A common misconception regarding the 1980 Susan B. Anthony dollar is its composition. Despite the "silver dollar" moniker often used colloquially for dollar coins, the 1980 issue contains no silver. Its composition is a copper-nickel clad alloy, specifically a core of pure copper with outer layers made of 75% copper and 25% nickel. Consequently, its value is not derived from precious metal content but rather from its numismatic condition, mint mark, and any potential die varieties.
The value of a 1980 Susan B. Anthony dollar is highly dependent on these factors. For coins that have been in circulation, their worth is typically just their face value of one dollar. However, uncirculated specimens that have been preserved in pristine condition command a premium. The coin was produced at three different mints, identifiable by a small mint mark on the obverse side, to the left of the bust: P (Philadelphia), D (Denver), and S (San Francisco).
For uncirculated coins from the Philadelphia (P) and Denver (D) mints, values can range from approximately $2.50 to over $40, with the price increasing significantly for higher grades, such as Mint State 67. The San Francisco (S) mint produced coins for both general circulation and special proof sets for collectors. The circulation strikes from San Francisco are valued similarly to their P and D counterparts. The proof versions, which feature a sharper strike and a mirror-like finish, are generally valued between $5 and $35, depending on their grade. For instance, a proof coin graded PR 65 might be worth around $5, while a near-perfect PR 70 could fetch a higher price. Some minor varieties exist for the S mint mark, such as a "Filled S" or "Clear S," though these do not typically result in a dramatic difference in value for the 1980 issue.
