Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the 1979 dollar coin, one of the most distinctive pieces in American numismatic history. This FAQ covers everything from identifying features to market values and collector tips for this unique U.S. circulation coin.

What is the 1979 dollar coin?

The 1979 dollar coin is the Susan B. Anthony dollar, the first U.S. circulation coin to feature a real historical woman rather than an allegorical figure. It was minted from 1979 to 1981, with a special production run in 1999. The coin features Portrait of Susan B. Anthony on the obverse and the Apollo 11 lunar lander on the reverse.

This coin was the first dollar coin minted for circulation since 1935, but it faced significant public resistance due to its similarity in size and color to the quarter.

Why was the 1979 dollar coin created?

The 1979 dollar coin was created to replace the dollar bill and reduce government printing costs. Dollar coins last significantly longer in circulation than paper currency, offering substantial long-term savings for the federal government. The Treasury Department hoped to modernize the currency system and improve vending machine functionality.

Despite the practical reasoning, the coin failed to gain public acceptance and was discontinued after 1981, with millions being melted down or stored in Federal Reserve vaults.

What are the identifying features of the 1979 dollar coin?

The 1979 dollar coin has several distinctive features: it is 26.5mm in diameter (slightly larger than a quarter), has a smooth edge, and is composed of a copper-nickel clad metal. The obverse displays Susan B. Anthony's portrait facing right with the inscriptions "LIBERTY," "1979," and "IN GOD WE TRUST." The reverse shows the Apollo 11 lunar lander with "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "ONE DOLLAR."

It weighs approximately 8.1 grams and has 75% copper and 25% nickel in its outer layers, with a pure copper core.

What is the value of a 1979 dollar coin today?

Most 1979 dollar coins in circulated condition are worth $1 to $3, essentially their face value. However, certain varieties and conditions can be worth significantly more. The 1979-P Wide Rim (also called the 1979-P Fillow) variety, where the date is closer to the rim, can be worth $10 to $50 in circulated condition.

Uncirculated examples typically sell for $5 to $15, while exceptional specimens in high grades like MS-65 can reach $100 or more at auction.

How do I determine if my 1979 dollar coin is valuable?

To determine your 1979 dollar coin's value, first identify the mint mark: coins without a mint mark were minted in Philadelphia (P), while those with a "D" are from Denver. The most valuable variety is the 1979-P Wide Rim, which has the date positioned closer to the rim edge compared to the normal 1979-P.

Check the coin's condition using the Sheldon Scale (MS-60 to MS-70 for uncirculated coins). Professional grading from services like PCGS or NGC provides the most reliable value assessment for valuable specimens.

Why was the 1979 dollar coin nicknamed the "Carter quarter"?

The 1979 dollar coin was nicknamed the "Carter quarter" or "Anthony dollar" because of its confusing similarity to the quarter dollar in size, color, and shape. The public found it difficult to distinguish from the 25-cent coin, leading to resistance and rejection in everyday commerce.

This nickname reflected both the administration that introduced it (President Jimmy Carter was in office when the coin debuted) and the visual confusion that plagued the coin throughout its short production run.

Are there rare varieties of the 1979 dollar coin?

Yes, several rare varieties exist for the 1979 dollar coin. The most notable is the 1979-P Wide Rim variety, where the date extends closer to the rim edge than on standard issues. Other varieties include the 1979-P Near Date (intermediate variety) and the 1979-S Type 2 proof variety with sharper details.

Proof issues were minted at the San Francisco Mint (marked with "S") and are valued higher than circulation strikes, especially in original government packaging.

How should I store and protect my 1979 dollar coins?

Store your 1979 dollar coins in non-PVC protective holders such as flips, slabs, or tubes made from inert materials. Avoid plastic bags or containers that contain polyvinyl chloride, as PVC chemicals can damage the coin's surface over time, causing cloudiness or greenish residue.

For valuable specimens, consider professional grading and encapsulation by PCGS or NGC, which provides both authentication and long-term protection in sonically sealed holders.

Final Thoughts

The 1979 dollar coin represents a unique chapter in American monetary history, serving as both a practical experiment in dollar coin circulation and a symbol of the changing role of women in public life. While the coin failed its primary mission of replacing the dollar bill, it has become a fascinating collectible item appreciated for its historical significance and the story it tells about public perception and currency design.

For collectors, understanding the subtle die varieties and their values is essential for building a meaningful collection. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced numismatist, the 1979 dollar coin offers accessible entry points into the world of coin collecting with affordable prices and interesting historical context.