Do You Own This Rare Coin? Susan B. Anthony Dollar Wide Rim Variant Fetches $25,000

he Susan B. Anthony Dollar, first released in 1979, has become a collectible piece of American history. While most of these coins are common and worth only a dollar, a special variety known as the 1979-P Wide Rim (Near Date) Dollar has been making headlines.

Some online stories claim this coin can sell for as much as $25,000, sparking curiosity among collectors and the general public.

But what is the truth behind these claims? In this article, we will explore the history, features, identification tips, values, and actual auction results of the Susan B. Anthony Dollar Wide Rim variant.

If you think you might have one, this guide will help you figure out its true worth in today’s market.

History of the Susan B. Anthony Dollar

The Susan B. Anthony (SBA) Dollar was minted between 1979–1981 and briefly again in 1999. It was the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman, honoring Susan B. Anthony, a pioneer in the women’s suffrage movement.

Unfortunately, the coin was unpopular in circulation. Its small size and color made it easily confused with a quarter. Despite this, certain minting variations and limited issues have turned parts of the SBA series into collectible treasures.

What is the “Wide Rim” (Near Date) Variety?

In 1979, the Philadelphia Mint produced two versions of the SBA dollar:

1. Narrow Rim (Far Date): The date “1979” appears farther away from the coin’s edge.
2. Wide Rim (Near Date): The date is much closer to the rim, with a thicker border.

The Wide Rim variety is scarcer and therefore more desirable to collectors. This is the version that can command a premium price, especially in uncirculated or top-graded condition.

How to Identify the Wide Rim Dollar

Spotting the difference is easier than many people think. Here are the key identification tips:

• Look at the spacing of the date: On the Wide Rim, the “1” in 1979 is almost touching the rim.
• The rim itself looks thicker compared to the Narrow Rim.
• This variety is only significant for 1979 Philadelphia (P mintmark) coins.

If you suspect you have one, it is worth having it checked by a professional grading service.

Market Value in 2025

The value of the 1979-P Wide Rim dollar depends heavily on condition and grade. While social media hype often exaggerates with claims of $25,000 sales, the real market prices are usually lower but still impressive for a modern dollar coin.

For 1979-P Wide Rim Dollar (2025 Estimates)

Grade / Condition	Estimated Value Range	Notes
Circulated (XF–AU)	$5 – $30	Small premium due to variety
MS63 (Uncirculated)	$25 – $50	Entry-level collector grade
MS65 (Gem)	$100 – $150	Attractive for collectors
MS66	$150 – $300	Scarcer in higher quality
MS67	$1,500 – $3,000	Rare; big auction interest
MS67+ (Top Pop)	$5,000 – $6,500	Extremely rare; only a few exist
Rumored Extreme Sales	$25,000	Viral claim, not backed by recent major auctions

Why Some Believe It’s Worth $25,000

The “$25,000 SBA Dollar” stories are usually based on rumors or misinterpretations of rare sales records. In reality, only high-grade coins certified by PCGS or NGC can approach several thousand dollars. Coins in circulation or in lower grades are worth only a modest premium above face value.

Collecting Tips

• Check your change carefully. These coins still appear in circulation occasionally.
• Avoid cleaning the coin. Cleaning damages value.
• Get it graded. Submitting to PCGS or NGC can unlock its full market potential.
• Sell smart. For top-grade coins, use major auction houses instead of casual online marketplaces.

The Bigger Picture in SBA Dollars

While the Wide Rim is the most famous variety, collectors also seek:

• 1979-S Proof Type 2 (Clear S)
• 1981-S Proof Type 2
• 1999 circulation strikes (low mintage year)

These coins also hold collectible value, especially in high grades or proof versions.

The 1979-P Susan B. Anthony Wide Rim Dollar is a fascinating piece of U.S. numismatic history. While the $25,000 claim is exaggerated, the truth is still exciting: a coin many people overlook could be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars if found in pristine condition.

If you own one, carefully evaluate its rim style, condition, and grade. Who knows? That dollar coin sitting in your drawer could be more valuable than you ever imagined.

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