5 Rare and Expensive Coins That Shattered Records in Auctions

Coin collecting has captured the imagination of enthusiasts over centuries by weaving together the historical, artistic, and rarity aspects into tangible treasure. While many coins are valuable, a short list of them have attained legendary status because they are extremely scarce and have compelling histories. Here, we explore some of the most expensive coins ever sold, representing extraordinary moments in numismatic history.

1933 Double Eagle

It is probably the most known, other than from its very high value, 1933 Double Eagle. During the United States’ withdrawal from the gold standard, nearly all the 1933 Double Eagles were melted prior to ever circulating. A few survived this devastation, making it extremely rare.

• Sold Price: $18.9 million (2021)
• Special Feature: Never officially circulated
• Rarity: Extremely rare

This coin remains the most desired in numismatic history to this day.

1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar

This is the first silver dollar produced in the United States. The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar depicts Lady Liberty with flowing hair. It was only produced in 1,758, and far fewer are known to exist today. It has immense historical significance.

• Sold Price: $10 million (2013)
• Most Valuable Feature: First U.S. silver dollar
• Rarity: Extremely rare

This coin is collected for its historical significance and beautiful design.

1787 Brasher Doubloon

This was the 1787 Brasher Doubloon privately minted by New York goldsmith Ephraim Brasher. It has Brasher’s hallmark and is one of the earliest American gold coins.

• Sold Price: $9.36 million (2021)
• Notable Feature: Privately minted gold coin
• Rarity: Extremely rare

This coin would eventually become very significant in early American history.

1343 Edward III Florin

Known as the “Double Leopard,” the 1343 Edward III Florin is one of the few pieces of medieval coins in existence. To date, only three pieces are known to exist.

• Sold for: $6.8 million in 2006
• Description: Medieval gold coin
• Rarity: Extremely rare

The details on this coin featuring King Edward III are simply marvelous.

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1913 Liberty Head Nickel

It’s a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel. An essential reason for its mystery is that only five are known to exist, and its origin remains unknown until this day. That alone makes it so mysterious and valuable.

• Price Sold For: $4.56 million (2018)
• Why It’s So Important: Extremely low mintage
• Rarity Index: Extremely rare

This is one of the most famous coins in the United States.

These coins epitomize the magic of numismatics: where history, rarity, and artistry combine to create treasures of immense value. Each coin has a story, and every story provides an element of a tangible link to the past while illustrating the abiding interest in rare currency.

From the legendary 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar to the awe-inspiring 1933 Double Eagle, such coins are testaments to the fascinating intersection of history, artistry, and finance. Their phenomenal auction prices reflect the uniqueness and the deep bond that collectors feel with these rare artifacts. Coins remind established numismatists and new collectors alike of the eternal attraction of the rare and precious.

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