World of Rare Coins – A Confluence of History, Art and Investment
Have you ever thought that a small coin can make you a millionaire overnight? Coin collection is not just a hobby, but it is a great combination of history, art and investment. Some coins are so rare and valuable that they are bid for crores of rupees in auction. Such coins are considered to be the priceless gems of the world of American coin collection (Numismatics).
Here we are telling you about 10 such American coins, which are worth crores of rupees and which remain the first choice of collectors around the world.
1. 1804 Silver Dollar – ‘King of American Coins’
This coin is called the “King of American Coins”. Even though “1804” is written on it, it was actually minted in the 1830s for special diplomatic gifts.
- Total Known Coins: 15
- Most Expensive Ever Sold: $7.68 Million (2021)
The coin’s historical significance, its rarity and mysterious origins make it one of the most sought-after coins in the world.
2. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel – Rare Coin Full of Mystery
The “Buffalo Nickel” was issued in the US in 1913, but some “Liberty Head Nickel” coins were also minted in secret. It is still a mystery why these coins were minted.
- Total Known Coins: 5
- Most Expensive Ever Sold: $4.56 Million
Due to its mysterious origins and limited numbers, this coin is one of the most valuable coins in today’s time.
3. 1927-D Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle – Rare Gold Coin
This gold coin is highly sought after due to its beauty and rarity. 180,000 coins were minted in 1927, but most were melted down due to the gold recall law in 1933. Only a few coins remain now.
- Total Known Coins: 15
- Highest Sale Ever: Over $2 Million
This coin is associated with the gold embargo during the Great Depression, which makes it all the more special.
4. 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar – America’s First Dollar Coin
This was the first US dollar coin officially minted by the U.S. Mint. It is an important part of America’s monetary history.
- Total Known Coins: 150
- Most Expensive Sale: $10 Million
Its historical significance and limited availability make it one of the most expensive coins in the world.
5. 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle – The most controversial US coin
In 1933, the US passed strict laws regarding gold coins and almost all coins of this design were melted down. Only one coin is legally owned privately, making it the most valuable coin in the world.
- Total known coins: 1 (legally owned)
- Most expensive sale: $18.9 million (2021)
This coin is the highest price ever sold at auction.
6. 1822 Half Eagle – The rarest US gold coin
Only three copies of this gold coin are known to exist. Only one of them is privately owned, making it difficult to estimate its value.
- Total known coins: 3
- Estimated value: Over $5 million
Its rarity and association with America’s early gold coins make it prized by collectors.
7. 1804 Eagle – Rare Coin Made for Diplomatic Purposes
The 1804 Eagle coin was also made in the 1830s, specifically to be gifted to foreign leaders.
- Total Known Coins: 4
- Most Expensive Sale: Over $3 Million
Its historical significance and limited number make it attractive to both investors and collectors.
8. 1885 Trade Dollar – Mysterious Silver Coin
Although the Trade Dollar series was officially discontinued in 1878, 5 coins were still made in 1885, making it one of the rarest silver coins.
- Total Known Coins: 5
- Most Expensive Sale: Over $2 Million
This coin is a mysterious chapter in America’s currency history and is nothing short of a treasure for collectors.
9. 1927 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle – A Combination of Great Design and Rarity
Minted by the Philadelphia Mint in 1927, this coin is quite rare. Only 50 coins are now known to exist.
- Total Known Coins: 50
- Most Expensive Sale: Over $1 Million
Its great design and limited availability make it extremely popular among coin collectors.
10. 1838 Pattern Half Dollar – A Unique Experimental Coin
This coin was minted as an experiment and features Liberty surrounded by 13 stars.
- Total Known Coins: 4
- Most Expensive Sale: Over $500,000
Its unique design and historical significance make it extremely special in the world of coin collecting.
Conclusion
These 10 rare US coins are not just pieces of metal, but they are priceless treasures of history, art, and investment. If you have a passion for coins or are thinking of investing in it, this world can prove to be exciting and rewarding for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the most expensive U.S. coin?
The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle, which sold for $18.9 million.
How many 1804 silver dollars are left?
Only 15 authentic coins exist.
Why is the 1913 Liberty Head nickel so rare?
Only 5 copies were made, making it extremely rare.
Where can you buy rare coins?
Through auction houses, coin dealers, and online marketplaces.