Besides preserving history, coin collecting is about the excitement of having something uncommon and expensive. Due to their rarity, historical significance, or distinctive qualities, some coins can earn high auction prices. We examine eight rare coins with values up to $10 million.
The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar is the most expensive coin bidded. This U.S. Mint silver dollar, thought to be the first, sold for over $10 million in 2013. Its historical significance and role in the creation of the U.S. dollar give it worth. Only a few of these coins survive, proving their rarity.
Mystery and intrigue surround the 1933 Double Eagle. After the U.S. government melted all 1933 Double Eagles and abandoned the gold standard, this $20 gold coin became scarce. Some survived, and one was auctioned for almost $7.5 million in 2002. Its rarity and survival tale make it valuable.
The 1343 Edward III Florin (Double Leopard) is one of the oldest and most notable coins on this list. This gold coin is about 675 years old and was struck during King Edward III of England. It is exceedingly uncommon with only three specimens. Its age and historical importance might value it at $10 million.
In 1787, goldsmith Ephraim Brasher struck the Brasher Doubloon, one of the first American gold coins. Brasher's signature ‘EB’ on the coin's breast makes it precious. Due to its rarity and historical significance, a Brasher Doubloon sold for about $7.4 million in 2011.
Despite never being struck by the U.S. Mint, the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the most iconic U.S. coins. Five examples are known. This nickel sold for almost $3.1 million in 2010. Due of its rarity and unique origin, collectors treasure this coin.
Rare and sought-after American coins include the 1894-S Barber Dime. Only 24 were coined, and only nine remain. The reasons for its unusually restricted minting remain unknown, making it rare. One penny sold for over $2 million in 2016.
The 1804 Silver Dollar, the “King of American Coins,” is one of the rarest and most famous U.S. coins. Although dated 1804, these coins were struck in 1834 as diplomatic gifts. Only eight original Class Is exist. One coin sold for $4 million at auction in 1999.
Modern wonder 2007 Queen Elizabeth II Million Dollar Coin deviates from historical coinage. This 100-kilogram Royal Canadian Mint gold coin is 99.99% pure. It's worth 1 million Canadian dollars, but its gold content makes it worth more. Some sold for over $4 million in 2010.
These eight coins represent history, art, and mystery. The narrative, rarity, and historical significance of these items affect their auction pricing. These coins are the pinnacle of numismatic success for collectors and aficionados, with stories almost as precious as the coins themselves.