Numismatics, the study of coins, often uncovers treasures that hold more than just monetary value. These rare coins carry fascinating stories and have sold for millions. In this article, we’ll explore four of the most valuable coins in history, each worth more than $20 million, and what makes them so special.
The 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar
The 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar is one of the most famous coins in the United States. Interestingly, though it is dated 1804, it wasn’t minted until 1834 as part of special sets made for foreign diplomats. This coin is extremely rare, with only a few known to exist. Its combination of rarity, historical significance, and mystery has helped push its value beyond $20 million, making it a prized item among collectors.
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
Another coin worth more than $20 million is the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel. This coin was never officially released by the U.S. Mint. Only five of these coins were mysteriously made, possibly by a Mint employee. Today, all five of these rare coins are known, and their unique origin and rarity make them highly sought after in the numismatic world.
The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar
The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar was the first silver dollar ever issued by the U.S. Mint. It was designed by Robert Scot, featuring Lady Liberty with flowing hair on the front and an eagle on the back. Only a few of these coins are still around today, and one sold for more than $10 million in 2013. Given its history and rarity, a pristine example could easily be worth more than $20 million if it came up for auction today.
The 1787 Brasher Doubloon
The 1787 Brasher Doubloon is an early American gold coin made by Ephraim Brasher, a goldsmith in New York. The coin features an eagle with Brasher’s initials “EB” punched into it. There are only a few of these coins in existence, and they are incredibly valuable. One sold for over $7 million in 2011, and experts believe that a perfect example could now be worth over $20 million.
These four coins – the 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar, 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar, and 1787 Brasher Doubloon – are not only worth over $20 million each but also represent significant pieces of history. They serve as symbols of the craftsmanship and mystery of early American coinage and stand as some of the most coveted treasures in numismatics.
Why is the 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar so valuable?
The 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar is rare and was minted years after its date, making it a collector’s dream, valued over $20 million.
What is special about the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel?
Only five 1913 Liberty Head Nickels exist, and their mysterious origin makes them worth over $20 million.
How did the 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar become so valuable?
It was the first U.S. silver dollar ever minted, and its rarity has led it to exceed $10 million at auctions.
What is the Brasher Doubloon?
The 1787 Brasher Doubloon is a rare gold coin made by New York goldsmith Ephraim Brasher, valued at over $7 million.
Can coins still be worth millions today?
Yes, coins like the 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar and others have values that can surpass $20 million, depending on rarity and condition.