A rare and historically significant Susan B. Anthony dollar was recently discovered tucked away in lost luggage at a small regional Nevada airport, and its estimated value is over $700,000.
This astonishing find has shocked both numismatists and casual observers, spotlighting how extraordinary treasures can surface in the most unexpected places.
The Remarkable Find
- Location: Small Nevada airport
- Found in: Lost luggage belonging to an unknown passenger
- Coin Type: Susan B. Anthony dollar, famed for featuring the women’s suffrage pioneer
- Estimated Value: Exceeds $700,000
Collectors are abuzz. Finding such a valuable error or rare-variant coin in abandoned luggage is a once-in-a-lifetime event.
Why This Coin Is So Valuable
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Mint Error / Rare Variant | Most Susan B. dollars are worth only face value, but certain rare varieties and mint errors (double strikes, rarities) can command extraordinary prices. |
| Pristine Condition | Coins in uncirculated or proof condition fetch top dollar in the marketplace. |
| Historic Significance | Honoring Susan B. Anthony, first real woman featured on U.S. coinage, adds emotional and historical value. |
How Rare Are High-Value Anthony Dollars?
Most Susan B. Anthony dollars were minted between 1979–81 and again in 1999 in large quantities—yet only a handful of rare variants exist. Some notable high-value coins include:
- 1979-P Wide-Rim / Near-Date coins
- Misstrikes or mule errors (e.g. struck on wrong planchet)
- Ultra-rare proof coins, especially from the 1999 revival series
Coins with such features can sell from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on condition.
What This Means for Lost-Luggage Finds
This case underscores a powerful truth: valuable collectibles can turn up anywhere. Coin collectors, dealers, and even airlines are now more alert to the potential in unclaimed luggage.
If you’ve recently lost coins or found intriguing ones, they might be worth professional appraisal.
What Collectors Should Do Next
If you think you might possess a rare coin:
- Inspect for anomalies: Check for unusual mint markings, rim style, or strange metal compositions.
- Evaluate condition: Consult a certified grader like PCGS or NGC.
- Appraise professionally: Bring coins to certified numismatists or reputable dealers.
- Protect your find: Store in proper holders to preserve condition and provenance.
The discovery of a $700,000+ Susan B. Anthony dollar in lost luggage is a thrilling reminder that extraordinary collectibles can appear in the least expected places.
Rarity, mint errors, and historical importance combine to give certain coins massive value. If you suspect you own a unique Susan B. Anthony dollar, it’s well worth having it examined by experts—your pocket change could hold a hidden fortune.
FAQs
How can a Susan B. Anthony dollar be worth so much?
Rare mint varieties, proof versions, and mint errors produce unique coins that sell for extraordinary sums—sometimes in the hundreds of thousands.
What makes a coin ‘rare’?
Factors include low mintage, minting mistakes, special proof production, and superb uncirculated condition.
What should I do if I find a rare coin?
Have it professionally graded, consult a reputable dealer, and use proper storage to maintain its value.