The world of coin collecting is full of surprises, with some coins commanding incredible prices. One such standout is the Bicentennial Quarter, which was recently valued at nearly $11 million. However, this isn’t the only coin to make headlines. Here are seven more coins, each worth over $20 million, that have become legends in the numismatic world.
Double
The 1933 Double Eagle, valued at $18.9 million, is one of the rarest and most coveted coins ever minted. Originally intended as a $20 gold coin, most of these coins never saw the light of day due to a shift in U.S. currency laws during the Great Depression. Only a few survived, and they quickly became some of the most famous coins in existence. In 2021, one of these legendary coins sold for a staggering $18.9 million at auction, making it the most expensive coin ever sold. Its rarity, along with its historical background, makes the Double Eagle a symbol of American numismatics.
Flowing
The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar holds the title of the most expensive silver coin, having sold for $10 million in 2013. Believed to be the very first silver dollar struck by the U.S. Mint, this coin’s significance goes far beyond its monetary value. Its pristine condition and its status as one of the first pieces of U.S. currency make it a treasure among collectors.
Liberty
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is shrouded in mystery, with only five known to exist. Originally minted under unusual and somewhat mysterious circumstances, the Liberty Head Nickel’s scarcity has propelled its value. One of these coins fetched $4.5 million at auction in 2018. Collectors are drawn to the intrigue surrounding its creation and its extreme rarity.
Draped
Dubbed the “King of American Coins,” the 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar is another numismatic marvel. Though the coin bears the date 1804, it was actually minted much later, in the 1830s. With only 15 known to exist, the Draped Bust Silver Dollar has become one of the most famous and sought-after coins in the United States. One of these coins was sold for $3.3 million, solidifying its legendary status.
Edward
The 1343 Edward III Florin, also called the Double Leopard, is a medieval English gold coin. Only three examples are known to exist, making it one of the rarest coins in the world. In 2006, one of these coins was valued at $6.8 million. Its historical importance and extreme scarcity make it a must-have for any serious collector.
Maple
The 2007 $1 Million Canadian Gold Maple Leaf is not just a coin but a massive piece of bullion, weighing 100 kilograms. This modern marvel is made from .99999 pure gold and was initially valued at $1 million. However, its gold content and rarity have pushed its value up to $4 million. Its impressive size and modern craftsmanship set it apart from other collectible coins.
Eagle
The 1822 Half Eagle is among the rarest U.S. gold coins. With only three known examples, it holds immense value, especially for collectors of American currency. One of these rare coins was sold for $8.4 million, making it a prized possession in any collection. Its rarity and historical significance make it one of the most sought-after coins in numismatics.
| Coin | Year | Value | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1933 Double Eagle | 1933 | $18.9 million | Rare survival from the Great Depression era |
| 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar | 1794 | $10 million | First U.S. silver dollar |
| 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | $4.5 million | Only five ever made |
| 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar | 1804 | $3.3 million | Known as the “King of American Coins” |
| 1343 Edward III Florin | 1343 | $6.8 million | Medieval English gold coin |
| 2007 $1 Million Canadian Gold Maple Leaf | 2007 | $4 million | 100 kg of pure gold bullion |
| 1822 Half Eagle | 1822 | $8.4 million | One of only three known examples |
Each of these coins is a testament to history, rarity, and craftsmanship. Whether due to minting errors, limited production runs, or their role in shaping currency, these coins have reached astronomical values. Collectors are willing to pay millions to own these one-of-a-kind pieces, ensuring their place in the upper echelons of numismatics.
If you’re into coin collecting, who knows? You might stumble upon one of these rare gems, and it could change your life.
FAQs
Why is the 1933 Double Eagle so valuable?
Most of these coins were melted down due to changes in currency laws, making surviving examples extremely rare.
What makes the 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar special?
It’s believed to be the first silver dollar minted by the U.S., making it historically significant.
Why is the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel so rare?
Only five of these coins were minted, under mysterious circumstances.
How much is the 1822 Half Eagle worth?
In pristine condition, it can fetch $8.4 million at auction.
What’s unique about the 2007 Canadian Gold Maple Leaf?
It’s a 100-kilogram gold bullion coin, with extremely high gold purity.
