The allure of forbidden coins lies in more than just their rarity—they’re shrouded in controversy, history, and untold tales that captivate numismatists worldwide. From government bans to ancient artifacts, these coins embody the thrill of owning a piece of forbidden history. Let’s look into five of the most intriguing forbidden coins that collectors dream of owning.
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1933 Double Eagle
The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is arguably the most famous forbidden coin in history. Minted during the Great Depression, nearly all of its 445,500 pieces were melted down following President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s decision to abandon the gold standard.
Why It’s Forbidden: The U.S. government considers any remaining 1933 Double Eagles as stolen property. Only one coin, sold in 2002 for $7.59 million, is legally owned by a private collector.
The Untold Story: This coin’s history involves international smuggling, hidden hoards, and a decades-long legal battle. The government’s strict stance only adds to its mystique, making it a prized yet unattainable piece for collectors.
1974 Aluminum Penny
The 1974 Aluminum Penny was a bold experiment by the U.S. Mint to replace copper with aluminum due to rising material costs. About 1.5 million test coins were struck, but the project was scrapped, and the coins were ordered destroyed.
Why It’s Forbidden: A few aluminum pennies were never returned to the Mint and are considered government property. Legal battles have ensued over these rare finds, with the government seizing any that surface.
The Untold Story: Rumors of congressmen keeping these coins as souvenirs or employees pocketing them have circulated for years, fueling the intrigue surrounding these elusive pennies.
1964-D Peace Dollar
The 1964-D Peace Dollar was intended to be the final silver dollar minted in the U.S., but the Treasury Department halted its release and ordered the coins melted down.
Why It’s Forbidden: Officially, no 1964-D Peace Dollars exist in circulation. However, persistent rumors suggest that some coins escaped destruction. Any such coin is considered illegal to own.
The Untold Story: Collectors claim to have seen these coins in private collections, but no specimen has ever been authenticated. The ongoing debate about their existence keeps the legend alive.
1973 Krugerrand Ban
The South African Krugerrand became a symbol of apartheid-era South Africa. Introduced in 1967 to promote the country’s gold, it was later banned in the U.S. and other nations as part of sanctions against apartheid policies.
Why It’s Forbidden: During the ban, owning or trading Krugerrands was illegal in several countries. While the ban was lifted in the 1990s, some countries still impose restrictions.
The Untold Story: Despite the prohibition, Krugerrands were smuggled and traded on the black market, becoming a symbol of defiance or wealth. Collectors today cherish apartheid-era Krugerrands for their political and historical significance.
Ancient Roman Coins
Ancient Roman coins are sought after for their historical value, but many originate from protected archaeological sites, where their removal is illegal.
Why They’re Forbidden: Coins excavated from such sites are considered state property in countries like Italy and Greece. Smuggling these artifacts is a violation of cultural heritage laws.
The Untold Story: The black market for ancient coins is rife with stories of smuggling and deception. While collectors argue that coins have been traded for centuries, governments and archaeologists fight to preserve these treasures for future generations.
Owning a forbidden coin is a double-edged sword—it carries both immense historical value and significant legal risk. For collectors, the intrigue, mystery, and controversy surrounding these coins only amplify their allure, making them the ultimate forbidden treasure.
FAQs
What makes a coin forbidden?
Government bans, legal claims, or cultural protection laws.
Can you legally own a 1933 Double Eagle?
Only one coin is legally owned by a private collector.
Why was the Krugerrand banned?
It was banned due to sanctions against apartheid South Africa.
Are ancient coins legal to own?
Only if they are legally obtained and not looted.
What happened to the 1974 Aluminum Penny?
Most were destroyed; remaining coins are considered government property.
