The Fugio Cent, minted in 1787, is considered the oldest official US coin intended for circulation.
However, finding one of these in actual circulation today would be highly unusual as they are primarily sought after by collectors due to their historical significance and relative scarcity compared to coins minted later.
For coins that are more likely to be encountered in everyday transactions, some older series that may still be found include:
- [Lincoln Wheat Cents] : Minted from 1909 to 1958, these pennies are becoming harder to find, but can still surface.
- Jefferson Nickels : First minted in 1938, these are more commonly found in circulation than older pennies, sometimes even from the 1930s to 1950s.
- Washington Quarters : While the design dates back to 1932 (commemorative) and 1934 (circulation), quarters minted before 1965 were 90% silver and have largely been removed from circulation by collectors or those hoarding silver.
Therefore, while the Fugio Cent is the oldest official US coin intended for circulation, in practical terms, you’re more likely to encounter Lincoln Wheat Cents or even older Jefferson Nickels in everyday transactions.
What is the oldest coin in circulation in the US?
Thanks for asking. The Fugio cent, also known as the Franklin cent, is the first official circulation coin of the United States. Consisting of 0.36 oz (10 g) of copper and minted dated 1787, by some accounts it was designed by Benjamin Franklin.
What are the 4 most historic coins in the US?
USA’S FOUR MOST FAMOUS COINS
It features the Bicentennial half dollar with JFK obverse and Independence Hall reverse, the Washington Quarter with minuteman reverse, each dated 1776 – 1976, the famed Buffalo Nickel with Indian chief reverse, 1913 – 1938, and the Indian Head Penny minted from 1859 – 1909.
What US coins were never released to the public?
I can help with that. The 1933 double eagle is a United States 20-dollar gold coin. Although 445,500 specimens of this Saint-Gaudens double eagle were minted in 1933 in the midst of the Great Depression, none were ever officially circulated; further, all but two were ordered to be melted down.
What is the oldest US dollar coin?
The Flowing Hair dollar was the first dollar coin issued by the United States federal government. The coin was minted in 1794 and 1795; its size and weight were based on the Spanish dollar, which was popular in trade throughout the Americas.