Coin collecting isn’t just a hobby—it’s a way to hold history in your hands. Every coin tells a story, and some are so rare and valuable that they’re considered legendary.
These coins stand out for their incredible rarity, fascinating backstories, and jaw-dropping auction prices.
Here’s a closer look at nine legendary coins that every collector dreams of adding to their collection.
1933 Double Eagle: A Great Depression Treasure
The 1933 Double Eagle is one of the most famous coins in U.S. history.
- Backstory: Minted during the Great Depression, these $20 gold coins were never released because President Franklin D. Roosevelt ended the gold standard. Most were melted down, but a few survived.
- Value: In 2002, one sold for $7.6 million.
- Why It’s Legendary: Its rarity and mystery make it the crown jewel of any collection.
1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent: The Controversial Penny
The first-ever Lincoln penny made waves due to a small but controversial detail.
- Backstory: The initials of designer Victor David Brenner (“VDB”) on the reverse caused backlash, leading to limited production.
- Value: High-grade examples are worth over $100,000.
- Why It’s Legendary: It’s a cornerstone of U.S. coin collecting history.
1894-S Barber Dime: The Million-Dollar Dime
This tiny coin is one of the rarest in the U.S., with only 24 ever made.
- Story: Believed to be struck as gifts for bankers or officials, fewer than 10 exist today.
- Value: One sold for nearly $2 million.
- Why It’s Legendary: Its extreme rarity makes it a true numismatic treasure.
1913 Liberty Head Nickel: A Coin of Mystery
This nickel wasn’t supposed to exist, making its origin story all the more intriguing.
- Story: Only five were minted without official approval, and they stayed hidden until the 1920s.
- Value: In 2018, one sold for $4.5 million.
- Why It’s Legendary: Its scarcity and mystery make it a collector’s dream.
1804 Silver Dollar: The King of American Coins
Despite its date, this coin wasn’t minted until the 1830s, adding to its mystique.
- Story: Created as diplomatic gifts, only 15 were made.
- Value: One sold for $7.6 million in 2021.
- Why It’s Legendary: It’s nicknamed “The King of American Coins” for good reason.
1794 Flowing Hair Dollar: America’s First Silver Dollar
This coin represents the beginning of U.S. coinage and holds incredible historical value.
- Design: Lady Liberty with flowing hair and a small eagle on the reverse.
- Value: In 2013, one sold for $10 million, the highest price ever paid for a coin.
- Why It’s Legendary: It’s a symbol of American history.
1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent: The Famous Error Coin
This coin stands out for a striking error that collectors love.
- Error: The date and inscriptions were doubled due to a die misalignment.
- Value: High-grade examples sell for over $100,000.
- Why It’s Legendary: It’s one of the most well-known error coins in U.S. history.
1870-S Seated Liberty Dollar: A Rare Mystery
This coin is so rare that its creation isn’t even recorded in official mint documents.
- Story: Believed to be struck for the cornerstone ceremony of the San Francisco Mint.
- Value: One sold for over $1 million.
- Why It’s Legendary: Its scarcity and mystery make it highly prized.
Brasher Doubloon (1787): A Golden Piece of Early America
The Brasher Doubloon predates the U.S. Mint and reflects early American coinage.
- Story: Minted by New York goldsmith Ephraim Brasher in 1787 as a private issue.
- Value: In 2021, one sold for $9.36 million.
- Why It’s Legendary: It’s one of the most valuable and historically significant coins in the world.
Why These Coins Are So Legendary
These coins are legendary because they check all the boxes for collectors:
- Rarity: Coins with low mintages or unique stories are incredibly hard to find.
- History: They’re tied to pivotal moments in American history.
- Value: Their prices at auction reflect their desirability and significance.
These nine coins represent the ultimate in numismatics. They’re not just rare—they’re steeped in history and carry stories that connect us to America’s past.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, these coins inspire awe and remind us of the incredible artistry and history behind every piece of currency.
