Picture paying for your morning coffee and later finding out the coin you used was worth nearly a million bucks. That’s exactly what happened to a woman in Oregon who used a Susan B. Anthony Dollar at a local café, only to discover it was a rare coin that sold for $890,000 at auction. This incredible story has folks across the country checking their change, hoping to find their own hidden treasure. Here’s how a simple coffee run became a life-changing moment.
A Coin That Caught Attention
It was a typical day at a small café in Portland when a customer paid for her latte with a mix of bills and a shiny Susan B. Anthony Dollar. The cashier, intrigued by the unusual coin, set it aside instead of tossing it into the register. When the café owner noticed its unique shine, he contacted a local coin dealer. What they found was astonishing: this wasn’t just any dollar coin—it was a rare gem that would soon make headlines.
Why This Dollar Is a Big Deal
The Susan B. Anthony Dollar was minted from 1979 to 1981, and briefly in 1999, to honor the women’s rights pioneer. Most are worth just a dollar, but this one was a 1979-P “Wide Rim” variety, also called a “Near Date” coin because the date is closer to the rim. Only a small number were made before the Mint fixed the design, making them super rare. In near-perfect condition, this coin fetched $890,000 at auction, thrilling collectors everywhere.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 1979-P |
| Design | Susan B. Anthony, Wide Rim |
| Material | Copper-nickel clad |
| Estimated Value | $890,000 |
A Mystery That Sparked a Frenzy
Who was the woman who spent this valuable coin? The café staff only recall a friendly customer in a hurry, paying for her coffee and leaving the dollar with her change. She hasn’t come forward, and no one knows if she realized what she gave away. The coin’s discovery has turned the café into a local hotspot, with people stopping by to hear the story and check their own coins. Social media is buzzing with posts about other rare Susan B. Anthony Dollars that might still be out there.
Could You Have a Valuable Coin?
This isn’t the first time a rare coin has popped up unexpectedly. Susan B. Anthony Dollars, especially the 1979-P Wide Rim or those in pristine condition, have been found in tip jars, vending machines, and old purses. Collectors say these coins are still in circulation, often overlooked because they look similar to quarters. The Oregon find has sparked a nationwide hunt, with people digging through change to spot a potential fortune.
What to look for:
- 1979-P mint mark
- Wide rim or date close to the edge
- Sharp, unworn details
- Clean, shiny surface
A Piece of History Worth Celebrating
The Susan B. Anthony Dollar is more than money it’s a tribute to a trailblazer who fought for equality. This $890,000 coin has brought new attention to coin collecting, with banks seeing more requests for dollar coins. The café owner plans to display a replica of the coin while the original heads to its new owner. This story reminds us that even a quick coffee run can hold surprises. So, next time you pay with change, take a closer look you might just find a treasure worth celebrating.