Imagine digging through a jar of loose change and pulling out a shiny dollar that could fetch thousands at auction. That’s the thrill of the 1999-P Susan B. Anthony Liberty $1 coin. As one of the rarest twists in U.S. coin history, this little powerhouse honors a women’s rights pioneer while packing serious value for rare coin collectors. Stick around to uncover its story, sky-high prices, and tips to spot a winner in your pocket change.
What Is the 1999-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar Coin?
The 1999-P Susan B. Anthony dollar is a small, copper-nickel coin struck at the Philadelphia Mint. It features suffragist Susan B. Anthony on the obverse with “LIBERTY” arched above her. The reverse shows an eagle landing on the moon, nodding to Apollo 11.
This $1 coin measures just 26.5 mm across—smaller than a half dollar. It’s part of a short-lived series meant to replace paper dollars but revived in 1999 as a collector’s favorite.
A Quick History of the Susan B. Anthony Liberty Dollar
Born in 1979, the Susan B. Anthony dollar was America’s first circulating coin honoring a real woman. It aimed to cut costs on paper bills but flopped due to its quarter-like size.
Production halted after 1981. Then, in 1999, the Mint brought it back for uncirculated sets—just before the Sacagawea dollar debuted. The 1999-P run totaled 29,592,000 coins, but errors made some ultra-rare.
This revival marked an 18-year gap, the longest for any U.S. coin series.
Why This Valuable Old Coin Still Turns Heads Today
Despite high mintage, the 1999-P shines in the rare coin world thanks to mint errors. A standard circulated piece? Worth $1-2. But pristine or flawed versions? They soar.
Collectors love its feminist legacy and scarcity in top grades. In a market where old coins fetch premiums, this one’s blend of history and rarity keeps demand hot.
How to Hunt for and Collect These Rare Coins
Start simple: Check grandma’s change jar or estate sales. Buy certified coins from PCGS or NGC for authenticity.
Join forums like CoinTalk or attend shows to swap stories. Building a set? Pair it with other Susan B. Anthony dollars for a timeline of U.S. innovation.
The payoff? Not just value, but the joy of owning a slice of history.
Fascinating Facts and Auction Records
Did you know? The 1999-P was struck alongside Sacagawea blanks, leading to wild mules.
Here’s a quick look at record sales:
| Variety | Grade | Auction Price | Year Sold |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mule on Sacagawea Planchet | MS64 | $16,100 | 2006 |
| Standard MS | MS68 | $10,925 | Recent |
| Proof Deep Cameo | PR70 | $130 | 2025 |
And mintage comparison:
| Year/Mint | Mintage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1979-P | 3,677,175 | First year, high demand |
| 1999-P | 29,592,000 | Revival, error-prone |
| 1999-D | 11,776,000 | Denver counterpart |
These stats show why 1999 stands out among valuable old coins.
Expert Tips for Spotting High-Value Pieces
Look for golden hues—that screams Sacagawea mule error, worth thousands. Check edges for off-metal strikes.
Grade matters: Aim for MS65+. Use a loupe for die cracks or doubled letters.
Pro tip: Store in albums away from air—oxidation kills value. Consult graders early if you suspect rarity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 1999-P Susan B. Anthony dollar rare?
Not in circulated form, but errors and high grades make them prized rare coins.
What’s the average value of a 1999-P dollar coin?
$1-3 for worn ones; $10-20 for uncirculated. Errors? Up to $16,000+.
Where can I sell my Susan B. Anthony coin?
Try eBay, Heritage Auctions, or local dealers. Get it slabbed first.
Are there fake 1999-P dollars?
Yes, watch for poor strikes. Stick to certified sources.
Why was it called the “Liberty” dollar?
The obverse reads “LIBERTY,” tying to tradition while honoring Anthony.
In wrapping up, the 1999-P Susan B. Anthony Liberty $1 coin proves that valuable old coins hide in plain sight. From its trailblazing history to error-driven fortunes, it’s a must for any rare coin hobbyist. Dig into your stash today—your next big find might be staring back. Share your stories below, or explore more on Eisenhower dollars. Happy hunting!