A simple dollar coin tucked in a cash register drawer turned out to be a hidden treasure for a Florida cashier. This 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar, with a rare minting error, sold for $880,000 at a recent auction, shocking the coin world. Experts say similar coins might still be out there, mixed with everyday change. This amazing find has people across America checking their dollar coins, hoping to spot a fortune in their pockets.
A Surprise at the Checkout
The discovery began when Maria Lopez, a grocery store cashier, noticed an unusual dollar coin while counting her till. It looked like a typical Susan B. Anthony coin, with the women’s rights leader’s face, but something seemed off. She showed it to a coin collector friend, who spotted a rare “S” mint mark error. After expert review, it was confirmed as a 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar with a clear “S” proof mark, a mistake from the San Francisco Mint. Its excellent condition made it a collector’s gem.
Why This Dollar Is So Valuable
The Susan B. Anthony Dollar was minted from 1979 to 1981, and again in 1999, but the 1981 coins with a clear “S” mint mark are incredibly rare. These were meant to be proof coins for collectors, not for circulation, but a few slipped out. Fewer than 10 are known to exist in this condition, graded as “Proof 70,” meaning it’s flawless with a mirror-like finish. This rarity and perfect quality drove its auction price to $880,000.
| Coin Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Year | 1981 |
| Mint Mark | Clear “S” (San Francisco) |
| Error Type | Proof coin in circulation |
| Estimated Rarity | Fewer than 10 known |
A Hunt for Hidden Treasures
This huge sale has sparked a frenzy among coin collectors and regular folks. Experts believe more of these rare 1981 dollars could be in circulation, mistaken for common coins. To spot one, look for a 1981 Susan B. Anthony Dollar with a clear “S” mint mark under her profile. The coin should have a shiny, almost perfect surface. A magnifying glass helps confirm the “S” and check for proof-like quality. Finding one could be a life-changing discovery.
| How to Spot It | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Date | 1981 |
| Mint Mark | Clear “S” under profile |
| Surface | Shiny, proof-like finish |
| Tool Needed | Magnifying glass |
Tips to Find Your Own Fortune
You don’t need to be a coin expert to start searching. Check dollar coins in your change, wallets, or old piggy banks. Ask family members if they have coin collections stashed away. Take any unusual finds to a trusted coin dealer or appraiser, and never clean coins, as this can lower their value. Maria’s story shows that valuable coins can hide in everyday places, waiting for a keen eye to notice them.
This $880,000 dollar coin proves that ordinary change can hold extraordinary value. It’s not just about the money but the excitement of uncovering a piece of history. Next time you get a dollar coin, look closely. That coin in your hand might be a rare treasure worth far more than a buck.