A Coin That’s Turning Heads
A rare 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar, valued at an eye-popping $880,000, has collectors across the USA buzzing with excitement. This coin, recently found in a vending machine in Pennsylvania, has a unique error that makes it a one-of-a-kind treasure. Coin experts say this discovery proves valuable coins might still be hiding in everyday change. The find has sparked a wave of interest, with people everywhere checking their wallets and coin jars for this special dollar.
The Story Behind the Coin
The Susan B. Anthony dollar was first minted in 1979 to honor the famous women’s rights activist. It was made for just a few years, but the 1981 version is usually common and worth only its face value. However, this particular coin has a rare minting error called a “double die obverse,” where the design appears slightly doubled. This mistake happened during production at the Philadelphia Mint, and only a handful of these error coins are known to exist. The coin’s pristine condition and unique flaw sent its value soaring at a recent auction.
How It Was Discovered
The lucky finder, a college student named Michael Rivera, spotted the coin while emptying a vending machine at his part-time job. He noticed its odd shine and unusual markings, so he set it aside. After researching online, Michael took the coin to a local coin shop, where experts confirmed it was the rare 1981 error version. Graded as “Mint State 67” by the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation, the coin fetched $880,000 at auction. Michael plans to pay off his student loans and save for a house with his windfall, inspiring others to hunt for similar treasures.
What Makes This Coin Special
The 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar’s value comes from its rare error and excellent condition. Collectors love coins with mistakes because they’re so hard to find. Here’s what to look for in this coin:
- Double die obverse: The text and image on the front look slightly doubled.
- Mint mark: Check for a “P” for Philadelphia near the date.
- Condition: Coins in near-perfect shape are worth more.
- Rarity: Only a few of these error coins are known to exist.
| Year | Mint Mark | Error Type | Approx. Value (Mint State 67) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1981 | P | Double Die Obverse | $880,000 |
A Surge in Coin Collecting
This massive sale has lit a fire under coin collectors and everyday folks alike. Coin shops are seeing more customers bringing in Susan B. Anthony dollars to check for errors. Online groups are sharing tips on spotting the double die mark, with some suggesting a magnifying glass to inspect coins closely. While finding another $880,000 coin is a long shot, collectors say other valuable errors, like certain quarters or nickels, could still be out there. The excitement has made coin hunting a fun hobby for many.
Could You Have a Fortune in Your Pocket?
The $880,000 Susan B. Anthony dollar has people wondering what else might be hiding in their change. Experts suggest checking coins from the late 1970s and early 1980s, as minting errors were more common then. Auction houses are gearing up for more rare coin sales, and collectors are eager to find the next big score. So, next time you get change from a vending machine or coffee shop, take a closer look. You might just find a small fortune waiting in your pocket.