A simple coin that people often ignore might actually be worth a fortune. That’s the case with a rare version of the Susan B. Anthony dollar — a U.S. coin that looks ordinary but could be worth as much as $1.5 million (around ₹12 crore). What’s even more shocking? This coin might still be lying unnoticed in someone’s wallet, coin jar, or purse.
A Coin That Wasn’t Popular at First
The Susan B. Anthony dollar was first introduced in 1979 to honour Susan B. Anthony, a famous women’s rights activist. It was the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman instead of a symbolic image like Lady Liberty. But the coin didn’t become popular with the public. Its size and colour were very similar to the 25-cent coin (quarter), which confused many people.
Because of this, the U.S. Mint stopped producing the coin for general use after 1981. It made a short comeback in 1999 to help with demand from ticket machines and buses, but the coin was never truly loved. Now, that same coin is grabbing headlines — not for its history, but for an error that made it incredibly valuable.
The ₹12 Crore Mistake That Made History
One specific Susan B. Anthony dollar from 1979 has recently been valued at an unbelievable ₹12 crore. The reason? A rare minting error. This coin is believed to be a “Wide Rim” or “Near Date” version — meaning the numbers in the year “1979” are printed closer to the edge of the coin.
But what really makes it special is the double-die obverse error. This means some parts of the design were accidentally printed twice, creating a doubling effect that’s visible in areas like “IN GOD WE TRUST” and the profile of Susan B. Anthony. On top of that, the coin was found in mint condition — looking almost brand new — which made it even more valuable.
Only a few of these coins exist in such perfect condition. One recently sold privately for $1.5 million, causing a huge buzz in the coin collecting world.
Is One Sitting in Your House?
Coin experts believe more of these rare coins might still be out there. Because so many Susan B. Anthony dollars were made and because most people didn’t care about collecting them at the time, many were simply stored or used like regular coins.
Ron Thompson, a coin appraiser in Ohio, says that people who have coins from 1979 should definitely check them carefully. Look for a wider rim around the year and any signs of doubled letters or features.
Even if your coin isn’t the ₹12 crore version, it might still be worth ₹5,000 to ₹80,000 if it has a minor error or is in very good condition.
What You Should Look For
If you want to check your coins, here are some easy signs to watch for:
1979-P Wide Rim: The numbers in “1979” are printed closer to the coin’s edge than usual.
Doubling: Look closely at words like “LIBERTY” or “IN GOD WE TRUST” for any blurry or doubled lines.
Condition: If the coin looks shiny, clean, and almost new, its value could be much higher.
You can also send your coin to grading companies like PCGS or NGC, who will officially verify its type and condition.
Why This Matters
Many people ignore small coins or throw them into jars without a second thought. But stories like this show how rare treasures can sometimes hide in plain sight. The Susan B. Anthony dollar is no longer just “another coin” — it could be a key to a better financial future.
With rising interest in coin collecting thanks to social media, more and more people are taking a closer look at their old coins. It’s a fun and educational hobby that might just bring unexpected rewards.
Not every Susan B. Anthony dollar is worth a fortune — but some are. That’s why it’s worth checking your coins before spending them. Who knows? The next time you empty your purse or look in a drawer, you might discover a piece of history worth crores.
FAQs
What makes the ₹12 crore Susan B. Anthony coin so valuable?
This coin has a rare double-die error and a ‘wide rim’ design from 1979. Plus, it’s in near-mint condition, which adds to its value.
How do I know if I have the rare 1979-P Wide Rim coin?
Check if the year ‘1979’ is very close to the edge of the coin. Also, look for doubling in the words and Susan B. Anthony’s profile.
Can I still find these coins in my home or wallet?
Yes. Many of these coins were never checked by collectors. One might be in your change jar, purse, or even in a coin album at home.
Where can I get my coin checked?
You can contact professional grading services like PCGS or NGC. They will examine your coin and tell you its type and value.
Are all Susan B. Anthony coins valuable?
No, most are only worth face value. But certain rare versions, like the 1979-P Wide Rim with double-die errors, can be worth a lot.
I have wheat pennies but I don’t know what it get rid of or sell them
Hello Bruce,
Do you want to sell?