Several factors contribute to a coin’s high value, including rarity, age, condition, historical significance, and demand among collectors. Some of the most valuable coins ever sold at auction include:
- 1933 Double Eagle: This coin holds the record for the most expensive coin sold at auction, fetching $18.9 million in 2021. It is exceptionally rare, with only a small number known to exist after most were melted down due to the 1934 Gold Reserve Act.
- 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar: The first dollar coin issued by the U.S. government, its rarity and historical significance led one example to sell for $10 million in 2013.
- 1787 Brasher Doubloon: Minted by a New York goldsmith before the official U.S. Mint was established, a rare version with Ephraim Brasher’s “EB” hallmark sold for $9.36 million in 2021.
- 1343 Edward III Florin: Also known as the “Double Leopard,” this rare medieval English coin has only three known examples in existence. One of these fetched $6.8 million in a private sale.
- 1913 Liberty Head Nickel: Only five of these were ever minted, making them incredibly scarce. One of these sold for $4.56 million in 2018.
Even outside of these top contenders, many other coins can be worth a lot to collectors. Some examples include:
- 1849 Double Eagle Gold Coin: Considered the rarest and most valuable U.S. coin, only one is known to exist and is housed at the Smithsonian Institution.
- 1804 Silver Dollar: These coins were minted in the 1830s as diplomatic gifts and dated 1804. Only 15 are known to exist, with one selling for $7.68 million in 2021.
- 1943 Copper Lincoln Wheat Penny: Accidentally struck in copper instead of steel during WWII, these pennies are extremely rare and valuable.
- Rare error coins: Coins with errors such as off-center strikes, doubled dies, or incorrect metal composition can be highly sought after by collectors.
- Older U.S. coins in high grades: Even coins that aren’t considered rare can be valuable if they are in pristine, uncirculated condition, especially those from earlier minting periods. For example, the 1800 1C S-197 RB Large Cent in MS64 condition is worth around $44800.
- The value of coins can fluctuate depending on market demand and condition.
- It’s important to consult with a reputable coin dealer or numismatic expert for accurate appraisals.
- Be cautious of misinformation and scams when researching or buying rare coins online.
What coin is worth $1,000,000?
Thanks for asking. The 100-kilogram (220-pound) Canadian Gold Maple Leaf is a novelty coin produced by the Royal Canadian Mint with a face value of $1 million. Made of 99.999% pure gold, this monolithic coin features the iconic maple leaf design on the reverse and a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse.
What coin is worth $40,000?
I can help with that. PCGS values a 1966 Jefferson Nickel in MS66 FS as worth $40,000 and the reason is the grade (MS66) and the striking designation “Full Steps” or “FS”. The 1966 nickel is extremely rare when the steps are fully struck and in the grade MS66 it’s a registry quality coin.
What coins can you sell for a lot of money?
1796 Draped Bust Quarter. Image source. …
1864 Two Cents. Image source. …
1876 Liberty Seated Half Dollar. Image source. …
1883 “No Cents” Liberty Nickel. …
1892 Columbian Commemorative Half Dollar. …
1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent. …
1916-D Mercury Dime. …
1921 Morgan Silver Dollar.
What coins from the 2000s are worth money?
Good point! 2004-D Wisconsin State Quarter. …
2005-D 5C Speared Bison Jefferson Nickel. …
2005-P-D-S Minnesota Quarter Doubled Die. …
2008-W Silver Eagle Reverse of 2007. …
Presidential Dollar Errors.