The 1999-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar is one of the most recognizable modern U.S. dollar coins because it marked the surprise return of the Susan B. Anthony series after a long production hiatus. The coin was minted at the Philadelphia Mint and bears a “P” mint mark, which appears above Susan B. Anthony’s shoulder. Although millions of coins were produced, demand from banks, collectors, and the public made this issue stand out. Today, it holds a special place among modern U.S. coins because it connects two dollar coin programs and represents a significant moment in American minting history.
Background of the Susan B. Anthony Dollar Series
The Susan B. Anthony Dollar was first introduced in 1979 as a smaller-sized alternative to the larger Eisenhower Dollar. It commemorated Susan B. Anthony, a prominent figure in the women’s rights movement. It was designed to honor Susan B. Anthony. Initial public reaction was mixed, as the coin’s size and color were often mistaken for a quarter. Production slowed after 1981, and circulation strikes ceased altogether for several years. The sudden return in 1999 was due to the depletion of existing dollar coin inventories.
Why the 1999-P Issue Was Discontinued
By the late 1990s, the U.S. Mint was preparing to introduce the Sacagawea dollar. However, banks still needed dollar coins for vending machines, transit systems, and government use. To meet short-term demand, the Mint decided to discontinue the Susan B. Anthony dollar again in 1999. Only the Philadelphia Mint produced this version, making the 1999-P Susan B. Anthony dollar the sole circulation issue of that year.
Mintage and Production Numbers
Approximately 29.6 million 1999-P Susan B. Anthony dollars were minted. While this figure is not extremely low, it is significantly lower than the millions of dollars minted in the series’ early years. This decent mintage level is one reason this coin receives more attention than the more common-dated Anthony dollars of 1979 or 1980.
Design Features and Appearance
The obverse features a right-facing portrait of Susan B. Anthony, with the inscription “LIBERTY” above it. Thirteen stars surround her portrait, representing the original colonies. The reverse depicts an eagle landing on the moon, a design derived from the Apollo 11 insignia. The coin is composed of a copper core and outer layers of manganese brass, giving it a silver-like appearance. It weighs 8.1 grams and measures 26.5 mm in diameter.
The 1999-P Susan B. Anthony Anthony Dollar Value Range
Value depends largely on the coin’s condition and whether it is uncirculated or certified. Circulated examples typically trade near face value, while higher-grade uncirculated pieces fetch a premium. Coins graded MS65 and above often command significantly higher prices due to collector demand and limited top-quality supply.
| Condition Grade | Typical Market Value |
|---|---|
| Circulated | $1.00 – $2.00 |
| Uncirculated | $4.00 – $8.00 |
| MS65 | $15.00 – $25.00 |
| MS67+ | $75.00 – $200+ |
Collector Demand and Popularity
Collectors love the 1999-P issue because it represents the last circulation strike of the Susan B. Anthony dollar. It also appeals to modern coin collectors who focus on short-lived series or transitional issues. Many collectors want to include this coin as a special date in a complete Susan B. Anthony dollar set.
Role in Modern U.S. Coinage History
The 1999-P Susan B. Anthony dollar plays a significant role in U.S. numismatic history because it directly led to the launch of the Sacagawea dollar in 2000. Without the temporary withdrawal of the Anthony dollar, the transition between programs would have been even more difficult. This makes the 1999-P issue a bridge between two major dollar coin designs.
Investment Perspective
From an investment perspective, the 1999-P Susan B. Anthony dollar is a valuable asset. The Anthony dollar is considered a stable modern collectible rather than a high-risk speculative coin. Lower-grade coins are plentiful, but the value of high-grade certified coins is slowly increasing. Long-term growth potential lies primarily in top-condition coins.
Final Words
The 1999-P Susan B. Anthony dollar remains one of the most interesting U.S. coins today due to its sudden return, fine mintage, and historical significance. While circulated coins are common, uncirculated and high-grade coins command true collectible value. Its status as the last circulation issue of the Susan B. Anthony series maintains continued interest among both new and experienced collectors.