Some coins have gone through American history to be bought at auctions selling over $1 million. Those coins are the treasures of rareness, having artistic brilliance and historical importance within them and containing great stories as well. So, let us cut into 11 of the extraordinary coins which have thrilled the collectors and shattered the records as well.
Crown Jewels
In full glory, there stands a single coin which gives a beeline to America’s early monetary attempt. Flowing Hair Silver Dollar of 1794 features its design, given by Lady Liberty’s flowing locks, for an emblem of liberty. The country’s very first silver dollar hails from this U.S. Mint, made in perfect historical condition that drew a price in 2013 of an astoundingly great $10 million.
Yet another is the 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle. There was such drama to American history when, at the bottom of the Great Depression, President Franklin D. Roosevelt ordered that gold coins be melted down; just a few had escaped melting down. In 2021, one was sold for $18.9 million-most ever spent on a coin.
Artistic Marvels
The 1907 Ultra High Relief Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle was perhaps the closest to American coin artistry. Sculpted by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, the intricate high-relief design had proven itself quite difficult to mint. However, this masterpiece’s scarcity and beauty fetched $2.99 million in 2005.
The 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar, nicknamed the “King of American Coins,” has a rich history. Though dated 1804, these coins were minted in the 1830s as diplomatic gifts. There are only 15 known examples, and one sold for $4.1 million.
Historical Treasures
The 1787 Brasher Doubloon is one of the cornerstones in American coin history, made by goldsmith Ephraim Brasher. The “EB” hallmark and the gold content express early American craftsmanship. A specimen sold for $7.4 million in 2011.
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is also a mystery piece. Only five were ever minted under strange circumstances, but one sold for $4.56 million in 2018.
Rare Mintages
The 1894-S Barber Dime is the epitome of extreme rarity with only 24 minted and nine known to exist. It sold for $1.9 million in 2007, thanks to its elusive nature.
The 1804 Gold Eagle, although misdated, was actually minted in the 1830s. Only four are known to exist, with one selling for $5.28 million in 2020.
Foundational Coins
The 1792 Birch Cent is an important experiment in the history of the U.S. Mint. As one of the first coins, its link to Robert Birch and its scarcity sold for $2.6 million in 2015.
The 1870-S Seated Liberty Dollar is another rare gem. It was minted in San Francisco, and the only nine examples known were auctioned off for $1.3 million in 2003.
The First Official Coin
The first authorized U.S. coin is the 1787 Fugio Cent, which was created with a “Mind Your Business” motto by Benjamin Franklin. A rare version of this sold at $1.5 million in 2021.
These coins aren’t just monetary artifacts; they’re pieces of history, blending rarity, artistry, and significance. They serve as tangible reminders of America’s past, offering collectors a chance to own a slice of history while inspiring admiration for the craftsmanship and stories they hold.
FAQs:
What is the most expensive U.S. coin?
The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle sold for $18.9 million in 2021.
Why is the 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar valuable?
It was the first U.S. silver dollar and sold for $10 million in 2013.
What makes the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel rare?
Only five were minted under mysterious circumstances.