In a twist that feels straight out of a movie, a seemingly ordinary Susan B. Anthony dollar coin, casually used to pay a toll decades ago, has now earned a permanent spot in a museum. What looked like loose change to a driver turned out to be a rare collectible, now celebrated for its historical and numismatic significance.
The story begins in New York, where a toll booth attendant at a now-defunct highway plaza unknowingly received the coin during a routine shift in the early 1980s. The coin, a 1979-P Susan B. Anthony dollar, initially drew no attention—after all, millions were minted. But it wasn’t just any SBA dollar. This one had a rare variation known to collectors as the “Wide Rim” or “Near Date” variety—a design feature that makes it far more valuable than its face value.
From Toll Booth to Treasure
According to museum officials, the coin remained in circulation for years before catching the eye of a hobbyist who spotted it in a toll change tray. Intrigued by its unusual rim design and heavier wear, the coin was pulled aside and later authenticated by experts. What confirmed its uniqueness wasn’t just the “Wide Rim” feature but also a minor die break—an error that further increased its value and rarity.
The collector eventually donated the coin to the American Numismatic Museum, where it is now displayed as a symbol of everyday history colliding with numismatic curiosity. Its journey from toll booth pocket change to a museum artifact has captivated coin enthusiasts and the general public alike.
Why the Susan B. Anthony Dollar Is Special
First issued in 1979, the Susan B. Anthony dollar was the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman—social reformer and women’s rights activist Susan B. Anthony. However, the coin was often mistaken for a quarter due to its similar size and color, leading to poor public reception and limited circulation.
Despite its brief run from 1979 to 1981 (and one final issuance in 1999), certain versions of the SBA dollar became sought after by collectors—particularly those with mint errors or unique characteristics like the Wide Rim.
The toll booth coin is now a case study in how rare coins can blend into everyday life, often unnoticed. According to museum curators, it’s a reminder to keep an eye on our change.
Experts Weigh In
Coin expert David Hall, a former grader with the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), commented, “The fascinating part is how many people likely handled that coin without ever realizing what it was. It passed through hands, paid tolls, bought coffee—until one sharp-eyed person spotted the anomaly.”
He adds that coins like these are a reminder that history often hides in plain sight.
Still in Circulation?
Surprisingly, many Susan B. Anthony dollars remain in circulation today. Some are even worth hundreds or thousands of dollars depending on condition, mint mark, and errors. Collectors encourage people to check their coin jars, old wallets, and yes—even their car cup holders—for potential finds.
The Museum Display
The toll booth Susan B. Anthony dollar now sits behind glass, accompanied by a plaque detailing its humble beginnings and the journey it took to get there. It serves not only as a tribute to Susan B. Anthony’s legacy but also as a symbol of unexpected historical value in the most mundane of places.
Final Thoughts
In an era of digital transactions and tap-to-pay convenience, stories like this breathe new life into the world of physical currency. For more information related official coin. You can visit official website southconwayroadbaptistchurch.org. A simple toll booth payment transformed into a national artifact, reminding us that even the smallest pieces of metal can carry stories worth preserving.
So next time you hand over a coin or receive change, take a closer look. You might be holding a piece of hidden history.
