She Bought Coffee With a Susan B. Anthony Dollar: Imagine paying for a quick coffee and unknowingly handing over a coin worth nearly a million dollars. That’s what happened when a Susan B. Anthony dollar, used to settle a diner bill, turned into one of the most shocking coin sales ever, fetching $890,000 at auction. This incredible story shows how a simple coin can become a life-changing treasure.
The Unbelievable Journey of a Coin
A Regular Day at the Diner
It all began at the Cozy Corner Diner in rural Ohio. A woman stopped by for a sandwich and coffee, and when her $9.50 bill came, she paid with cash, including a few coins. Among them was a Susan B. Anthony dollar, which looked like an ordinary quarter to the cashier. No one knew this small coin was anything special.
A Surprise Discovery
Weeks later, coin experts realized this wasn’t just any Susan B. Anthony dollar—it was a rare gem. When it went to auction, it sold for a jaw-dropping $890,000, far surpassing the usual value of these coins, which rarely go above $20,000.
Why Was This Coin Worth So Much?
Several reasons made this coin a collector’s dream:
Near-Perfect Condition
Coins are graded on a “Mint State” (MS) scale, and higher grades like MS67 are incredibly rare. This coin was in almost flawless condition, making it highly valuable.
Some Susan B. Anthony dollars, like the 1979-P “Wide Rim” variety, are prized for their rare designs or minting errors. This coin had special traits that set it apart from common ones.
An Amazing Story
The fact that it was used for a simple coffee purchase gave it a unique charm. Collectors love coins with fascinating stories, and this one’s journey from a diner to an auction block was unforgettable.
Rising Popularity
Interest in coins featuring women in U.S. history is growing. As the first U.S. coin to show a real woman, Susan B. Anthony dollars are gaining attention among collectors.
What Are Susan B. Anthony Dollars?
A Brief History
Minted from 1979 to 1981 and again in 1999, these coins honor Susan B. Anthony, a key figure in the women’s rights movement. Designed by Frank Gasparro, the coin shows Anthony’s portrait on one side and an eagle from the Apollo 11 mission on the other. However, its similarity to a quarter caused confusion, and many coins ended up unused in government storage after the Sacagawea dollar became more popular in 2000.
Coin Details
- Material: Copper-nickel mix (75% copper, 25% nickel)
- Size: 26.5 mm wide
- Weight: 8.1 grams
- Edge: Reeded (ridged)
How Much Are These Coins Usually Worth?
Most Susan B. Anthony dollars aren’t worth much:
- Used coins: $1 to $10
- High-quality uncirculated (MS65-MS66): $250 to $1,900
- Rare varieties or proofs: Up to $21,600 for some 1979-P Wide Rims in top condition
This $890,000 sale broke all records, making the Susan B. Anthony dollar a star in the coin-collecting world.
The Magic of a Coin’s Story
What made this coin truly special wasn’t just its rarity—it was its journey. Going from a diner counter to a record-breaking auction gave it a unique “provenance,” or history, that collectors find irresistible. A great story can turn an ordinary coin into something extraordinary.
Tips for Coin Collectors
This incredible sale is a reminder to check your coins carefully:
- Look for rare varieties, like the 1979-P Wide Rim.
- Coin condition is key—professionally graded coins are worth more.
- A coin’s backstory can boost its value significantly.
- Coins tied to women in history are becoming more popular.
Conclusion: Check Your Change!
This Susan B. Anthony dollar’s journey from a diner to a million-dollar auction shows the hidden potential in everyday coins. It’s a reminder to take a closer look at your change—you never know when a small coin might hold a big story. As interest in women-themed coins grows, the Susan B. Anthony dollar is now a shining star in numismatic history. So, next time you pay for coffee, check your coins. You might just have a treasure in your pocket!