When talking about the “most wanted” and “rarest” coins, it often refers to those that have achieved the highest prices at auction due to their extreme scarcity, historical importance, and unique characteristics.
Here are some of the coins that are frequently mentioned as being among the most wanted and rarest:
- 1933 Double Eagle: This gold coin holds the record for the most expensive coin ever sold at auction, reaching $18.9 million in 2021. Although nearly half a million were minted, most were melted down, and only a limited number are known to exist. The one privately owned example is particularly coveted due to a unique legal history.
- 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar: This is considered the first silver dollar issued by the U.S. federal government and is valued for its historical significance and artistry. One specimen sold for a record-breaking $10 million in 2013, highlighting its demand. Fewer than 1,800 were originally minted, and only around 120-130 are thought to exist today.
- 1787 Brasher Doubloon: Struck by Ephraim Brasher, a New York City goldsmith, this is considered the first gold coin produced in the United States. Its unique design, featuring Brasher’s hallmark, makes it highly collectible. A version with the hallmark on the eagle’s breast fetched nearly $7.4 million at auction in 2011. Another Brasher Doubloon sold for a record $9.36 million in January 2021.
- 1913 Liberty Head Nickel: Only five of these were ever minted, reportedly without authorization from the U.S. Mint, [according to Bankrate] . Their existence was not even widely known until 1920. One specimen sold for $4.56 million in 2018, and another was acquired for $4.2 million in October 2022. This coin’s rarity and mysterious origins make it highly sought-after.
- 1343 Edward III Florin: Also known as the “Double Leopard,” this medieval English gold coin is extremely rare, with only three known examples in existence. Two are housed in the British Museum in London. One privately owned specimen was found by a prospector in 2006 and sold at auction for £460,000, setting a record for a British coin at the time.
Factors Contributing to Rarity and Desirability:
- Low Mintage Numbers: A limited number of coins produced immediately increases their rarity.
- Errors in Production: Coins struck with mistakes or variations from the standard design can become highly collectible.
- Historical Significance: Coins associated with important historical events, figures, or eras often command higher value and interest from collectors.
- Unique Characteristics: Unusual or visually appealing designs can make coins more desirable.
- Condition: The state of preservation of a coin, graded on a scale from circulated to mint state, significantly impacts its value.
In conclusion, while the 1933 Double Eagle currently holds the record for the highest auction price, other coins like the 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar, 1787 Brasher Doubloon, 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, and 1343 Edward III Florin are also considered among the most wanted and rarest due to their unique combination of scarcity, historical importance, and captivating stories.
What coin is illegal to own?
Thanks for asking. For example, the 1933 Double Eagle gold coin, minted but never legally circulated, is considered government property and therefore illegal to own. In fact, owning one of these rare $20 coins today is not just illegal but may result in confiscation.
What coin is worth $40,000?
Great question! 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 US coin is worth $19 million?
From my experience, The 1933 double eagle $20 gold coin became the most expensive coin ever sold in June 2021 when it was auctioned for $18.9 million. But when the U.S. Mint first produced the coin in 1933, it wasn’t particularly rare, with around 445,500 produced.