A Coin Hiding in Plain Sight
A rare 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar, still floating around in circulation, could be worth a whopping $880,000 if you spot the right mark. This incredible coin was recently identified by a sharp-eyed cashier in Texas who noticed something odd while counting change. The coin, which looks like a regular dollar at first glance, has a unique feature that makes it a collector’s dream. This discovery has people across the country checking their wallets, hoping to find a fortune in their pocket change.
The Secret of the Susan B. Anthony Dollar
The Susan B. Anthony dollar, first minted in 1979, was made to honor the women’s rights pioneer. Most of these coins are worth just one dollar, but the 1981-P version with a “clear S” mint mark is a rare treasure. The “S” on this coin, struck at the Philadelphia Mint, is sharp and distinct, unlike the blurry “S” on common versions. This clear mint mark happened by mistake, making the coin extremely rare. Only a few are known to exist, and they’re still out there, waiting to be found.
How the Coin Was Spotted
The cashier, who prefers to stay anonymous, found the coin while sorting through a busy day’s cash at a small grocery store. The clear “S” mark caught her attention, so she set the coin aside instead of tossing it back into the register. She showed it to a local coin dealer, who confirmed it was the rare “‘81-P clear S” variety. The coin was sent to a grading service, which gave it an MS-66 rating, meaning it’s in near-mint condition. That high grade helped push its value to nearly a million dollars.
| Coin Details | Description |
|---|---|
| Year | 1981 |
| Mint | Philadelphia (P) |
| Variety | Clear S Mint Mark |
| Estimated Value | $880,000 |
| Condition | Mint State (MS-66) |
Why This Coin Is a Big Deal
The 1981-P clear S Susan B. Anthony dollar is valuable because so few were made. The clear mint mark was an error during production, and most of these coins were either melted down or never noticed. Collectors prize it not just for its rarity but also for its tie to American history, as the coin honors a key figure in the fight for women’s rights. In top condition, these coins can fetch huge sums at auction, with some experts saying this one could go for even more than $880,000.
A Frenzy to Check Change
This find has set off a coin-hunting craze. People are digging through change jars, checking vending machine returns, and even asking cashiers to look at their dollar coins. The Susan B. Anthony dollar is easy to overlook because it looks similar to a quarter, but now folks are paying closer attention. Coin experts say to check for the clear “S” on 1981 coins, as it’s the key to spotting this rare version. Local coin shops are buzzing with customers hoping their dollar coin is the next big find.
Could You Have the Next Big Coin?
The cashier who found the coin is still deciding what to do with her windfall. She’s gotten offers from collectors but is considering keeping it as a lucky keepsake. Meanwhile, the hunt is on for more of these rare dollars still in circulation. This story is a reminder to take a second look at your change you might be holding a small fortune. So, next time you’re paying for coffee or grabbing coins from your car, check for that clear “S” on a 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollar. It could change your life.
