Coin collecting is not only a fascinating hobby but can also be an incredibly lucrative investment. Some rare coins have fetched millions of dollars at auctions, making them a dream for collectors and investors alike.
In this article, we will explore the top 7 rare coins that could make you rich, detailing their historical significance, rarity, and potential value.
Rare Coins That Can Make You Rich!
1. 1933 Double Eagle
Overview
- Face Value: $20
- Composition: 90% Gold, 10% Copper
- Record Sale: $18.9 million
- Mintage: 445,500 (Most melted, only 14 known to exist)
The 1933 Double Eagle is one of the most famous and valuable U.S. coins. Although minted in 1933, it was never released for circulation due to President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s executive order banning gold ownership. Most of these coins were melted down, making the surviving specimens exceedingly rare. One sold for a record $18.9 million, making it one of the most expensive coins ever auctioned.
2. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
Overview
- Face Value: 5 cents
- Composition: 75% Copper, 25% Nickel
- Record Sale: $4.56 million
- Mintage: 5
This coin was never officially minted for circulation. Instead, five specimens were produced, possibly illegally, making it one of the rarest and most sought-after U.S. coins. Each known example of this coin has a unique backstory, and they are considered numismatic treasures. The highest recorded sale for a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is $4.56 million.
3. 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar
Overview
- Face Value: $1
- Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
- Record Sale: $7.68 million
- Mintage: 8 (Class I)
The 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar, known as the “King of American Coins,” is highly coveted by collectors. Despite being dated 1804, these coins were minted in the 1830s as diplomatic gifts. Only eight Class I examples exist, making it one of the most valuable coins in the world. One of these coins fetched $7.68 million at auction.
4. 1943-D Bronze Lincoln Wheat Cent
Overview
- Face Value: 1 cent
- Composition: 95% Copper, 5% Zinc
- Record Sale: $840,000
- Mintage: 1 known
During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched to using steel for pennies to conserve copper for the war effort. However, a few bronze blanks from 1942 were mistakenly used in 1943, creating one of the rarest Lincoln cents. Only one known example from the Denver mint exists, making it an incredibly rare and valuable coin.
5. 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar
Overview
- Face Value: $1
- Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
- Record Sale: $10 million
- Mintage: 1,758
As the first dollar coin issued by the United States, the 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar is a piece of American history. Its rarity and historical significance have made it highly desirable among collectors. In 2013, one specimen sold for a staggering $10 million, making it one of the most expensive coins ever sold.
6. 1804 Eagle BD-4 13 Leaves
Overview
- Face Value: $10
- Composition: 91.7% Gold, 8.3% Copper
- Record Sale: $2.58 million
- Mintage: Unknown (20 known to exist)
The 1795 Eagle BD-4 13 Leaves is one of the rarest and most valuable gold coins from the early United States. This coin is highly sought after due to its rarity and historical significance. The record sale for this coin is $2.58 million.
7. 1907 Extremely High Relief Double Eagle
Overview
- Face Value: $20
- Composition: 90% Gold, 10% Copper
- Record Sale: $3.6 million
- Mintage: 16 to 22 (15 known to exist)
Designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, this coin is considered one of the most beautiful U.S. coins ever minted. The 1907 Extremely High Relief Double Eagle is a proof coin minted to test the dies. Its exceptional design and limited production make it one of the most valuable coins in numismatics.
Overview of Top 7 Rare Coins
| Coin | Face Value | Composition | Record Sale | Estimated Mintage | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1933 Double Eagle | $20 | 90% Gold, 10% Copper | $18.9 million | 14 | Most melted, never circulated |
| 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | 5 cents | 75% Copper, 25% Nickel | $4.56 million | 5 | Illegally produced, never circulated |
| 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar | $1 | 90% Silver, 10% Copper | $7.68 million | 8 | Diplomatic gift, only 8 known |
| 1943-D Bronze Lincoln Wheat Cent | 1 cent | 95% Copper, 5% Zinc | $840,000 | 1 | Error coin, only 1 known from Denver |
| 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar | $1 | 90% Silver, 10% Copper | $10 million | 1,758 | First U.S. silver dollar |
| 1795 Eagle BD-4 13 Leaves | $10 | 91.7% Gold, 8.3% Copper | $2.58 million | 20 | Rare, first U.S. gold coin |
| 1907 Extremely High Relief Double Eagle | $20 | 90% Gold, 10% Copper | $3.6 million | 15 | High relief design by Saint-Gaudens |
Conclusion
Investing in rare coins can be a rewarding venture, both financially and historically. The coins listed above are not just pieces of currency but are artifacts that tell the story of a nation’s past.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a new investor, understanding the historical significance and market potential of these rare coins is essential. Always conduct thorough research and consult experts when investing in these treasures, as their value can fluctuate with market conditions.
References
- Altier Rare Coins
- SD Bullion