The coin in the film “Dear John” is a mule coin that holds significant symbolic and emotional value for the main character, John Tyree.
Here’s a breakdown of its importance:
- Origin and sentimental value: John discovers the rare mule penny as a child, which sparks his interest in coins and fosters a bond with his coin-collecting father. This coin becomes a symbol of their shared passion and connection.
- Symbol of their relationship: The coin collection and discussions about it represent the changing state of John and his father’s relationship throughout the film. When they are estranged, the coins are forgotten, but later become a way for them to reconnect, especially when John realizes it’s the main way his father (who has Asperger’s) expresses himself.
- A lucky charm: As an adult serving in the military, John keeps the mule coin as a lucky piece, and even uses it to make decisions by flipping it.
- Worth and significance: The coin is described as rare and valuable, worth $4000 at one point. However, the emotional and symbolic value of the coin outweighs its monetary worth for John, and he chooses to keep it rather than sell it with the rest of his father’s collection after his death.
In essence, the mule coin in “Dear John” is more than just a valuable object; it’s a powerful symbol of family, connection, and the bittersweet passage of time.
What was the coin in Dear John?
John sells his father’s coin collection (except the valuable mule coin that he found with his father years ago) to raise money to help with Tim’s cancer treatment, then he returns to the military, carrying the mule coin with him as a good luck charm.
How much was the mule coin worth in Dear John?
From my experience, The $4000 Mule One of the Rarest Minted Mules In Existence… The magazine cover shows the coin to be worth $4000, but the dealer suggests that he keep the coin as a family heirloom.
How much is a John Dollar coin worth?
Good point! Current Value of the John Quincy Adams Presidential Dollar
However, uncirculated examples in pristine condition can command higher prices, usually ranging from $2 to $5 depending on their grading. In some cases, coins graded Mint State 65 or higher—meaning they have few visible flaws—may fetch slightly more.
Where can I watch Dear John mule coin?
Watch Dear John | Netflix.