The 1981-S Type 2 Susan B. Anthony Dollar is worth anywhere from $3 in circulated condition to over $40 or more in pristine mint state — and certain proof examples can climb even higher depending on grade and eye appeal. If you’ve stumbled across one of these coins in an old collection or coin roll, you’re in the right place to find out exactly what you’ve got.
What Makes the 1981-S Type 2 Different From Other Susan B. Anthony Dollars
The Susan B. Anthony Dollar was produced from 1979 to 1981, with a brief revival in 1999. The 1981-S coins were made exclusively at the San Francisco Mint as proof coins — meaning they were never intended for everyday pocket change. They were sold in collector sets and feature sharp, mirror-like surfaces.
Here’s where it gets interesting: in 1981, the San Francisco Mint produced two distinct varieties of proof SBA dollars, known as Type 1 and Type 2. The Type 2 has a clearer, more defined mintmark — the “S” appears rounder and bolder compared to the flatter, more filled-in look of the Type 1. This subtle difference matters a great deal to collectors.
If you’re not sure which type you have, a coin identification app can help you compare your coin’s mintmark to known examples side by side. It’s a quick way to confirm whether you’re holding the more collectible Type 2. CoinKnow is one app that many hobbyists use to identify and research coins like this one quickly and accurately.
How Much Is the 1981-S Type 2 Susan B. Anthony Dollar Worth
Because the 1981-S Type 2 SBA dollar is a proof coin, its value is largely tied to its proof grade, typically rated from PR60 to PR70. A coin with deep cameo contrast — that’s the frosted design against a mirror field — commands the highest premiums.
Here’s a quick reference table for typical values:
| Grade | Type | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| PR65 | Type 2 | $10 – $18 |
| PR67 | Type 2 | $20 – $35 |
| PR68 | Type 2 | $35 – $60 |
| PR69 Deep Cameo | Type 2 | $75 – $150+ |
| PR70 | Type 2 | $300+ |
For a more detailed breakdown of Susan B. Anthony dollar auction results and price data by grade, it’s worth checking recent sales records to see where the market currently sits.
Factors That Affect the Value of Your 1981-S Type 2 SBA Dollar
Beyond grade, a few other things can push the value of your 1981-S Type 2 Susan B. Anthony Dollar up or down:
Cameo vs. Deep Cameo designation: PCGS and NGC use “Cameo” (CAM) and “Deep Cameo” (DCAM) labels to indicate the contrast between the frosted portrait and the mirrored background. DCAM coins are significantly more desirable and more valuable.
Original packaging: If your coin is still sealed in its original U.S. Mint proof set packaging, that’s a positive sign. Coins that have been removed and handled may show hairlines under magnification, which lowers the grade.
Third-party grading: A coin slabbed and graded by PCGS or NGC will almost always sell for more than a raw, ungraded example, because buyers trust the assigned grade. If you think you have a high-grade specimen, getting it professionally graded is often worth the investment.
For a broader look at 1981 dollar coin values across all mint marks and varieties, comparing the different issues side by side can help you understand where the Type 2 fits in the overall picture.
Where to Sell Your 1981-S Type 2 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Once you know what you have, you have several options. eBay is the most popular marketplace for coins like this, with a large pool of buyers familiar with SBA dollar varieties. Heritage Auctions and Stack’s Bowers are excellent for high-grade slabbed examples where you want maximum exposure to serious collectors.
Local coin dealers can offer quick cash, though you may get less than you would from a private sale. Coin shows are another great venue — dealers there often specialize in modern proof coinage and will recognize the Type 2 distinction immediately.
CoinKnow is a handy tool for getting a ballpark idea of your coin’s value before you walk into any negotiation. Knowing the current market range puts you in a stronger position as a seller.
FAQ About the 1981-S Type 2 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Q: How do I tell if my 1981-S Susan B. Anthony Dollar is Type 1 or Type 2?
A: Look closely at the “S” mintmark on the obverse. The Type 2 mintmark appears rounder and more clearly defined, while the Type 1 mintmark looks slightly flatter or filled in. A loupe or magnifier makes this comparison much easier. You can also use CoinKnow to compare your coin against reference images.
Q: Is the 1981-S Type 2 rarer than the Type 1?
A: Yes, generally. The Type 2 was introduced partway through 1981 production, so fewer were made compared to the Type 1. This relative scarcity, combined with collector demand, makes the Type 2 more valuable across all proof grades.
Q: Should I clean my 1981-S Type 2 SBA dollar before selling it?
A: Absolutely not. Cleaning a proof coin — even lightly — causes hairline scratches that are easily visible under magnification. A cleaned coin will receive a lower grade or a “details” designation from grading services, which significantly reduces its value. Leave it exactly as you found it.
