There’s a good deal of debate among coin collectors and experts about which coin is truly the “most rare” and “most valuable,” as several coins have only a few known specimens or unique historical significance.
However, some coins consistently appear at the top of these lists:
- The 1933 Double Eagle Gold Coin is considered the most expensive coin ever sold, fetching $18.9 million at auction in 2021. It’s a gold coin that was never released into circulation, and the vast majority were melted down, [according to APMEX] . Only a small number are known to exist today, and with one notable exception, it is considered illegal to privately own them.
- The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar is believed to be the first silver dollar struck by the U.S. Mint. It’s extremely rare, with only a few examples in high-grade condition remaining today. This coin sold for $10 million in 2013, a record at the time.
- The 1787 Brasher Doubloon is considered by some numismatic experts to be the most valuable coin in the world. It was privately minted by Ephraim Brasher, a New York City goldsmith and silversmith, before the establishment of the U.S. Mint.
- The 1849 Double Eagle Gold Coin is considered the rarest and most valuable coin in US history, with only one currently known example in existence. This specimen is carefully preserved at the Smithsonian Institution.
- The 1343 Edward III Florin , also known as the “Double Leopard”, is a medieval English gold coin with only three known specimens in existence, making it incredibly rare.
It’s important to remember that the rarity and value of coins are influenced by several factors:
- Low Mintage: A small number of coins originally produced, like the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel.
- Errors or Variations: Mistakes during minting, like the 1943 Copper Lincoln Head Penny.
- Historical Significance: Coins that represent a particular historical moment or period.
- Condition: The state of preservation of the coin, with pristine examples commanding higher prices.
While these coins might be out of reach for most collectors, it’s fascinating to explore the rich history and stories behind these rare and valuable pieces of numismatic heritage.
What is the world’s most rare coin?
1849 Double Eagle Gold Coin
The one remaining specimen is carefully preserved at National Numismatic Collections at the Smithsonian Institution. The 1849 Double Eagle is currently the rarest and most valuable coin in the world, with an estimated value of around $20 million.
What US coin is worth $19 million?
1933 double eagle – Wikipedia.
What coin is worth $40,000?
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.