The 1999-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar holds a special place in American coin collecting. Although the series itself was short-lived, this coin has gained increasing attention from collectors because it marked the final year of the Susan B. Anthony design and the return of small-size dollar coins after an 18-year gap. The 1999-P issue in particular carries historical significance, interesting varieties, and a value that continues to grow with collector demand. Whether you are new to coin collecting or looking to refine your existing collection, understanding the importance of this coin can help you appreciate why it stands out among modern U.S. coinage.
The History Behind the 1999-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar
The Susan B. Anthony Dollar was originally released in 1979 as the first circulating U.S. coin to feature a real woman. Despite its revolutionary design, the coin never gained popularity due to its resemblance to the quarter. As a result, the U.S. Mint stopped producing it after 1981, except for limited collector sets in 1999.
The revival of the Antony dollar in 1999 happened because of a nationwide coin shortage. The government needed dollar coins for vending machines, transportation systems, and federal facilities, but the Sacagawea Dollar was not yet ready for release. Therefore, the Mint resumed production of the familiar Anthony design for one final year.
The Philadelphia Mint struck millions of these coins, but the 1999-P issue remains notable because it marked the end of the series and is often collected as a standalone piece, especially in high-grade conditions.
Why Collectors Value the 1999-P Issue
While not rare in lower grades, the 1999-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar becomes desirable in mint state and proof-like conditions. Collectors appreciate it for several reasons: its status as the final year of issue, its relatively low mintage compared to earlier years, and its strong demand among those completing modern U.S. dollar coin sets.
Another important factor is that late-series coins often age differently in the collector market. As more new collectors enter the hobby, interest naturally grows in transitional-year coins, especially those marking an end of a design series.
Varieties and Errors Worth Noting
Like most modern coins, the 1999-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar has its share of interesting varieties and rare errors. Some attract significant premiums, particularly in certified conditions. Notable types include clipped planchets, off-center strikes, die cracks, and coins with extra metal or incomplete edges.
One sought-after variety is the wide-rim vs. narrow-rim design found on some Anthony dollars, though this is more common on the 1979 issues. For the 1999-P coin, it is the error strikes and high-grade mint state examples that typically bring higher value. Collectors often submit these coins for grading to identify whether they qualify for MS67 or MS68, which are the levels where premiums become significant.
Price Chart and Market Value
The value of a 1999-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar varies depending on condition, rarity, and whether it has been professionally graded. While circulated examples are common, the real interest lies in mint state and certified pieces.
Here is a simple overview of typical market values:
Circulated condition: Usually close to face value, around one to two dollars
Mint State MS63: Around five to eight dollars
Mint State MS65: Typically ten to twenty dollars
Mint State MS67: Can reach fifty dollars or more
Mint State MS68: Scarce and can command hundreds depending on auction demand
Error coins: Prices vary widely depending on type, often ranging from fifty to several hundred dollars
These price ranges change depending on collector interest, metal markets, and auction results. Coins with strong luster, minimal marks, and well-defined details tend to sell for higher amounts.
What to Look For When Buying One
When adding a 1999-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar to your collection, pay close attention to condition and strike quality. High-grade examples with clean surfaces and strong mint luster carry the most value. Look for sharp details in Susan B. Anthony’s portrait and the eagle on the reverse. Coins with mirrored surfaces or proof-like qualities are especially desirable.
It is also wise to examine the coin carefully for any unusual lines, cracks, or misaligned edges that could indicate an error. Many collectors choose to buy graded examples from recognized services such as PCGS or NGC to ensure authenticity and proper valuation.
Tips for Preserving Your Susan B. Anthony Coins
Proper storage is essential for maintaining the value of your coin. Use acid-free holders, airtight capsules, or archival-quality flips to prevent moisture, dust, and fingerprints from damaging the surface. Avoid cleaning the coin, as this can reduce its value significantly. Keeping the coin in a stable, controlled environment helps preserve its condition over time and protects long-term value.
Key Highlights
The 1999-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar marks the final release of the series
Its significance comes from its transitional role between the Anthony and Sacagawea dollar coins
High-grade mint state coins and error varieties attract strong collector interest
Values range from a few dollars to several hundred depending on condition and certification
Proper storage and careful buying can help collectors preserve value over time
Final Words
The 1999-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar may not be the rarest modern coin, but its historical importance, end-of-series status, and growing collector demand make it a valuable addition to any collection. Whether you focus on U.S. dollar coin series, enjoy collecting transitional-year issues, or simply appreciate well-struck modern coins, the 1999-P remains an accessible and rewarding piece to own. Its value continues to rise gradually as more collectors recognize its significance in American numismatic history, ensuring that it remains a popular and meaningful coin for years to come.
