Some of the world’s rarest and most valuable coins have sold for millions at auction, each with a unique story and historical significance. These coins showcase impressive craftsmanship, rare minting, and notable history, making them highly coveted by collectors. Here’s a look at seven of the most expensive coins ever sold at auction and the record-breaking prices they fetched.
Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
Year: 1933
Auction Price: $7.6 million (2002)
The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is one of the world’s most famous gold coins. During the Great Depression, the U.S. halted the minting of gold coins, and most 1933 Double Eagles were melted down. Only a handful survived, and one of these rare coins broke records in 2002 with its $7.6 million sale.
Flowing Hair Silver Dollar
Year: 1794
Auction Price: $10 million (2013)
Considered by many to be the first silver dollar struck by the U.S. Mint, the 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar holds significant historical value. Only about 120 of these coins are known to exist, and in 2013, one sold for a whopping $10 million, making it one of the most expensive coins ever auctioned.
Liberty Head Nickel
Year: 1913
Auction Price: $4.5 million (2018)
The 1913 Liberty Head nickel is another incredibly rare U.S. coin, with only five ever made. Its scarcity and popularity among collectors helped it reach an impressive $4.5 million at auction in 2018.
Draped Bust Silver Dollar
Year: 1804
Auction Price: $7.7 million (2021)
Despite its 1804 date, this Draped Bust Silver Dollar was actually produced in the 1830s as a “restrike.” Known for its elegance and rarity, one of these coins sold for $7.7 million, securing its place among the most valuable U.S. coins.
Brasher Doubloon
Year: 1787
Auction Price: $7.4 million (2011)
Created by New York jeweler Ephraim Brasher, the 1787 Brasher Doubloon is considered the first U.S. gold coin. Known for its intricate design and historic significance, a Brasher Doubloon sold for $7.4 million in 2011.
Liberty Double Eagle
Year: 1849
Auction Price: $7 million
The 1849 Double Eagle is one of the rarest coins, with only one known specimen. Minted as a prototype, it never circulated, and its extraordinary rarity has made it highly prized, fetching more than $7 million when sold from a private collection.
Half Eagle
Year: 1822
Auction Price: $8.5 million (2021)
With only three examples known, the 1822 Half Eagle is one of the rarest U.S. gold coins. In 2021, one of these coins sold for $8.5 million, a record price for a U.S. gold coin, due to its rarity, condition, and historical importance.
These astonishing auction prices highlight the allure of rare coins for collectors and investors alike. Whether for their rarity, artistry, or historic value, these coins remain prized pieces in the numismatic world, reflecting stories of American history and craftsmanship.
FAQs
What is the most valuable coin ever sold?
The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar sold for $10 million.
Why is the 1933 Double Eagle so valuable?
It was melted down during the Great Depression; only a few survived.
How many Liberty Head Nickels were made?
Only five 1913 Liberty Head Nickels were produced.
What makes the Brasher Doubloon valuable?
It is the first U.S. gold coin, made by Ephraim Brasher in 1787.
How rare is the 1822 Half Eagle coin?
Only three examples of the 1822 Half Eagle are known to exist.
