Have you ever thought that a simple coin tinkling in your pocket can be worth millions? It may sound like a fantasy, but there have been many times in history when rare coins have been sold for millions of dollars at auction. These coins are not just pieces of old metal, but they have unique stories of history and preciousness hidden in them.
In this article, we will tell you about the three rarest and most expensive coins, which have been sold for millions of dollars so far. Also, we will tell you how you can check your old coins to know if you also have a precious coin.
3 rare coins that sell for millions
| Coin | Year | Estimated Value | Record Auction Price | Why It’s Rare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1933 Double Eagle | 1933 | Over $18 million | $18.9 million (2021) | This coin was never officially released into circulation. |
| 1894-S Barber Dime | 1894 | $1.5 – $2 million | $1.9 million (2007) | Only 24 coins were minted, and only 9 are known to exist today. |
| 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | $3 – $5 million | $4.1 million (2018) | This coin was never officially issued; only 5 are known to exist. |
Why are some coins so valuable?
The price of coins increases due to many reasons. Let us know which factors make a coin rare and expensive:
- Limited Mintage – When a coin is made in very small numbers, its rarity increases. For example, only 24 coins of the 1894-S Barber Dime were made.
- Errors & Varieties – Some coins have errors during minting, making them even more unique.
- Historical Significance – Some coins are associated with special historical events, which increases both their demand and price.
- High-Grade Condition – The better the condition (grade) of a coin, the higher its price.
- Provenance – If a coin has been owned by a famous collector or historical figure, then its price can be even higher.
1. 1933 Double Eagle – The world’s most expensive coin ($18.9 million)
The 1933 Double Eagle is considered to be the most expensive coin ever. It was a $20 gold coin, which was minted by the US government during the Great Depression. But when the US decided to end the gold standard, this coin was never officially put into circulation.
Why is this coin priceless?
- It is an important part of US currency history.
- It was never officially put into circulation, so it is very rare.
- It has a stunning design on it, depicting Lady Liberty and the Golden Eagle.
Auction record: In 2021, this coin sold for $18.9 million, making it the most expensive coin ever auctioned.
2. 1894-S Barber Dime – The 10-cent coin that sold for millions!
The 1894-S Barber Dime is one of the most mysterious and rarest coins in history. Only 24 pieces of this coin were made, and only 9 are known to exist today.
What is the story of this coin?
This coin was minted in secret at the San Francisco Mint in 1894. Some believe it was minted to gift to wealthy bankers, while others say it was minted to correct the Mint’s account balance.
- Auction Record: In 2007, this coin sold for $1.9 million.
- How to identify:
- Look for the ‘S’ mintmark on the back of the coin.
- Look closely at the image of Lady Liberty with a Barber design.
3. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel – 5 Coins Made in Secret!
The story of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is very exciting. This coin was never officially released by the US Mint, but still 5 pieces of it are in existence.
How did this mysterious story come into being?
It is believed that a Mint employee secretly minted this coin and kept it for himself. When these coins reached collectors, their true identity was revealed.
- Auction record: In 2018, a copy of this coin sold for $4.1 million.
- How to identify:
- It bears the date 1913.
- It looks similar to other Liberty Head nickels in design, but its date is different.
Do you have a rare coin? Here’s how to check!
- Check the date – Coins from older and rarer years are more valuable.
- Check the mintmark – The small letters on the back of the coin can determine its rarity.
- Check the condition of the coin – An unworn coin is worth more.
- Measure the weight of the coin – Many rare coins have different metals used, which can change their weight.
- Get it evaluated by an expert – Before selling any rare coin, get a professional evaluation done.
Conclusion
Collecting rare coins is not only an interesting hobby, but it can also prove to be a profitable investment. If you find an old or unusual coin, examine it thoroughly. Who knows, you may have a treasure worth millions hidden in your pocket!
FAQs
Q. What makes the 1933 Double Eagle so valuable?
A. It was never officially released for circulation, making it extremely rare.
Q. How many 1894-S Barber Dimes still exist?
A. Only 9 out of the original 24 minted are known to exist today.
Q. Why is the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel so rare?
A. It was never officially issued, and only 5 coins are known to exist.
Q. Can I find these rare coins in circulation today?
A. It’s highly unlikely, but rare coins occasionally appear in private collections or auctions.
Q. Where can I sell a rare coin if I find one?
A. You can sell it through auction houses, coin dealers, or online marketplaces like eBay.
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