Have you ever wondered if that spare change in your pocket could be worth a fortune? Before you toss those coins into a Coinstar machine, take a moment to check them out. You could be sitting on a small fortune! Some rare coins have become so valuable that they’re worth millions of dollars. Whether you’re a coin collector or just curious about old coins, these eight rare coins are worth knowing about—and maybe even hunting for.
Rare Coins Overview
Here’s a quick look at the rare coins we’ll discuss:
| Coin Name | Year Minted | Original Value | Current Value | Quantity Remaining |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar | 1794, 1795 | $1 | $7,750,000 | 150-200 |
| 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle | 1933 | $20 | $7,500,000 | 13 |
| 1913 Liberty Head V Nickel | 1913 | $0.05 | $4,750,000 | 5 |
| 1804 Silver Dollar (Class I) | 1834 (class minted) | N/A | $6,750,000 | 8 (Class I) |
| 1787 Brasher Doubloon (Breast Punch) | 1787 | $15 | $7,400,000 (2011) | Few |
| 723 Umayyad Gold Dinar | 723 | Unknown | $6,000,000+ | ~12 |
| 1894-S Barber Dime | 1894 | $0.10 | $1,440,000 | 9 |
| 1849 $20 Liberty Gold Coin | 1849 | $20 | $15,000,000 | Unknown |
1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar
The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar is one of the rarest and most expensive coins ever made. It was first minted in 1794 and 1795 and was based on the Spanish Dollar, which explains its size and weight. Today, there are only about 150 to 200 of these coins left. While its original value was just $1, this rare silver dollar is now worth a staggering $7,750,000.
1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
Next on the list is the 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle. Although around 445,500 of these $20 coins were minted, they were never officially released to the public. Only 13 of these coins are known to still exist, with one being privately owned by famous shoe designer Stuart Weitzman. Its last known value? A whopping $7,500,000, far beyond its original $20 price tag.
1913 Liberty Head V Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the most sought-after coins in the world, with only five of them remaining. These coins don’t even officially exist in U.S. Mint records, making them even more mysterious and desirable. Each coin has a nickname based on past owners, like the Walton and Norweb nickels. The Liberty Head Nickel is currently valued at $4,750,000.
1804 Silver Dollar (Class I)
The 1804 Silver Dollar is another incredibly rare coin, even though its name suggests it was made earlier than it really was. Most of these coins were minted after 1834, and there are three different classes of the 1804 Silver Dollar. Class I coins are the most valuable, with eight known to exist today. These coins are valued at about $6,750,000.
1787 Brasher Doubloon (Breast Punch)
The Brasher Doubloon, minted in 1787, features the initials “EB” stamped on the breast of an eagle, representing the coin’s creator, Ephraim Brasher. Only a few of these gold coins remain today. One sold for $7.4 million in 2011, and another went for over $2 million in 2005. Originally, this coin was worth just $15.
723 Umayyad Gold Dinar
The Umayyad Gold Dinar is a highly prized ancient coin from the Islamic world, minted in 723. It’s over 1,300 years old, yet there are still about a dozen of them known to exist. This rare coin is valued at over $6 million. It’s considered one of the most valuable Islamic coins ever made.
1894-S Barber Dime
This little dime originally cost just $0.10 when it was made in 1894, but today it’s worth far more. Only 24 of these Barber Dimes were minted, and now only nine are left. One was sold at auction in 2020 for $1,440,000. That’s a huge jump from its original value!
1849 $20 Liberty Gold Coin
The 1849 $20 Liberty Gold Coin is the most expensive coin on this list, valued at an incredible $15 million. Made from 90% gold and 10% copper, this coin weighs just over 33 grams. It’s considered one of the rarest and most valuable gold coins ever made, thanks to its rarity and the high gold content.
Conclusion
These eight rare coins represent some of the most coveted and valuable pieces in the world of coin collecting. Whether they’re centuries old or just from the last century, their rarity and historical significance make them worth millions. Even though these coins originally had small values, their scarcity and collector demand have driven their prices sky-high. Next time you’re looking through your change, remember that a hidden treasure could be right in your hands.
FAQ’s
What makes a coin rare and valuable?
A coin’s rarity and value can come from several factors, including its age, the number of coins minted, historical significance, and demand among collectors. Coins that were minted in limited quantities or have unique features tend to be more valuable.
How can I find out if my coins are worth money?
To determine the value of your coins, you can research them online, consult coin pricing guides, or visit a professional coin dealer or appraiser. It’s important to look at factors like the coin’s condition, mint mark, and market demand.
Where can I sell my rare coins?
You can sell rare coins through various channels, including online auction sites, coin shows, or local coin dealers. It’s a good idea to get an appraisal and understand the current market value before selling to ensure you get a fair price.