Rare coin collecting has its treasures in abundance, well beyond face value. Among the most notable treasures is the Bicentennial quarter, which is estimated to be nearly $69 million USD, among other coins with a value exceeding $999,999. The coins are commemorated for their historical significance, rarity, and unique features and capture the hearts of collectors and investors around the globe.
Historical Background
The Bicentennial quarter was produced in 1976 to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the United States’ independence. The reverse side features a picture of Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, framed by a 13-star motif that symbolizes the original colonies.
Most Bicentennial quarters retain their face value, but one specimen stands out as a numismatic wonder because of a minting error.
Minting Error
The double die obverse, an error during minting when the coin’s design is stamped twice and therefore causes a doubling effect with slight misalignment, makes this a very rare coin. It is apparent in the date “1776-1976” and other inscriptions like “Liberty” and “In God We Trust.”
Known in the early 2000s by a collector, the rarity of this quarter joined with near flawless condition plus historical context has elevated its value to an estimated $69 million. And it still stands as a symbol of numismatic perfection and one of the costliest coins in history.
1794 Flowing Hair Dollar
This was the first silver dollar minted by the U.S. government. Only about 130 specimens exist today, and the finest example sold for $10 million in 2013. Its historical and aesthetic significance make it a prized collectible.
1933 Saint-Gaudens Gold Double Eagle
Designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, this gold coin was never officially circulated because the U.S. abandoned the gold standard. Only a few escaped destruction, and one sold for $18.9 million in 2002.
1913 Liberty Head Nickel
Struck against official minting guidelines, only five of these coins exist. Their rarity and mysterious origins have made them one of the most coveted coins, with one fetching $4.5 million in 2018.
1804 Silver Dollar
Dubbed the “King of American Coins,” only 15 examples of this silver dollar are known. Its 1999 auction price of $7.7 million underscored its rarity and collector appeal.
1943 Copper Penny
A minting error during WWII resulted in a small number of copper pennies instead of the standard steel cents. About 20 remain, with one selling for $1.7 million in 2010.
1792 Half Disme
One of the earliest silver coins struck by the U.S. Mint, the 1792 Half Disme is a significant piece of early American history. A specimen sold for $1.4 million in 2005.
1804 Gold Eagle
Only a few were ever minted, making the 1804 Gold Eagle extremely rare. A perfect specimen realized a $4.2 million price at auction in 2002.
1907 Ultra High Relief Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
This gold coin is considered one of the finest pieces of American coin design. With a very low mintage, its scarcity pushed the auction price to $2.75 million in 2005.
2007 $1 Million Coin
Struck by the Royal Australian Mint, this massive coin contains a face value of $1 million but sold for $4.9 million due to its unique craftsmanship and gold content.
Rare coins always have the interesting stories of historic significance, superior designs, and serendipitous finds, which fascinate collectors all the more. Among these are a $69 million Bicentennial quarter, as well as nine other coins, which are reminders of value hidden in the past.