5 priceless gems from the world of coins – which became a part of history!
The study and collection of coins (numismatics) has fascinated people for centuries. Usually the price of coins is equal to their face value, but some rare coins sell for crores due to their historical importance, rarity and special features.
Recently, a shocking discovery was made in the world of numismatics – a rare Bicentennial Quarter which is valued at around $40 million (about Rs 330 crore)!
In this article, we will know the unique features of this historical coin and also take a look at five other rare coins, which are worth more than $750,000 (Rs 6 crore).
Bicentennial Quarter – A priceless coin worth $40 million
The Bicentennial Quarter was released in the year 1976 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of America’s independence. Millions of such quarters came into the market, but one of these extremely rare versions is worth about $ 40 million.
What is special about this coin?
- Rare Minting Error – This quarter was mistakenly minted on a special alloy (Silver Planchet), which makes it different from other coins.
- Excellent Condition – The coin is in perfect condition, due to which its price has increased even more.
- Extreme Rarity – Numismatics experts believe that this coin is unique and no other such coin is available.
Now, let’s take a look at five other coins that are no less than treasures for collectors around the world due to their price and rarity.
1. 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent – $ 1.7 million
What is special about it?
- During World War II, the U.S. Mint minted steel coins in 1943 to save copper. But by mistake some coins were minted on old copper planchets.
- This mistake makes it extremely rare.
- In 2010, one coin was auctioned for $1.7 million (Rs 14 crores).
2. 1804 Silver Dollar – $3.8 million
What is special about it?
- This coin is often called the “King of American Coins.”
- Despite being dated 1804, it was actually secretly minted in the 1830s to be gifted to foreign kings.
- Only 15 coins exist.
- In 1999, one coin was sold for $3.8 million (Rs 31 crores).
3. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel – $4.5 million
What is special about it?
- In 1913, coins of this design were not officially minted, yet five coins are still in existence!
- It is believed that they were secretly minted by a mint employee.
- In 2018, one of these coins was sold for $4.5 million (Rs 37 crores).
4. 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar – $10 million
What is special about it?
- This was America’s first silver dollar, minted in 1794.
- It was designed by Robert Scott and the beautiful image of “Liberty” was engraved on it.
- Only less than 150 coins exist today.
- In 2013, a coin sold for $10 million (Rs 82 crore), making it one of the most expensive coins in the world.
5. 1933 Double Eagle – $18.9 million
What is special about it?
- This gold coin was minted in 1933, but never came into circulation.
- 445,000 coins were made, but the government destroyed almost all of them by melting them.
- Only a few coins survived secretly, which later came into the hands of collectors.
- In 2002, one of these coins sold for $18.9 million (Rs 155 crore), which was a world record.
Can you have a rare coin?
In the world of numismatics, there are many coins that become extremely valuable due to special minting errors, historical significance and rarity. If you have an old coin, it may be worth it to have it inspected!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Why is the scarce Bicentennial quarter so costly?
It was produced accidentally on a commemorative silver planchet and its scarcity makes it highly valuable.
Q2: How many remaining 1943 bronze Lincoln cents are there?
Very few coins remain, which makes them value millions.
Q3: Why is the 1913 Liberty Head nickel so highly valued?
Because it wasn’t officially produced, but there are 5 coins present that value millions.
Q4: Why was the 1933 Double Eagle never put into circulation?
During the Great Depression, the government refused to issue this coin and destroyed most of them by melting them down.
Q5: How do I know if my coin is valuable?
If you have an old coin, contact an expert to examine it for rarity, minting errors, and historical significance.