The realm of coin collecting is filled with treasures that have become priceless due to their historical significance, rarity, and remarkable stories. Among these are coins valued at over $30 million each, and one such example is the Bicentennial Quarter. Here, we look into this iconic quarter and six other coins whose values exceed $30 million, highlighting the fascinating and lucrative world of numismatics.
Bicentennial Quarter
Introduced in 1976 to celebrate 200 years of American independence, the Bicentennial Quarter is a staple in many coin collections. Typically, it holds only its face value, but a rare variant can be worth nearly $1 million. This special version is struck in 40% silver and bears a unique mint mark, which, combined with its historical significance and pristine condition, boosts its value.
The coin’s design, featuring a drummer boy and a torch surrounded by 13 stars symbolizing the original colonies, captures the essence of American heritage. While most Bicentennial Quarters are common, these rare variants have become prized possessions for collectors due to their scarcity and connection to American history.
Flowing Hair Silver/Copper Dollar (1794/5)
The Flowing Hair Silver/Copper Dollar, minted in 1794 and 1795, is considered one of the first dollar coins issued by the U.S. federal government. Its value, which exceeds $30 million, is attributed to its historical importance as a representation of America’s nascent monetary system. The coin features a portrait of Lady Liberty with flowing hair on one side and an eagle on the other, symbolizing the ideals of the newly established nation.
Only a few specimens have survived, making it an extremely rare and sought-after coin. The combination of its age, design, and significance as a symbol of early American independence contributes to its staggering valuation.
Double Eagle (1933)
Valued at more than $30 million, the 1933 Double Eagle gold coin has an intriguing history intertwined with the Great Depression. With a face value of $20, the coin is renowned for its stunning design, depicting Liberty striding forward with a torch on one side and an eagle in flight on the other.
Most of these coins were melted down after President Franklin D. Roosevelt banned the private ownership of gold to stabilize the economy, making the few that survived extremely rare. The legal battles over ownership have added to its allure and value, cementing the 1933 Double Eagle’s reputation as one of the most iconic coins in numismatics.
Brasher Doubloon (1787)
The Brasher Doubloon, minted in 1787 by goldsmith Ephraim Brasher, is regarded as America’s first gold coin. It is valued at over $30 million due to its historical significance and extreme rarity. Predating the establishment of the U.S. Mint, the coin’s story includes Brasher’s petition to produce his own coins, setting the stage for the nation’s future currency system.
The coin’s design features an eagle with a shield on its chest and a rising sun, reflecting the early American spirit. Its status as a pre-U.S. Mint issue, combined with its exceptional rarity, makes it one of the most valuable coins in existence.
Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle (1907)
The 1907 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is renowned for its exquisite artistry and historical importance. With a value exceeding $30 million, this coin was designed by famed sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens at the request of President Theodore Roosevelt, who sought to elevate American coinage to the level of classical European designs.
The high-relief design depicts Liberty holding a torch and olive branch, while an eagle soars in the background. Its intricate details and significance as a work of art and a piece of monetary history make the Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle a masterpiece of American coinage.
Liberty Head Nickel (1913)
The Liberty Head Nickel, minted in 1913, has a value of over $30 million, largely due to its unusual origins. The coin was struck during a year when no nickels were officially authorized, making it an accidental rarity. Only five specimens are known to exist, further elevating its desirability.
The coin’s design features the profile of Liberty on one side and a large “V” for five on the other, surrounded by stars. Its unintentional creation and extremely limited production make it one of the most fascinating and valuable coins ever produced.
Edward III Florin (1343)
The Edward III Florin, minted in 1343, is valued at more than $30 million, making it one of the oldest and most valuable coins in the world. This rare medieval gold coin is significant due to its age and the fact that only three known specimens have survived. It was originally produced in England under the reign of King Edward III and is a testament to the era’s artistry and craftsmanship.
The coin features the king’s royal seal and a depiction of the cross of St. George, reflecting England’s rich history. The extreme rarity and historical significance of the Edward III Florin make it an object of desire for collectors and historians alike.
| Coin Name | Estimated Value | Year Minted | Notable Features | Rarity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bicentennial Quarter | Nearly $1 million | 1976 | Drummer boy and 13 stars | Rare silver variant |
| Flowing Hair Silver/Copper Dollar | Over $30 million | 1794/5 | Lady Liberty and eagle design | One of the first U.S. dollar coins |
| Double Eagle | Over $30 million | 1933 | Liberty with torch and eagle in flight | Few survived gold recall |
| Brasher Doubloon | Over $30 million | 1787 | Early American gold coin | Predates U.S. Mint |
| Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle | Over $30 million | 1907 | High-relief Liberty and soaring eagle | Designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens |
| Liberty Head Nickel | Over $30 million | 1913 | Liberty profile with “V” numeral | Only five known examples |
| Edward III Florin | Over $30 million | 1343 | Royal seal and St. George cross | Only three known specimens |
These seven coins embody the fascinating mix of history, rarity, and artistry that drives the world of coin collecting. Each of these treasures has a story to tell, from ancient medieval times to modern-day legal battles, reflecting their remarkable journeys through history. Their values go beyond their material worth, offering collectors a chance to own pieces of the past that are irreplaceable and invaluable.
FAQs
What makes the Bicentennial Quarter valuable?
A rare variant struck in 40% silver and with a special mint mark is highly valuable.
Why is the 1933 Double Eagle so rare?
Most coins were melted down following the Gold Reserve Act, making surviving examples scarce.
How many 1913 Liberty Head Nickels are there?
Only five known specimens exist today.
What is special about the Brasher Doubloon?
It is considered America’s first gold coin, predating the U.S. Mint.
Why is the Edward III Florin valuable?
Its extreme rarity, with only three known examples, and medieval history make it priceless.
