Susan B. Anthony Dollar: In a remarkable turn of events, an ordinary-looking Susan B. Anthony dollar coin, accidentally sent through a laundry cycle, has made numismatic history. Discovered lodged inside a commercial dryer at a New Jersey laundromat, the coin recently sold at auction for an astonishing $39,500—far exceeding expectations. What seemed like a damaged piece of currency turned out to be an exceptionally rare mint error, captivating collectors and proving that hidden treasures can surface in the most unexpected places.
An Unexpected Discovery in a Laundromat
The coin’s story began when a laundromat owner, while cleaning out an old industrial dryer, found a worn dollar coin buried beneath lint and dust. Assuming it was just another damaged coin, he nearly discarded it into his change bucket. However, a sharp-eyed coin enthusiast using the facility noticed something unusual—the coin’s edges and surface didn’t match a standard Susan B. Anthony dollar. This observation led to further examination, revealing its true rarity.
A Rare Mint Error Unveiled
Upon closer inspection by a professional numismatist, the coin was identified as a 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar struck on a Jefferson nickel planchet—a blank meant for a five-cent coin, not a dollar. This minting error made the coin smaller, lighter, and devoid of the usual edge lettering. Such mistakes are highly prized by collectors, but finding one in circulation, especially after enduring a laundry cycle, is extraordinarily rare. Experts estimate only a handful of these error coins exist, with most already secured in private collections or museums.
Auction Frenzy and Record-Breaking Sale
After being authenticated by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), the coin became the star attraction at a Chicago auction. Initially expected to sell for $8,000–$10,000, excitement over its unique backstory and rarity drove bids to nearly $40,000. Collectors marveled at the coin’s journey, with one calling it a “once-in-a-lifetime find.” The sale underscored how even seemingly insignificant coins can hold immense historical and financial value.
Why This Coin Captures the Public’s Imagination
The Susan B. Anthony dollar, often dismissed due to its resemblance to the quarter, has never been a favorite in daily commerce. Yet, this story highlights how overlooked coins can conceal extraordinary value. It serves as a reminder that rare finds aren’t always locked away in vaults—they might be circulating in everyday life or, in this case, hiding in a laundromat dryer.
A Lesson for Aspiring Treasure Hunters
This incredible discovery encourages everyone to take a second look at their spare change. Mint errors, misprints, and unusual planchets can easily go unnoticed, but those who pay attention might stumble upon something extraordinary. While most coins won’t command five-figure sums, stories like this inspire curiosity and remind us that history—and value—can be found in the most mundane places.
Final Thoughts: A Coin With a Story to Tell
Unlike most high-value coins, which are prized for their pristine condition, this Susan B. Anthony dollar earned fame through its unusual journey—surviving a laundry cycle, near-disposal, and eventual recognition as a numismatic treasure. Its story proves that rarity and history aren’t always about perfection, but sometimes about resilience and chance. So next time you empty your pockets or clean out a dryer, take a closer look—you might just hold a piece of history in your hands.