Silver Dollars & Trade Dollars of the United States - A Complete Encyclopedia

1979-S Anthony Dollar

Coinage Context

Lower mintage: The production of 1979 Anthony dollars was lower at San Francisco than at the other two mints. Even so, there were too many for effective distribution, and millions remain in government storage today. In addition, Proofs were made for collectors.

Business strike production commenced on February 2, 1979. Proofs were minted later, beginning in July.

Numismatic Information

Availability: Business strike 1979-S Anthony dollars are readily available for a modest premium. Proofs were issued as part of Proof sets. Most have the so-called "Worn S Punch" mintmark, which is somewhat filled and indistinct at the inside of the top and bottom curves of the S. Quite a bit more elusive is the "Clear S," in which the interstices are open.

Varieties

Business strikes:
1. 1979-S. All are the same.

Proofs:
1. 1979-S Worn S Punch. The usually seen variety, with interior spaces of S mintmark appearing to be filled; from the use of a worn mintmark punch. It is believed (by Alan Herbert, as quoted by Walter H. Breen) that mintage of these took place from July to October. Probably about 80% to 85% of the mintage consisted of this style mintmark. One variety is from an over-polished die, and has the third star too small.
2. 1979-S Clear S. With interior spaces of S open.
Much scarcer than the preceding. It is believed that these were minted in November and December. Probably about 15% to 20% of the mintage consisted of this style mintmark.

Susan B. Anthony Proof Strike