The 1979 dollar coin, known as the Susan B. Anthony dollar, is a common source of confusion regarding its value and composition. A key point to understand is that despite the "dollar" denomination, these coins are not made of silver. They are composed of a copper-nickel clad, containing 75% copper and 25% nickel bonded to a pure copper core. Therefore, the coin has no intrinsic value based on precious metal content.
For the vast majority of 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollars, particularly those that have been in circulation, the value is simply their face value of one dollar. Banks will readily exchange them as legal tender. Even standard uncirculated coins from the Philadelphia (P), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S) mints typically only command a small premium over face value, often in the range of $2 to $10, depending on their specific condition or grade.
However, a specific and much rarer variety of the 1979 dollar coin is worth significantly more. Collectors seek out the 1979-P "Wide Rim" or "Near Date" variety. This version can be identified by the date's proximity to the coin's rim, which is noticeably thicker and flatter than on the common version. A genuine 1979-P Wide Rim dollar can be worth between $5 and $30, or even more, based on its condition. Additionally, for proof coins made for collectors, the 1979-S Type 2 "Clear S" variety is scarcer and more valuable than the more common Type 1 "Filled S" proof. In summary, while most 1979 dollars are worth only a dollar, certain rare varieties are valuable to collectors.
