Evaluating the 1979 Dollar Coin: Novice Numismatist Guide

Among modern U.S. coins, the 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar stands out for its historical and cultural impact. It was the first American coin to feature a real woman’s portrait, marking a new chapter in both design and social symbolism. For new collectors, this coin offers an accessible yet fascinating entry point into numismatics. Understanding its varieties, background, and subtle details can make a big difference in identifying 1979 dollar coin value and building a meaningful collection.

Background and Significance of the 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar

The Susan B. Anthony dollar was introduced in 1979 as part of a broader effort to modernize U.S. coinage. The larger Eisenhower dollar (1971–1978) had proven unpopular due to its bulky size, making it inconvenient for daily use. The new smaller-sized dollar aimed to fix that — easy to carry, easier to spend.

On the obverse, the coin features Susan B. Anthony, a leading advocate for women’s voting rights. The reverse depicts an eagle landing on the moon, echoing the design used on the Eisenhower dollar to honor the Apollo 11 mission. This blend of social progress and technological achievement reflects the spirit of late-20th-century America.

Key Specifications:

Despite the innovation, the public response was lukewarm. The coin’s similar size and color to the Washington quarter caused confusion, and many consumers rejected it in favor of paper dollars. Still, the 1979 issue remains historically important as the first small-size U.S. dollar coin and the first to honor a real woman — a landmark in American coin design.

Why Collectors Value the 1979 Issue

While the coin never achieved commercial success, it became a numismatic favorite for several reasons:

• It represents a turning point in U.S. minting — from traditional to modern dollar coinage.

• It offers multiple varieties within one year, giving beginners a chance to study differences and hunt for valuable versions.

• Its connection to Susan B. Anthony and the women’s suffrage movement adds historical and cultural depth.

Even for novice collectors, the 1979 dollar provides an educational and collectible experience — an ideal balance of affordability, symbolism, and technical variety.

Key Varieties of the 1979 Dollar Coin

For a coin minted in massive quantities, the 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar offers surprising depth for collectors. Its varieties—particularly the Narrow Rim and Wide Rim types—define its desirability and value. Recognizing these differences is essential for anyone hoping to find hidden worth in pocket change or coin rolls.

Narrow Rim (Far Date)

The Narrow Rim or Far Date variety is the most common type. On these coins, the date numerals—especially the “1” in “1979”—sit noticeably farther from the coin’s rim. This version was struck early in production and widely released into circulation.

Quick identification:

• The rim appears thin and well-spaced from the digits.

• Readily found in circulation or mint sets.

• Typical collector value ranges from $1 to $5 in circulated condition.

While abundant, high-grade specimens graded MS67 or better remain rare and desirable, sometimes reaching $150–$165at auction.

Wide Rim (Near Date)

The Wide Rim, or Near Date, is the scarcer and more valuable variety. Midway through 1979, the Philadelphia Mint adjusted the die design to bring the date closer to the rim, creating a thicker border. This subtle difference significantly impacts value today.

How to recognize it:

• The “1” in “1979” appears very close to the rim.

• The border looks noticeably thicker than the Narrow Rim version.

• Found mostly in uncirculated sets or saved rolls.

Due to lower production numbers, this type commands strong collector interest. Values range from $25–$50 in mid-grade uncirculated condition and can exceed $1,000 in top grades like MS67+.

Proof and Mint Mark Differences

Besides rim varieties, mint marks add another layer of intrigue:

• 1979-P (Philadelphia): Contains both Narrow and Wide Rim types.

• 1979-D (Denver): Only the Narrow Rim variety exists.

• 1979-S Proofs (San Francisco): Struck for collectors using polished dies and planchets, these have mirror-like surfaces. Early and late proof types are distinguished by “Type 1” (blobby S) and “Type 2” (clear S) mint marks. Type 2 is scarcer and valued higher.

Approximate proof values:

Market Value Overview

How to Spot the Difference

For beginners, a small magnifying glass or loupe can reveal the crucial spacing between the date and rim. Under bright light, compare the thickness of the border and the distance of the “1” from the edge. The change may appear subtle, but once seen, it’s unmistakable.

Understanding Value and Collecting Strategies

For novice collectors, learning how to evaluate and preserve a 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar can unlock its true potential. While most examples remain common, certain varieties and high-grade coins stand out sharply in the market. Knowing what to look for—and how to verify it—can turn casual collecting into a rewarding pursuit.

What Determines the Value

1. Condition (Grade):
   The difference between a circulated coin and one in mint state is significant.

• Circulated: Typically worth face value ($1).

• MS63–MS65: Minor wear, visible luster; worth $5–$25.

• MS67+: Exceptional strike and surface preservation; may exceed $1,000 for the Wide Rim type.

2. Variety:
   The Wide Rim (Near Date) remains the star of the series. Even lightly circulated examples attract collectors for their scarcity compared to the Narrow Rim.

3. Proof Issues:
   1979-S Type 2 Proofs with clear “S” mint marks are coveted. Their sharp details and mirrored fields make them an affordable yet elegant addition to any collection.

4. Mint Errors:
   Look for off-center strikes, double dies, or planchet defects. While uncommon, confirmed mint errors have fetched hundreds of dollars.

Collecting Tips for Beginners

• Inspect Carefully: Use a 5x–10x magnifier to study the rim spacing and date alignment.

• Handle Properly: Always hold coins by the edges to prevent fingerprints or scratches.

• Use Coin Holders: Airtight holders or archival-quality flips protect surfaces and prevent oxidation.

• Document Everything: Keep notes about each coin’s variety, condition, and source—valuable for resale or appraisal.

• Grade When Unsure: Professional grading services like PCGS or NGC can authenticate and preserve long-term value.

Using Technology: The Coin ID Scanner App

Modern collecting benefits greatly from precision tools. The Coin ID Scanner app, available on Android and iOS, allows instant coin recognition through image analysis.

Core advantages include:

• Photo-based identification of coins using AI image matching.

• Detailed data such as mint year, mark, diameter, weight, metal composition, and current value.

• Digital portfolio management for organizing your collection by country, denomination, or rarity.

• Extensive database with over 187,000 coins and a smart AI Coin Helper for verification.

By using this app, collectors can quickly confirm if their 1979 dollar is a Wide Rim, check market trends, and track value fluctuations—all in one place.

From Curiosity to Expertise

The 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar is an ideal starting point for anyone entering the world of numismatics. Its modest entry cost, clear variety distinctions, and historical significance offer both education and enjoyment.
By learning how to identify rim types, recognize proof details, and use digital aids like Coin ID Scanner, collectors can confidently evaluate their coins and spot opportunities others might overlook.
In a field built on precision and discovery, even a single 1979 dollar can spark a lifelong appreciation for the artistry and history behind every coin.