Bicentennial Quarter Nearing $38 Million & 7 Other Rare Coins Worth: The world of coin collecting has recently been abuzz with the discovery of a Bicentennial Quarter, which was appraised at a staggering $38 million due to a rare minting mistake. But this quarter is far from the only valuable treasure in the numismatic world. Below, we explore seven other extraordinary coins, each worth over $55 million, highlighting the immense allure these treasures hold for collectors.
1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar
Regarded as the “holy grail” of American coins, the 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar is an invaluable historical artifact. As the first dollar coin minted by the United States, only about 1,750 pieces were made. The coin’s rarity and the classic depiction of Liberty with flowing hair contribute to its desirability. One sold for over $10 million in 2013, and its value has since risen to an astounding $100 million.
1933 Double Eagle
The 1933 Double Eagle is renowned for its beautiful design and the legal hurdles surrounding its history. Though over 445,000 coins were minted, they were never circulated due to the 1933 Gold Recall Order, which required gold coins to be melted down in a bid to stabilize the U.S. economy. A few survived and made their way into private collections. One fetched $7 million in 2002, and today, it is valued at $100 million.
1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar
The 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar holds significant historical value, especially given its connection to American diplomacy. Although dated 1804, these coins were actually minted in the 1830s as diplomatic gifts. Only 15 known specimens exist, making it one of the rarest U.S. coins. A specimen sold for over $10 million in 1999, with current estimates placing its value at around $80 million.
1787 Brasher Doubloon
The 1787 Brasher Doubloon is one of the first examples of American gold coinage, created by goldsmith Ephraim Brasher. It was the first privately minted gold coin in the U.S. because of Brasher’s involvement in its production. Its rarity and historical significance make it highly sought after. In 2011, a specimen was sold for $7.4 million, and it is now estimated to be worth around $70 million.
1913 Liberty Head Nickel
Shrouded in mystery, the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is often called the “Forbidden Fruit” of coin collecting. With only five known examples in existence, the circumstances surrounding its creation are unclear, especially since the Liberty Head design was replaced by the Buffalo Nickel in 1913. One of these coins sold for $4.5 million in 2018, and today, it is believed to be worth $60 million due to its rarity and intrigue.
1343 Edward III Florin
The Edward III Florin, minted in 1343, is one of the oldest and rarest coins in existence. Known as the “Double Leopard,” this medieval English coin is exceptionally rare, with only three surviving examples. Its age and historical significance contribute to its incredible value. Though it hasn’t been auctioned recently, experts estimate its worth to be over $55 million.
1943 Copper Penny
The 1943 Copper Penny is a famous minting error from World War II when the U.S. Mint switched to steel to conserve copper for military purposes. However, a few pennies were mistakenly struck on copper planchets, making them highly collectible. One sold for $1.7 million in 2010, and a pristine example of the 1943 Copper Penny is now valued at up to $50 million.
Summary of Estimated Values:
| Coin | Year | Estimated Value (Millions) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar | 1794 | $100 | First U.S. dollar coin, limited mintage |
| 1933 Double Eagle | 1933 | $100 | Legal complications, never circulated |
| 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar | 1804 (minted later) | $80 | Diplomatic gift, only 15 known specimens |
| 1787 Brasher Doubloon | 1787 | $70 | Early American gold coin, privately minted |
| 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | $60 | Only five known specimens, mysterious origin |
| 1343 Edward III Florin | 1343 | $55 | Medieval English coin, one of the oldest and rarest |
| 1943 Copper Penny | 1943 | $50 | Mint error during WWII, rare copper planchet |
These coins are much more than just valuable assets—they represent tangible pieces of history, each with its own compelling story. Whether due to minting errors, historical events, or legal battles, these numismatic treasures captivate the imagination of collectors worldwide. From the 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar to the ancient Edward III Florin, these coins are timeless symbols of wealth and fascination.