Collectors and historians just love rare coins. Their tales, artistry, and scarcity combine to place these coins on an extraordinary level of worth. Take a look at seven coins which sold for over $5 million – some of the most desirable items in numismatic circles.
1. 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar
The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar remains one of the most historic and sought-after issues, as it was the very first silver dollar issued in the United States.
Lady Liberty with flowing hair on the obverse side and a small eagle on the reverse side is designed by Robert Scot.
Only about 1,750 coins were ever struck, of which very few survive in fine condition.
Most notable sale: A specimen sold for $10 million in 2013, a record for the most expensive coin ever sold.
2. 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is perhaps the most famous and infamous coin in U.S. history.
- Background: Designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, these $20 gold coins were never circulated because the U.S. abandoned the gold standard. Most were melted down, but a few escaped.
- Notable Sales : Sold for $7.5 million in 2002 and a staggering $18.9 million in 2021, a record.
3. 1804 Silver Dollar (Class I)
Legendary coin known as “The King of American Coins,” 1804 Silver Dollar is a minted piece that was produced as a diplomatic gifts during the 1830s.
- Design: Lady Liberty is engraved on the obverse while an eagle on the reverse.
- Rarity: Only 15 are known to exist, with Class I examples being the most desirable.
- Notable Sale: One sold for $7.68 million in 2013, entering the ranks of the most valuable coins.
4. Edward III Florin (1343)
Edward III Florin is a medieval coin issued during the reign of the king of England in the 14th century. The coin demonstrates the exquisite artistry of that time.
- Design: It features King Edward III sitting on the throne, holding a sword and shield. Detailed ornaments well frame this picture.
- Rarity: There are only three known examples.
- Famous Find: One was found in a stream in 2006 for almost $7 million.
5. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
There is one unknown, five-numismatic-grade-only example of the 1913 Liberty Head nickel.
These were not sanctioned coins by the United States Mint and thus had that much mystique to them.
Notable Sale: A specimen sold for $5 million in 2018, making it one of the most famous coins in the world.
6. 1822 Capped Bust Half Eagle
The 1822 Capped Bust Half Eagle is an extremely rare $5 gold coin with only three known examples.
- Significance: Considered a masterpiece of early U.S. coinage.
- Notable Sale: In 2021, a privately owned example sold for $8.4 million.
7. Brasher Doubloon (1787)
The Brasher Doubloon is a historic gold coin created by Ephraim Brasher, the neighbor of George Washington.
- Design: Has the initials “EB” stamped by Brasher.
- Significance: One of the first gold coins produced in the United States.
- Notable Sale: Sold for $9.36 million in 2021 to indicate its historical and numismatic importance.
Why Are These Coins So Valuable?
- Rarity: Few production pieces and existing examples make these coins rare.
- Historical Importance: Every coin carries a tale from the period, from America’s founding to the Great Depression.
- Workmanship: Elaborate designs and outstanding minting only make them all the more appealing.
- These are not just valuable collector’s items, but rather memories of the creativity, history, and mystery that go into the collection of numismatics. Be they investments or historic pieces, these coins hold dear to every collector worldwide.
FAQs:
What is the most expensive coin ever sold?
The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle sold for $18.9 million in 2021.
Why is the 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar valuable?
It was the first U.S. silver dollar ever minted, making it historically significant.