The 1981-S Type 1 Susan B. Anthony Dollar is worth anywhere from $2 in circulated condition to over $40 or more in pristine mint state, making it one of the more interesting late-era SBA coins to find in an old collection or change jar.
If you’ve come across one of these coins and aren’t sure what you’re holding, you’re not alone. Millions of Susan B. Anthony dollars were minted but rarely spent, which means many ended up in drawers and shoeboxes across the country. A quick way to get started is by using a free coin identifier app to confirm exactly what you have before looking up values.
What Makes the 1981-S Type 1 Different from Other SBA Dollars
The 1981-S Susan B. Anthony Dollar was produced at the San Francisco Mint and came in two distinct varieties: Type 1 and Type 2. The Type 1 is identified by a “Filled S” mintmark, where the loops of the “S” appear to be connected or filled in. This is in contrast to the Type 2, which has a “Clear S” with more defined, open loops.
At first glance, these two types look almost identical. But to collectors, the distinction matters quite a bit. Type 1 coins are generally considered the more common of the two, which affects their value on the market.
The 1981-S coins were only issued as part of proof sets and were never released into general circulation. That means every genuine 1981-S dollar you encounter should have a mirror-like proof finish. If yours looks dull or worn, it’s worth double-checking the mint mark — it may be a Philadelphia or Denver coin instead.
How Much Is the 1981-S Type 1 Worth Right Now
Because the 1981-S Type 1 SBA dollar was only made as a proof coin, its value is tied closely to its condition and grade. Proof coins that have been well-preserved in their original packaging tend to carry the most value.
You can browse current market prices and auction records for 1981 Susan B. Anthony dollars to get a real-time sense of what buyers are paying. Prices can shift based on demand, recent auction results, and the overall coin market.
Here’s a general value guide based on condition:
| Grade / Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Proof-60 (Light wear or marks) | $2 – $5 |
| Proof-65 (Gem Proof) | $5 – $12 |
| Proof-67 (Superb Gem) | $15 – $30 |
| Proof-69 or PR-70 (Near Perfect / Perfect) | $35 – $50+ |
Keep in mind that coins graded and certified by PCGS or NGC tend to sell for more than raw, ungraded examples.
How to Check If Your Coin Has Extra Value
If you believe your 1981-S Type 1 SBA dollar is in exceptional condition, it’s worth having it professionally evaluated. Grading services like PCGS and NGC provide certified grades that can significantly increase a coin’s sale price and buyer confidence.
Before sending it off, you can use CoinKnow to get a preliminary idea of what your coin might be worth. CoinKnow is a popular app among everyday collectors because it’s easy to use — just snap a photo and get instant information about your coin’s history, mint mark, and estimated value.
You can also explore a detailed 1981 dollar value breakdown by mint and condition to compare your coin against current pricing data before deciding whether to sell, hold, or get it graded.
Tips for Selling Your 1981-S Type 1 Susan B. Anthony Dollar
If you’re looking to sell, there are a few options worth considering. Online platforms like eBay, Great Collections, and Heritage Auctions are popular places where collectors actively buy SBA proof coins. Coin shows and local dealers are also solid options, especially if you want payment on the spot.
One thing to remember: always compare prices before accepting an offer. Dealers typically buy below retail value, so knowing the going rate gives you better negotiating power.
CoinKnow can help you track current values and even give you a sense of what similar coins have sold for recently. Having that data on hand puts you in a much stronger position whether you’re selling in person or online.
FAQ
Q: How do I tell if my 1981-S is Type 1 or Type 2?
A: Look closely at the “S” mintmark under magnification. A Type 1 (Filled S) has loops that appear closed or filled in. A Type 2 (Clear S) has clearly defined, open loops. If you’re unsure, a coin app like CoinKnow or a local dealer can help you identify it quickly.
Q: Are all 1981-S Susan B. Anthony dollars proof coins?
A: Yes. The San Francisco Mint only produced 1981-S SBA dollars as proof coins for collector sets. They were never circulated for everyday use, so all genuine examples should have a mirror-like surface finish.
Q: Is the 1981-S Type 1 rare enough to be worth a lot of money?
A: Not particularly — it’s the more common of the two 1981-S varieties. However, examples graded PR-69 or PR-70 by top grading services can still fetch $35 to $50 or more, especially from serious SBA collectors.
