If you are evaluating Susan B. Anthony proof dollars, this guide highlights five strong options that balance historical appeal with condition and value potential. These selections target collectors seeking rare finishes, clear strike quality, and mint-specific details. The top picks are suited for seasoned numismatists, first-time proof buyers looking for key dates, and investors aiming to diversify a smallproof collection. The table below summarizes the chosen products to help quick comparisons.
| Product | Key Feature | Mint/Year | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1) 1979 S Susan B Anthony Gem Proof Dollar | Gem proof finish, sharp details | 1979-S | Collectors prioritizing pristine proof surfaces |
| 2) 1980 Year Set BU & Proof 4 Coin Lot | Complete year set with proof and business strike | 1980 | Compact set for multi-year interest |
| 3) 1981 S Type 1 Susan B Anthony Dollar Choice Proof | Choice proof condition | 1981-S | Proof enthusiasts seeking Type 1 details |
| 4) 1981 -S Susan B Anthony Proof Dollar Type 2 | Deep Cameo, high-grade | 1981-S | High-contrast proofs for display |
| 5) 1979 S Susan B Anthony GEM Proof Dollar | Gem Proof with inert holder | 1979-S | Guarded condition with storage-friendly packaging |
1979 S Susan B Anthony Dollar 1979-1981 Proof
Best for serious collectors seeking a complete run in Gem Proof condition. This 1979-1981 Philadelphia San Francisco Mint sequence features sharp devices and mirrored fields, ideal for display and study. The San Francisco strike is a specific detail that appeals to date-and-mmint connoisseurs.
- Mint: San Francisco (S)
- Finish: Gem Proof
- Includes: 1979-1981 SBA Proof dollars
Best for: a buyer who wants a complete proof run from this era without purchasing separate pieces. Limitation: availability can be limited as a set unit.
1980 P D S S Susan B Anthony Dollar year set BU & Proof 4 Coin Lot
Better for buyers seeking a year-specific package that combines business strikes and proofs. The 1980 set includes San Francisco (S), Philadelphia, and Denver issues. The mixed finish provides a broader view of minting styles within one year.
- Includes: 1980 year set, proof coin, business strikes
- Best for: new collectors building a year-based SBA collection
- Limitation: mixed condition across coins can affect uniform display
1981 S Type 1 Susan B Anthony Dollar Choice Proof SBA
Choose this if you want Type 1 design characteristics with Choice Proof grade. The listing notes stock-photo fidelity, but the item is presented as a high-quality proof option for Type 1 SBA dollars.
- Finish: Choice Proof
- Type: 1981-S Type 1
- Best for: collectors focused on early 1980s Type 1 SBA designs
Caution: verify that the coin matches the advertised quality before purchase due to image-based listings.
1981 -S Susan B Anthony Proof Dollar Type 2
Best for advanced collectors seeking deep cameo contrast. This 1981-S Type 2 SBA proof is described with deep mirrored fields and frosted devices, making it a centerpiece for display and expertise on proof finishes.
- Grade/Appearance: PR69 Deep Cameo per listing
- Finish: Deep Cameo proof
- Best for: high-contrast display needs and Type 2 design focus
Caution: PCGS/DCAM verification in listings should be checked; natural variability can occur in proof surfaces.
1979 S Susan B Anthony GEM Proof Dollar
Best for a compact, high-quality single-year proof piece. The 1979-S Gem Proof SBA dollar is described as a gem finish, typically accompanied by inert packaging to protect the surface.
- Year: 1979
- Mint: San Francisco (S)
- Best for: ready-to-display single-year gem proofs
Limitation: stock photos may not perfectly reflect surface quality; confirm with the seller’s photos if possible.
Buying Guide
- Purpose of purchase: Are you collecting by year, by mint type, or aiming for top-tier proof finishes? Align your choice with your goal.
- Proof vs. business strike: Proof coins offer more mirrored fields and frosted devices; business strikes are typically less flashy but easier to acquire in bulk.
- Mint marks and varieties: Special attention to Type 1 vs Type 2 SBA dollars and the S-mint proofs can affect rarity and display contrast.
- Condition grading: Gem and Choice proofs command stronger visual appeal; verify grade claims against images and certificates where possible.
- Storage considerations: Keep proof coins in inert or protective holders to maintain surface integrity; some listings note inert packaging.
- Seller reputation: For high-value items, prefer listings that clearly state coin specifics and offer return policies or authentication notes.
FAQ
- What is a proof coin?
Proof coins are struck with a special process to produce highly polished fields and frosted devices, resulting in sharp contrast and mirror-like surfaces.
- What does Type 1 vs Type 2 mean for Susan B. Anthony dollars?
Type 1 and Type 2 refer to design and die variations used in different production runs; some collectors prefer one type for its unique features.
- Is a San Francisco (S) mint mark more valuable than a Philadelphia (P) or Denver (D) in SBA proofs?
Value depends on rarity, condition, and demand; some SBA proofs from S-mint runs are sought after for their limited production and distinctive strike.
- Should I buy a complete year set or individual proofs?
A complete year set can offer convenience and a curated collection, while individual proofs allow targeted focus on preferred mint marks or years.
- What should I look for in high-grade SBA proofs?
Inspect for deep mirrors, frosted devices, minimal contact marks, and consistent strike quality across the devices and lettering.
- Do these listings include authentication or certificates?
Some listings mention stock photos or third-party grade references; verify whether a certificate or guarantee is provided before purchase.