1979 S Type 1 Susan B Anthony Dollar Value and How to Spot a Rare Mint Mark

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The 1979 S Type 1 Susan B Anthony Dollar is worth anywhere from $1.50 in circulated condition to over $100 in high-grade proof condition. While many of these small dollars are common, finding the right mint mark variation can significantly increase what a collector is willing to pay for your pocket change.

Everything You Need to Know About the 1979 S Type 1 Susan B Anthony Dollar

If you’ve recently found a small, silver-colored coin with a portrait of a woman on it, you likely have a Susan B. Anthony dollar. Introduced in 1979 to replace the bulky Eisenhower dollar, these coins were revolutionary but initially unpopular because they were easily confused with quarters. Today, however, they are a favorite among entry-level collectors. If your coin has a small “S” on the front, it was minted in San Francisco.

For many Americans, determining the exact worth of a coin found in a jar can be confusing. This is where using a top coin identifier app can save you hours of research. By simply taking a photo, you can confirm if your coin is the standard “Type 1” or the much rarer “Type 2” variety. Most 1979-S coins found in general circulation are standard proofs or business strikes that carry a small premium over face value.

While the “Type 1” is the more common version of the 1979-S proof, it still holds a special place in Washington’s minting history. When you use the CoinKnow app to track your collection, you’ll see that the value is heavily dependent on the “cameo” effect—the contrast between the frosted portrait and the mirror-like background. Uncirculated examples are always in demand for those trying to complete a full set of SBA dollars.

How to Distinguish the Type 1 Filled S from the Type 2 Clear S

In 1979, the San Francisco Mint used two different mint mark punches. The “Type 1” is often referred to as the “Filled S.” This is because the “S” mint mark looks a bit blob-like, with the loops of the letter filled in or poorly defined. This occurred because the punch used to create the coin dies was worn down. Later in the year, the mint replaced it with a much sharper, “Clear S” punch, known as Type 2.

Most people who find a 1979-S dollar in a proof set have the Type 1. To see the difference in market prices between these two, you can check this detailed breakdown of the 1979 Susan B Anthony dollar price guide. While the Type 2 usually commands a higher price, a high-quality Type 1 with “Deep Cameo” (DCAM) designation can still be quite valuable.

If you are unsure which one you have, the CoinKnow app uses advanced image recognition to help you zoom in on the mint mark. Type 1 coins are the “everyman’s” collectible—affordable, historical, and easy to find. However, don’t dismiss them; an “Ultra Cameo” Type 1 graded by a professional service like PCGS or NGC can still sell for surprising amounts at auction.

Current Market Value and Pricing for 1979 S Dollars

When looking at the current value of 1979 dollar coins, condition is the most critical factor. Most Susan B. Anthony dollars were minted for circulation, but the 1979-S was specifically produced as a Proof coin for collectors. This means it was struck with extra care on polished blanks. If your 1979-S looks dull or scratched, it might have been pulled from a proof set and spent as regular money.

A circulated 1979-S Type 1 will generally be worth closer to $1.50 or $2.00. However, if the coin is still in its original plastic government packaging, the value stays higher. Serious collectors look for “PR70” grades—which represent a perfect coin. Even a tiny hairline scratch invisible to the naked eye can drop the price from $100 down to $15.

Using CoinKnow helps you stay updated on these fluctuating market prices. Because the Susan B. Anthony series was only minted for a few years (1979, 1980, 1981, and 1999), the 1979-S remains one of the most frequently traded coins in the series. Below is a quick reference table to help you estimate what your coin might be worth based on its condition.

Coin Condition / Grade	Estimated Market Value
Circulated (Average Wear)	$1.25 – $2.00
Proof-65 (Attractive, minor flaws)	$5.00 – $8.00
Proof-69 (Nearly Perfect)	$15.00 – $25.00
Proof-70 Deep Cameo (Perfect)	$110.00 – $150.00

What to Look For When Hunting for Rare Varieties

To maximize the value of your 1979-S Type 1, you should look for coins that possess “Deep Cameo” features. This is characterized by a heavy, white frosting on Susan B. Anthony’s face and the eagle on the back, contrasted against a black, mirror-like field. These are the “cream of the crop” for Type 1 variants.

Another thing to check is errors. While rare on proof coins, occasionally you might find “clipped planchets” or “off-center strikes.” These errors can turn a $2 coin into a $200 coin instantly. Most everyday Americans won’t find these in their change, but they do show up in estate sales and old coin folders.

Always handle your 1979-S dollar by the edges. Fingerprints contain oils that can permanently etch into the surface of a proof coin, ruining its “Deep Cameo” finish and tanking its resale value. If you think you’ve found a high-grade specimen, consider placing it in a protective flip or capsule immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I tell if my 1979-S is a Type 1 or Type 2?

A: The Type 1 “Filled S” has a mint mark where the ends of the “S” are rounded and the center is almost touching the loops, making it look blurry. The Type 2 “Clear S” has very distinct, flat ends on the “S” and a clear field of space inside the loops.

Q: Is the 1979-S Susan B. Anthony Dollar made of silver?

A: No, these coins do not contain any silver. They are made of a copper-nickel clad composition (the same as modern quarters and dimes). Their value comes from their collectibility and condition, not their metal content.

Q: Can I spend a 1979-S dollar at the store?

A: Yes, they are legal tender and worth one dollar. However, since the 1979-S is a proof coin, it is worth at least a small premium to collectors, so it is better to sell it to a coin shop or keep it than to spend it at face value.

Q: Where is the mint mark located on the 1979 Susan B. Anthony Dollar?

A: The mint mark is located on the obverse (front) of the coin, just above Susan B. Anthony’s left shoulder (the right side of the coin from your perspective), near the border of her portrait.