Imagine finding a $2.8 million coin by accident—it just happened. A rare 1979‑P Susan B. Anthony dollar was discovered at Denver International Airport in a routine security checkpoint.
What looked like everyday change turned out to be an exceptional numismatic marvel, stunning collectors and travelers alike.
Here’s everything you need to know about this astonishing find, from how it was spotted, to its unique minting traits, valuation, and why even your pocket change might be hiding a fortune.
How the Coin Was Discovered
The discovery wasn’t the result of a treasure hunt—it was pure happenstance. A TSA agent, who also happened to be a casual coin collector, noticed something unusual during a standard baggage scan.
At first glance, it looked like an ordinary dollar coin, but upon closer inspection, the wide rim design immediately raised suspicion. It was set aside and sent to experts for verification.
Why This Coin Is So Valuable
The key to this coin’s jaw-dropping $2.8 million value lies in its rarity and mint condition:
- 1979‑P “Wide Rim” variant—a rare mint error where the date sits unusually close to the coin’s edge
- Near-mint condition, graded by PCGS as one of the finest-known specimens
- Fewer than 10 pristine copies have ever surfaced, making it one of the rarest Susan B. Anthony dollars in existence
This rare combination of minting error + flawless condition elevates the coin from collectible to priceless.
Valuation Breakdown
Here’s a snapshot of what makes this find so extraordinary:
| Feature | Details & Impact |
|---|---|
| Date & Mint | 1979, Philadelphia (P) |
| Minting Variation | Wide rim – instantly collectible |
| Condition | Nearly perfect, graded by PCGS |
| Known Examples | < 10 in this condition |
| Valuation | $2.8 million |
| Historical Context | Part of 1979–81 series honoring suffragist Susan B. Anthony |
How Did It End Up at the Airport?
Its origin remains a mystery. It could have been passed down in a forgotten family collection, accidentally circulating as change, or even actively carried by someone unaware of its true value. The coin was later transferred to a private auction house after federal unclaimed-object rules were applied.
Beltway Reactions & Collector Frenzy
News of this find has reignited interest in Susan B. Anthony dollars, especially rare variants. Coin communities are buzzing and encouraging people everywhere to check their pockets, jars, and piggy banks.
These coins were minted between 1979–1981 and again in 1999, but only select varieties—like the Wide Rim or penny-struck errors—are ultra-rare and could fetch hundreds of thousands or more.
Why It Matters
This discovery underscores a simple truth: treasures still exist in everyday life. It’s a poignant reminder that obsolete coinage—or forgotten pocket change—can sometimes hold immense historical and monetary value.
It also honors Susan B. Anthony’s legacy, making this a story of both female representation in numismatics and the importance of close attention to detail.
Visual Summary
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Where Found | Denver International Airport, in TSA baggage tray |
| Coin Description | 1979‑P Susan B. Anthony dollar with wide rim |
| Value | $2.8 million |
| Rarity Factors | Wide rim variant, mint condition, limited specimens |
| Authentication | Graded by Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) |
| Current Status | With numismatic experts, awaiting auction |
What Sets This Coin Apart
- First historical U.S. coin featuring a woman—Susan B. Anthony dollar commemorates the suffrage movement
- Wide rim error—a rare mint mistake that increases collector interest
- Mint condition rarity—one of the cleanest known examples in existence
- High collector demand—less than 10 coins in this grade, boosting auction value dramatically
This $2.8 million Susan B. Anthony dollar discovery at Denver Airport is a testament to the unexpected treasures hidden in plain sight. It’s a wake-up call to collectors and everyday people alike: your spare change could be worth a fortune.
If you come across an old dollar coin, especially a 1979 version, check for minting quirks and rim variations—it might just be your ticket to a multimillion-dollar payoff.
FAQs
How rare is the 1979‑P wide rim Susan B. Anthony dollar?
Extremely rare—it has a minting variation that’s only found in a handful of specimens, making it highly valuable.
Could other Susan B. Anthony dollars be worth a lot?]
Yes. Coins with errors—like double-strikes, misaligned rims, or struck on wrong planchets—can also be worth tens of thousands or more.
How can I check if my Susan B. Anthony dollar is valuable?
Look for mintmark “P”, inspect the rim spacing and date placement, and consider grading your coin through a reputable service like PCGS for confirmation.