging if it came that way. When you are ready to sell, you can take high-quality photos and list them on platforms like eBay, or visit a local reputable coin dealer.
Professional grading is only recommended if you believe the coin is a “Perfect 70.” Since the cost of grading can be $30-$50 per coin, it only makes sense to grade a Type 2 SBA if its potential value significantly exceeds that cost. For most people, selling it as a “Raw” Type 2 is the most profitable path.
FAQ
Q: How can I tell if my 1979-S is a Type 2 without a magnifying glass?
A: It is very difficult to see the difference with the naked eye. The Type 2 “Clear S” has very bulbous ends on the S (like tiny balls at the tips), and you can see the flat field of the coin inside the loops of the letter. If it looks like a blurry blob, it is a Type 1.
Q: Are all 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollars valuable?
A: No, most are worth only one dollar. Only the “S” Proof varieties (especially Type 2) and the “P” mint mark “Wide Rim” varieties carry a significant premium over their face value.
Q: Where can I buy a 1979-S Type 2 coin?
A: You can find them at local coin shops, coin shows, or online auction sites. They are often sold still housed in the original 1979 United States Proof Set, but you must check the mint mark as both varieties were used in those sets.
Q: Is the 1979-S Type 2 rarer than the 1981-S Type 2?
A: Both are considered key varieties for the series. While the 1981-S Type 2 is technically rarer in terms of total mintage, the 1979-S Type 2 remains highly sought after because it was the first year of the series and the first time the new mint mark punch was used.
