Pinpointing the absolute “oldest” coin found in America is complex, as it depends on whether you’re considering the oldest official United States coin versus any coin discovered on American soil regardless of origin.
- The Fugio Cent , minted in 1787, is considered the first official circulation coin of the United States.
- It was authorized by the Congress of the Confederation and possibly designed by Benjamin Franklin.
- Its design features a sundial with the Latin inscription “Fugio” and the motto “Mind Your Business” on one side, and thirteen linked rings with the motto “We are one” on the other.
- Coins predating official US coinage have been discovered, including a Caecilian Coin minted in 405 BC found in Johnson County, Kansas, in 2009, estimated to be over 2,400 years old.
- Other older coins found include a 17th-century Arabian silver coin and an Oak Tree Shilling from 1652.
- Claims of finding Viking pennies, Roman bronze coins, and Numidian coins have also been made, but require verification.
In conclusion, while the Fugio Cent is the oldest official U.S. coin, older coins from various origins have been found in America.
What is the oldest US coin ever found?
From my experience, Fugio cent. 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.
Which is the oldest coin ever found?
However, Lydian staters are widely considered to be the world’s oldest coins. They are made from electrum, a mixture of gold and silver. These early coins were minted around 600 BCE in the kingdom of Lydia in the modern-day country of Turkey.
What is the oldest American gold coin?
Thanks for asking. The Brasher Doubloon : America’s First Gold Coin.
What is the rarest coin in American history?
1849 Double Eagle Gold Coin
With just one coin currently in existence, the gold 1849 Double Eagle is considered the rarest and most valuable coin in US history.