Coins always hold a special place in history, as they are a confluence of art, value, and stories that transcend the bounds of time. For collectors, there are some coins that are priceless because of their rarity, historical significance, or design. Let’s know about seven such rare coins that have sold for more than $5 million and whose prices are staggering!
1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar
The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar is a milestone in the history of American coinage, as it was the first silver dollar of the United States. It was designed by Robert Scott and features Lady Liberty’s flowing hair on the obverse and a small eagle on the reverse.
- Minted: Approximately 1,750 coins.
- Historical significance: It was the first American silver dollar.
- Record sale: Sold for $10 million in 2013, making it the most expensive coin ever.
1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
This $20 gold coin, designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, never entered circulation due to the Gold Reserve Act of 1933. Most of the coins were melted down, but a few survived.
- Features: Gorgeous design and mysterious history.
- Auction record: Sold for $7.5 million in 2002, and in 2021 it sold for $18.9 million.
1804 Silver Dollar (Class I)
Known as the “King of American Coins,” the 1804 silver dollar was actually minted not in 1804, but in the 1830s as a diplomatic gift.
- Well-known examples: Only 15 coins exist, with the Class I being the rarest.
- Sale price: $7.68 million in 2013.
- Appeal: Historical significance and extreme rarity.
1343 Edward III Florin
This ancient gold coin, minted in 1343 during the reign of King Edward III, is one of England’s rarest treasures. Only three coins are known.
- Design: King Edward is seated with a sword and shield, and the coin has intricate details.
- Discovery: One coin was found in a river in 2006.
- Value: About $7 million, making it a valuable medieval relic.
1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head nickel is shrouded in mystery, as only five coins are known. These coins were minted privately without official approval.
- Sale price: Sold for $5 million in 2018.
- Uniqueness: Each coin has a unique story, which adds to its allure.
1822 Capped Bust Half Eagle
This $5 gold coin is one of the rarest coins in the United States, and only three examples are known. One of these is privately owned, while the others are in public collections.
- Auction Highlight: Sold for $8.4 million in 2021.
- Significance: Rare example of the history of early American coins.
Brasher Doubloon – 1787
The Brasher Doubloon, minted by goldsmith Ephraim Brasher, was the first gold coin minted in the United States. Brasher’s initials, “EB,” are inscribed on each coin.
- Historical Significance: This coin is associated with the early days of the United States.
- Record Sale: Sold for $9.36 million in 2021.
Conclusion
These coins are worth more than just their face value; they are symbols of history, art, and rarity. Whether they tell the story of a nascent nation or an ancient empire, these treasures capture the imagination of collectors and historians. The high prices at which these coins sell show that they increase in value over time and become priceless heirlooms.
FAQs
Q. What makes a coin rare and valuable?
A. A coin’s rarity is determined by its age, limited mintage, historical significance, and demand among collectors. Coins with unique designs or errors also tend to be highly valuable.
Q. Which coin is the most expensive in the world?
A. The most expensive coin ever sold is the 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar, which fetched $10 million in 2013.
Q. Why was the 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle never circulated?
A. The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle was never circulated due to the Gold Reserve Act of 1933, which required most gold coins to be melted down.
Q. How much is the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel worth?
A. The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is worth millions, with one selling for $5 million in 2018 due to its rarity and historical value.
Q. Where can I find rare coins for sale?
A. Rare coins are often sold at auctions, through numismatic dealers, or online marketplaces specializing in collectibles.