What if some of the world’s rarest and most valuable coins were off-limits to own? These “forbidden coins” are steeped in history, controversy, and even legal battles.
While they aren’t circulating in the market, their stories fascinate collectors and numismatists alike. Let’s uncover five rare coins that are so sought after, they’ve become legendary.
1. The 1933 Double Eagle
A Coin Lost to History
The 1933 Double Eagle was meant to be a $20 gold coin, but President Franklin D. Roosevelt ended the gold standard during the Great Depression, and nearly all 445,500 coins were melted down.
Why You Can’t Own It
Although a few coins escaped destruction, they are considered U.S. government property.
Only one was sold legally in 2002, fetching $7.6 million. Any others that surface are confiscated by the Secret Service, making this coin both rare and legally restricted.
2. The 2007 Liberty Head Double Eagle
A Legal Battleground
The 2007 Liberty Head Double Eagle isn’t just a coin—it’s a symbol of the tug-of-war between collectors and authorities.
Collector Dwight Manley legally bought this coin, only for federal agents to seize it, claiming government ownership.
Why It’s Forbidden
This case highlights the fine line between private ownership and public history. Despite its significance, owning this coin remains legally risky.
3. The 1974 Aluminum Penny
An Experimental Rarity
In 1974, rising copper prices led the U.S. Mint to create 1.6 million aluminum pennies to test a cheaper alternative. However, the idea was scrapped, and most of these pennies were destroyed.
Why You Can’t Have One
A few pennies escaped destruction, sparking legal battles when one surfaced in 2014. The court ruled these coins remain government property, leaving collectors dreaming of “what if.”
4. The 1964 Peace Dollar
A Ghostly Legend
The 1964 Peace Dollar is a coin shrouded in mystery. Over 300,000 were minted but never officially released, and the government insists all were destroyed.
Why It’s Unattainable
Rumors persist that a few coins survived, but any surviving examples are considered illegal to own. This only adds to their allure for collectors.
5. The 1934 Chinese Silver Dollar
International Intrigue
The 1934 Chinese Silver Dollar, featuring Sun Yat-sen, was minted during a politically charged time in China’s history. However, the government banned their export.
Why It’s Rare
These coins are nearly impossible to find outside of China, making them a prized (but forbidden) collectible for international numismatists.
Legal Framework: Why These Coins Are Off-Limits
Most forbidden coins are considered public property, regardless of how they were obtained. Governments, including the U.S., actively confiscate these coins if they surface. This legal framework ensures their historical and monetary value stays out of private hands.
The Allure of Forbidden Coins
Forbidden coins hold a unique appeal for collectors. They represent pivotal moments in history, government decisions, and economic shifts. Their forbidden status only increases their mystique and value.
For instance, when the 1933 Double Eagle was legally auctioned, it fetched a record-breaking price, demonstrating its significance.
Adding to their allure, these coins carry stories of defiance, legal battles, and the eternal question: Who really owns history?
