Michael D. writes: I received from the Post Office in change, a Susan B.Anthony Dollar that has a date on it showing 1999. I was wondering if they started making these again for that year, or if it was a misprint when first minted and worth money? I am really confused about this, so if you can help that would be greatly appreciated.
Yes, they made SBA dollars in 1999. There was more demand for dollar coins than what was available at the Treasury. The ’99 mintage made up the shortfall. SBA’s are now replaced by the Sacagawea, Native American and Presidential dollars. All the coins are identical in size and weight and electrical properties and all will continue to circulate. The new dollar is easier to identify because of its brassy, gold color and its lack of edge reeding.
Below is the history of the Susan B. Anthony dollar:
- 1979P, 1979D, 1979S (proof only)
- 1980P, 1980D, 1980S (proof only)
- 1981P&D (only released in mint sets, never circulated) 1981S (proof only)
- 1999P, 1999D, 1999P (proof)
P=Philadelphia Mint D=Denver Mint
Many people are surprised to learn that dollar coins circulate. Years ago, they were “discovered” by many municipalities around the U.S. as a great transportation token. Also, by that bus, train or subway station are vending machines that take the coin. Lunch money for school kids is less likely to be lost if given as a dollar coin. It is also a great “tip” coin. One doesn’t have to take out a wallet to pay luggage handlers.
Alas, not everyone is aware. I watched with consternation as a cocktail waitress perused my SBA dollar tip, tossed it on the floor and announced with great indignation that she didn’t accept Canadian money!
