The United States has produced many coins over the years, with some becoming incredibly rare due to minting errors, government policies, or age. These rare coins are now highly sought after by collectors around the world. Some of these coins are so rare that their existence was once thought to be a myth. Below are five of the rarest US coins, along with their values.
1. 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle ($7.59 Million)
The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is one of the rarest and most valuable coins ever minted in the United States. In 1933, the U.S. was in the Great Depression, and President Roosevelt ended the gold standard, making it illegal to own gold coins. Although 445,500 Double Eagles were made, they were never released and were ordered to be destroyed.
However, a few coins were smuggled out by mint workers. While most were recovered and destroyed, one remains in private hands. This coin was sold at auction in 2002 for $7.59 million, making it one of the most expensive coins in history.
2. 1943 Copper Penny ($60,000 – $200,000)
The 1943 Copper Penny is another rare U.S. coin, with only about 40 ever made. During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched from copper to steel for penny production to save copper for the war effort. However, a few copper blanks accidentally got mixed in, creating these rare coins.
Counterfeits are common, with people altering steel pennies or using copper plating. Authentic copper pennies from 1943 are valuable, with one selling for over $200,000 in 2004. The average price for one is around $60,000.
3. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel ($3.7 Million)
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the most coveted coins among collectors, with only five ever made. The coins were produced secretly without the U.S. Mint’s authorization. Today, three of the coins are privately owned, while two are in museums.
The most famous of these nickels, known as the Olsen nickel, sold for $3.7 million at auction in 2010. Despite its age, this nickel has consistently been one of the most expensive coins in history.
4. 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar ($10 Million)
The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar holds the record for the highest-valued coin ever sold. Minted in 1794 and 1795, this was the first silver dollar ever issued by the U.S. government. Only a limited number were produced, making it incredibly rare.
In 2013, one of these coins sold for over $10 million, earning it the title of the most expensive coin in history.
5. 1870-S Silver Dollar ($1 Million)
The 1870-S Silver Dollar is a unique coin, with only about 12 known to exist. Struck at the San Francisco Mint, these coins were unlisted in any official reports, leading to much speculation about their origin. Some believe they were made as presentation pieces.
One of these coins sold for just over $1 million at auction in 2003, making it one of the most valuable silver dollars.
| Coin | Year | Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle | 1933 | $7.59 million |
| 1943 Copper Penny | 1943 | $60,000 – $200,000 |
| 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | $3.7 million |
| 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar | 1794 | $10 million |
| 1870-S Silver Dollar | 1870 | $1 million |
Conclusion
Collecting rare coins is a fascinating hobby, with some U.S. coins fetching millions of dollars due to their rarity and historical significance. Whether it’s a 1943 Copper Penny or a 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar, these coins represent pieces of history that collectors are eager to own. While some of these coins are out of reach for most, they continue to captivate people worldwide with their stories and value.
FAQ’s
How many 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles exist in private hands?
Only one 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is privately owned. The rest were confiscated or destroyed by the U.S. government.
How can I test if a 1943 Copper Penny is real?
To check for authenticity, place the coin near a magnet. If it sticks, it’s not a real copper penny, as real ones won’t be magnetic.
Why is the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel so valuable?
Only five 1913 Liberty Head Nickels were ever made, and they were struck without permission from the U.S. Mint. Their rarity makes them extremely valuable.