Coin collecting has many surprises and gems, some worth millions. A unique Bicentennial Quarter worth over $80 million stands out. There are other coins worth a lot. We examine five more quarters, each worth over $20 million, to demonstrate their value and history.
The 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar represents American history in a coin. As the first federal dollar coin, its historical significance is unmatched. The design represents the nascent nation's principles with a Lady Liberty profile and an eagle. A rare and historically significant example sold for almost $10 million in 2013, but experts estimate it might easily exceed $20 million if auctioned now.
Mystery and legal issues surround the 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle. Due to currency legislation revisions, most of these Great Depression-minted coins were melted down before leaving the mint. Few avoided this fate and reached the collectors' market. One was auctioned for nearly $7 million in 2002 after years of unlawful ownership. Given its contentious history and rarity, a 1933 Double Eagle may sell for over $20 million today.
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is a collector's favorite. It was extremely uncommon, with only five made. This nickel's history includes a secret minting procedure and a newsworthy vehicle collision. One sold for nearly $3.7 million in 2010, but with rare coin interest rising, it may approach $20 million if auctioned again.
The rare 1804 Silver Dollar, known as the “King of American Coins,” is highly sought for. First coined in the 1830s for diplomatic presents, collectors gradually understood their significance. With only 15 instances, its rarity is clear. One of these coins sold for nearly $4 million in 1999 and may now be worth $20 million.
US gold coins like the 1822 Half Eagle are uncommon. With only three samples, its rarity is clear. This early American currency is popular with collectors and historians. In 1982, one sold for about $700,000, which would likely top $20 million now.
The rich history and high value of rare coins make them interesting. Each coin conveys a different tale about America, from the 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar to the 1822 Half Eagle.
At roughly $80 million, the Bicentennial Quarter shows the lasting worth of these metal artifacts. Collectors and aficionados view these coins as jewels that capture moments in time and have stories worth more than their gold value.