The 1979-D Susan B. Anthony Dollar is worth anywhere from $1 to $2 in circulated condition, but well-preserved examples graded MS65 or higher can fetch $20 to $50 or more at auction. If you found one in a drawer or old jar, you’re in the right place — let’s break down exactly what it’s worth and why.
What Is the 1979-D Susan B. Anthony Dollar?
The Susan B. Anthony Dollar was first minted in 1979 and quickly became one of the most recognizable coins in American history. The “D” mint mark tells you this coin was struck at the Denver Mint. In 1979, the Denver facility produced over 288 million of these small dollar coins — making it one of the higher-mintage issues in the series.
If you’re not sure whether the coin you’re holding is actually a 1979-D or another variety, it helps to use a coin identification app to quickly confirm the mint mark, date, and coin type before you start researching value. A small “D” below the date on the obverse (front) confirms it’s the Denver issue.
The coin features Susan B. Anthony on the front and a miniature version of the Apollo 11 moon landing design on the reverse — a nod to the Eisenhower Dollar that preceded it. Despite its history, the coin was never popular in everyday commerce because people kept confusing it with a quarter. That unpopularity actually helps collectors today, since many were saved in mint sets rather than spent.
How Much Is a 1979-D Susan B. Anthony Dollar Worth?
Honestly, most 1979-D dollars you’ll find in circulation are worth face value or just slightly above it — around $1 to $2. The real money is in uncirculated examples. Coins graded MS63 can sell for around $5 to $10, while those at MS65 typically bring $20 to $40. Top-grade MS67 examples are rare and can sell for $100 or more.
Here’s a quick value chart based on condition:
| Grade / Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Circulated (Good to Fine) | $1 – $2 |
| Extremely Fine (EF-45) | $2 – $4 |
| Mint State MS63 | $5 – $10 |
| Mint State MS65 | $20 – $40 |
| Mint State MS67+ | $100+ |
For a deeper look at recent auction results and certified mint state pricing data for the 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar series, it’s worth checking dedicated coin pricing databases to see what the market is currently doing.
The 1979-D Wide Rim vs. Narrow Rim Variety
Here’s something that trips up a lot of collectors: the 1979-D dollar actually comes in two varieties — a Narrow Rim (also called Far Date) and a Wide Rim (Near Date). The Wide Rim variety, where the date sits closer to the rim, is the more desirable one and can bring a small premium. Most 1979-D coins are the Narrow Rim type, so don’t get too excited until you check with a loupe.
To tell the difference, look at how close “1979” is to the edge of the coin. On the Wide Rim, the numbers nearly touch the rim. On the Narrow Rim, there’s a clear gap. If you want to identify your coin’s variety quickly, CoinKnow makes it easy to scan and identify specific die varieties right from your phone.
Where to Sell Your 1979-D Dollar
If you’ve got a coin in uncirculated condition, it might be worth getting it professionally graded by PCGS or NGC before selling. A certified MS65 coin will always attract more buyers and better prices than a raw coin.
For circulated coins, online marketplaces like eBay are your best bet. You can also take them to a local coin dealer or coin show. Don’t expect much more than face value for worn examples, but if you have a roll or a collection, the combined value might surprise you.
Curious about the full complete value guide for the 1979 dollar coin across all mint marks and grades? That resource can help you compare your coin to the P and S mint versions as well.
CoinKnow is also a handy tool for getting quick estimates on coins like this — just snap a photo and let the app do the work while you decide whether to sell, hold, or get it graded.
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FAQ
Q: Is the 1979-D Susan B. Anthony Dollar rare?
A: Not particularly. The Denver Mint struck over 288 million of them, making it a common date. High-grade uncirculated examples (MS66 and above) are harder to find and worth more, but most circulated coins are only worth a dollar or two.
Q: What makes a 1979-D dollar more valuable?
A: Condition is the biggest factor. Coins with no wear, strong luster, and sharp details grade higher and sell for significantly more. The Wide Rim variety can also bring a small premium over the standard Narrow Rim type.
Q: Should I clean my 1979-D Susan B. Anthony Dollar before selling?
A: No — never clean a coin. Cleaning removes the natural surface and actually destroys value in the eyes of collectors and graders. Even a coin that looks dirty is better left alone. Let a professional assess it as-is.
