Top U.S. Rare Dollar Coins
Welcome to a fascinating journey into the world of rare American coins.
Some coins may look ordinary at first glance…
But to collectors and investors, they represent history, artistry, and life-changing value.
In this complete guide, we explore:
- The 1979-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar
- The 2000-D & 2001-P Sacagawea “Golden” Dollars
- The 1978 Kennedy Half Dollar (No Mint Mark)
- The 1978 Eisenhower Dollar (No Mint Mark)
Each coin hides a story of rarity, symbolism, and astonishing market demand.
Let’s begin. 
1979-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar – Worth Up to $385,000+
History & significance 
Introduced in 1979, the Susan B. Anthony dollar became:
- The first U.S. circulating coin to feature a real woman
- A tribute to the legendary women’s rights leader
- A symbol of equality, progress, and reform
It replaced the large Eisenhower dollar and was designed to be more practical for everyday use.
Design features 
Obverse (front):
- Susan B. Anthony portrait
- 13 stars (original colonies)
- “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST”
Reverse (back):
- Eagle landing on the Moon
- Inspired by the Apollo 11 mission
Edge:
- 11-sided rim (unique among U.S. coins)
Mint mark:
- “P” = Philadelphia Mint
Why collectors pay so much 
Although millions were minted:
- Very few survive in mint-state or proof-like condition
- Circulation caused heavy wear
- High-grade examples are extremely scarce
Market value 
- Average circulated: face value to small premium
- High-grade / pristine condition:
Up to $385,000
Collector tips 
- Handle with gloves
- Never clean the coin
- Store in capsules or slabs
- Look for Wide Rim / Near Date varieties
- Consider PCGS or NGC certification
2000-D Sacagawea “Golden Dollar” – Gold-Plated Versions Worth Up to $700,000+
Background story 
Introduced in 2000, this coin honors:
Sacagawea, the Shoshone guide of the Lewis & Clark expedition.
It replaced the Susan B. Anthony dollar and marked the dawn of the new millennium.
Design highlights 
Front:
Sacagawea carrying her infant son, Jean Baptiste
Back:
Soaring eagle 
– symbol of freedom & exploration
Composition:
- Copper core
- Manganese-brass outer layer (golden color)
Mint mark:
- “D” = Denver Mint
What makes it valuable 
- Gold-plated private issues
- Exceptional uncirculated condition
- Strong collector demand
- Cultural and historical importance
Market value
- Normal circulated: $1 – $5
- High-grade gold-plated versions:
$700,000+
2001-P Sacagawea Dollar – Rare Gold-Plated Examples Worth Up to $800,000+
Why this year matters 
- Continued early production of the series
- Strong strike quality from Philadelphia Mint
- Many special gold-plated collector issues exist
Key features
- “P” mint mark under IN GOD WE TRUST
- Brilliant golden finish
- Smooth edge
- 26.5 mm diameter
- 8.1 g weight
Market value
- Circulated: $1 – $3
- Brilliant uncirculated: up to $230,000
- Gold-plated / proof-like examples:
$500,000 – $800,000+
Investor tips 
- Store in airtight holders
- Avoid fingerprints
- Watch for error strikes
- Buy only from reputable dealers
1978 Kennedy Half Dollar (No Mint Mark) – Worth Up to $600,000+
History 
First issued in 1964 after President John F. Kennedy’s assassination, this coin became a symbol of:
- National unity
- Remembrance
- American leadership
The 1978 issue marked a later era of the series and is highly desirable in top condition.
Identifying features
- No mint mark = Philadelphia
- Bust of JFK
- Heraldic eagle on reverse
- Copper-nickel composition
Market value
- Circulated: low value
- Mint-state / proof-like:
$450,000 – $600,000+
1978 Eisenhower Dollar (No Mint Mark) – Worth Up to $700,000+
Why it is special 
- Final year of Eisenhower dollar production
- End of large-size circulating dollar coins
- Honors President Dwight D. Eisenhower
- Features Apollo 11 Moon landing design
Design
Front: Eisenhower portrait
Back: Eagle landing on the Moon
Market value
- Circulated: small premium
- Exceptional examples:
Up to $700,000
Preservation tips
- Avoid moisture
- Do not polish
- Use soft holders
- Check rim condition and luster
Final Thoughts
These coins prove one powerful truth:
Ordinary change can hide extraordinary wealth.
From the trailblazing Susan B. Anthony dollar…
To the golden Sacagawea series…
To the historic Kennedy and Eisenhower issues…
Each coin carries:
- American heritage
- Artistic brilliance
- Investment potential
Before spending your change, look closely.
Your next dollar coin could be worth more than a luxury home.
