Numismatic

1981-S Susan B. Anthony Dollar BU

---

The 1981-S Susan B. Anthony dollar represents a fascinating chapter in modern United States coinage. Strikingly different from the larger silver dollars of the past, this coin was designed as a compact, small-sized dollar. This particular specimen comes from the San Francisco Mint, denoted by the 'S' mint mark positioned discreetly behind the neck of the obverse subject. It remains in Brilliant Uncirculated condition, preserving its original luster and sharp details just as it looked when it left the coining press. The obverse of the coin features a portrait of Susan B. Anthony, the pioneering advocate for women's suffrage. Surrounding her likeness are the inscriptions 'IN GOD WE TRUST' and the date '1981'. This portrait was created by designer Frank Gasparro, who also designed the reverse of the coin. For the reverse, Gasparro adapted the famous Apollo 11 insignia to celebrate America's achievements in space. The design depicts an eagle carrying an olive branch as it lands on the surface of the moon, with the Earth visible in the background. The reverse inscriptions include 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', the Latin motto 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', and the denomination 'ONE DOLLAR'. This combination of a civil rights pioneer on one side and a monumental leap in space exploration on the other makes the 1981-S dollar a compelling piece of American design.