That is a Type 1. The easiest way to tell is that the loops on the Type 1 are the same size. One of the loops (supposed to be the top one, but it gets inverted) is larger than the other on Type 2.
1981-S Type 1 It exhibits smaller rounded serifs and more oval shaped center loops than found on the Ty-2. It may come with or without clear fields or "attachments" within the center loops depending on the amount of punching pressure utilized to sink the image into the die and/or the amount of polishing the die receives. This is the more common variety for the year. 1981-S Type 2 It exhibits large bulbous serifs and rounder center loops than found on the Ty-1. In spite of the fact that this variety is frequently and inaccurately referred to as "Clear S", it may come with or without clear fields or "attachments" within the center loops depending on the amount of punching pressure utilized to sink the image into the die and/or the amount of polishing the die receives. It does, however, have a greater tendency to be found with "clearer fields" within the loops than the Ty-1 but this is not a determining factor of type.
Yes, thanks although @Michael K's post with photos was extremely helpful. One NGC finalizer told me the top surface of the Type 2 "S" is flat, while the top surface of the "S" on the Type 1 comes more to a rounded point. I have not confirmed this for myself but MK's photos look that way.
