It began as an ordinary day at a small, independently owned antique bookstore. Customers drifted in and out, browsing dusty shelves, flipping through old postcards, and dropping spare change into a little wooden donation box near the register. But one coin — a Susan B. Anthony dollar — would soon turn the quiet shop into the center of a viral mystery.
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A Coin Hiding in Plain Sight
Employees first noticed the coin when emptying the donation box at closing. At a glance, it looked like any other circulating dollar from 1979–1981 or 1999, with its distinct eleven-sided border and the bold portrait of women’s rights pioneer Susan B. Anthony. Most of these coins are common and only worth a dollar. But this one had something unusual.
The date was 1979, and the tiny mint mark below the portrait appeared to be “S.” That alone was enough to catch a coin enthusiast’s eye — San Francisco–minted Susan B. Anthony dollars include rare proof strikes and scarce varieties that collectors actively search for.
A closer examination revealed even more curiosity: the mint mark style looked slightly different from typical 1979 issues. Someone posted a photo online, asking if anyone could identify it. Within hours, the coin community took notice.
The Internet Takes Over the Investigation
Thousands of users, from professional graders to amateur treasure hunters, began comparing the bookstore coin to known varieties. The main question: Was this a 1979-S “Type 2” mint mark?
The Type 2 variety, identifiable by a clearer and more refined “S,” is far scarcer than Type 1. Type 2 proof coins often sell for significantly more than common issues, especially in top condition.
Comments flooded in:
- “You might have something rare here.”
- “Don’t clean it!”
- “Get it graded immediately.”
Soon the post had millions of views. The story spread beyond coin forums, reaching antiques groups, collectors’ pages, and even trending sections of social media.
From Donation Box to Potential Treasure
What made this story so compelling wasn’t just the possibility of value — it was where the coin was found. Antique stores are known for hidden gems, but donation boxes are usually filled with loose change, not potential collectibles worth far more than a dollar.
Mystery added another layer:
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Who dropped it in the box?
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Did they know what they had?
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Was it an accidental donation or intentional generosity?
No one came forward to claim it, and the bookstore decided to preserve the find rather than spend it.
What Makes Some Susan B. Anthony Dollars Valuable?
Most Susan B. Anthony dollars are still only worth face value, but a few traits stand out to collectors:
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Proof strikes (especially from San Francisco)
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Type 2 mint marks (1979-S and 1981-S)
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High-grade, untouched surfaces
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Minting errors, such as doubled dies or off-centers
A verified Type 2 can bring meaningful premiums at auction, especially when graded by PCGS or NGC.
Still Unsolved, Still Fascinating
As of now, the bookstore coin remains a mystery with no confirmed origin. Specialists have encouraged the shop owner to send it in for authentication, and local news outlets have covered the strange story of the “donation box dollar.”
Whether it turns out to be a rare variety worth hundreds — or simply an ordinary dollar with an interesting backstory — the viral excitement has already given it value in another way: it reminded people that history and curiosity can hide anywhere, even beneath a handful of spare coins.
FAQ Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Are Susan B. Anthony dollars valuable?
Most are worth only $1, but certain proof strikes, rare mint marks, and error coins can sell for much more.
What is a “Type 2” mint mark?
A Type 2 has a sharper, clearer “S” mint mark and is much scarcer than the common Type 1 variety.
How do I tell if mine is rare?
Check the mint mark and date, avoid cleaning the coin, and consider having it professionally graded.
Where are rare coins usually found?
Anywhere: donation boxes, antique shops, old collections, or even ordinary pocket change.
