1981 S Type 1 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Value Guide for Collectors
The 1981-S Type 1 Susan B. Anthony Dollar is worth anywhere from $5 in typical proof condition to over $1,500 for perfect specimens. If you have recently discovered one of these small-sized silver-colored dollars in a collection or a drawer, you are likely holding a coin specially minted for collectors rather than general circulation.
Why the 1981 S Type 1 Susan B. Anthony Dollar is Special
By 1981, the United States Mint had mostly stopped producing Susan B. Anthony dollars for everyday commerce due to their lack of popularity. However, they continued to strike these coins for official mint sets and proof sets. The 1981-S version was struck at the San Francisco Mint and features a “S” mint mark, indicating its origin.
Before you start cleaning your coin (which you should never do!), it is important to identify if you have a business strike or a proof. Most 1981-S dollars are “Proof” coins, meaning they were struck with polished dyes to give them a mirror-like finish. If your coin looks exceptionally shiny or “frosted,” you might want to use a free coin identifier app to confirm its specific variety and minting process.
For those tracking the market, checking the latest CoinKnow database can help you see real-time auction trends. Collectors often look for the “Type 1” variety specifically, which is characterized by a “Clear S” mint mark. While it is more common than the elusive Type 2 “Flat S,” it still holds significant interest for those completing a set of SBA dollars.
How to Identify the Type 1 vs Type 2 Mint Mark
Finding out the value of your dollar requires a close look at the mint mark located on the obverse side, just above Susan B. Anthony’s shoulder. In 1981, the San Francisco Mint used two different punches for the “S” mark. The Type 1, which we are discussing here, is known as the “Filled S” or “Clear S,” though the name can be confusing.
In reality, the Type 1 “S” often looks slightly rounded or bulbous. It was the standard punch used for most of the year. If you find a version where the “S” has very flat, clear serifs and looks more defined, you might have the more valuable Type 2. Professional collectors use CoinKnow to zoom in on high-resolution images to tell the difference.
To get a better idea of what these coins sell for in the current market, you can review the 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar market prices which provide a breakdown of how grade impacts the final sale price. Even a small difference in the clarity of the mint mark can change the value from a few dollars to a few hundred.
Current Market Value and Pricing Tiers
The value of the 1981-S Type 1 is heavily dependent on its “Grade.” Coins are graded on a scale from 1 to 70. Since these were issued in proof sets, most will be in the PR67 to PR69 range. A PR70 (a perfect coin with no flaws) is exceptionally rare and fetches the highest prices.
If you are curious about the general value of 1981 dollars across all mints, you will find that the San Francisco proofs are generally more desirable than the Philadelphia or Denver business strikes. Most everyday Americans will find a 1981-S in a plastic lens or case; keeping it in this original packaging is vital to maintaining its worth.
The CoinKnow app is a great tool for checking if your coin has “Deep Cameo” (DCAM) features. Deep Cameo coins have a sharp, white frost on the portrait that contrasts beautifully with a black, mirror-like background. These are the versions that collectors pay a premium for at coin shows.
| Condition / Grade | Estimated Value (USD) |
|---|---|
| PR65 (Average Proof) | $5 – $8 |
| PR68 (High Grade) | $15 – $25 |
| PR69 Deep Cameo | $35 – $60 |
| PR70 Deep Cameo (Perfect) | $1,200 – $1,800 |
Tips for Selling Your 1981-S Dollar
If you decide to sell your 1981-S Type 1 Susan B. Anthony Dollar, do not expect to get rich overnight unless you have a certified PR70 coin. For most people, the best way to sell is through online marketplaces or local coin shops. However, be aware that a coin shop needs to make a profit, so they may offer you a price slightly below the “book value.”
Before selling, ensure your coin is protected. Fingerprints can actually “eat” into the surface of a proof coin over time because of the oils on your skin. Always handle the coin by the edges. If your dollar is still in its original 1981 United States Proof Set, it is usually better to sell the entire set together rather than breaking it open.
Finally, keep an eye on the silver market—though keep in mind that these coins are actually made of a copper-nickel clad composition. They contain no actual silver. Their value is purely numismatic, meaning it comes from their rarity and condition, not their metal content.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 1981-S Susan B. Anthony dollar made of silver?
A: No, these coins are made of a copper-nickel clad composition. They have the same metal content as a modern quarter or dime, despite their “silver” appearance.
Q: How can I tell if my 1981-S is a Type 1 or Type 2?
A: Look at the “S” mint mark under a magnifying glass. The Type 1 “S” has smaller loops and often looks “filled” or less distinct. The Type 2 “S” has very clear, bulbous ends and a much more defined shape.
Q: Is it worth getting my 1981-S dollar professionally graded?
A: Professional grading (by companies like PCGS or NGC) usually costs $20-$50. Unless you believe your coin is a perfect PR70 or a rare Type 2 variety, the cost of grading may be more than the coin is worth.
