The most valuable American coin ever sold is the 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle , which fetched an astounding $18.9 million at auction in June 2021.
This particular coin is unique because it’s the only one of its kind that can be legally owned by a private collector. While a large number of 1933 Double Eagles were originally minted (445,500), most were later melted down due to changes in gold content requirements. The fact that only a select few of these beautiful gold coins survived and can be legally held outside of government hands makes this specific coin exceptionally rare and highly sought-after by collectors.
Other incredibly valuable American coins include:
- The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar , which holds historical significance as the first silver dollar issued by the U.S. federal government and was previously the most expensive coin ever sold, reaching $10 million in 2013.
- The 1787 Brasher Doubloon , a privately minted gold coin before the official US Mint was established, with one variety selling for $9.36 million.
- The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel , of which only five are known to exist and have sold for millions at auction.
The value of these coins is determined by a combination of factors, including rarity, historical significance, condition, and precious metal content (in the case of gold and silver coins).
What American coins are worth the most money?
Great question! When it comes to valuable coins, nothing compares to the 1933 Double Eagle. The Double Eagle, the last gold currency struck in the U.S., sold for a whopping $18.9 million in 2021. First minted in 1907, the coin features an image of Lady Liberty on its obverse and an eagle in flight on the reverse, Smithsonian reported.
What coin is worth $1,000,000?
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 is the holy grail of American coins?
From my experience, The 1913 Liberty Head nickel stands as one of the most legendary and enigmatic coins in American numismatic history. With only five known specimens ever minted, this coin has become the holy grail for collectors worldwide.
What US coin is worth $19 million?
I can help with that. 1933 double eagle – Wikipedia.