The world of coin collecting is replete with surprises and treasures, some of which are worth a small fortune. Among these, the Bicentennial Quarter stands out, not just for its historical significance but also for its staggering value. This article cuts into the fascinating details of this rare quarter and six other coins whose values exceed $30 million USD, offering a glimpse into the lucrative and intriguing realm of numismatics.
Table of Contents
- 1 Bicentennial Quarter
- 2 Flowing Hair Silver/Copper Dollar 1794/5
- 3 Double Eagle 1933
- 4 Brasher Doubloon 1787
- 5 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle 1907
- 6 Liberty Head Nickel 1913
- 7 Edward III Florin 1343
- 8 FAQs
- 8.1 Why is the Bicentennial Quarter so valuable?
- 8.2 What makes the Flowing Hair Silver/Copper Dollar special?
- 8.3 Why is the 1933 Double Eagle surrounded by legal battles?
- 8.4 What is the significance of the Brasher Doubloon?
- 8.5 How did the Liberty Head Nickel come to be known as the $30 million mistake?
Bicentennial Quarter
The Bicentennial Quarter, released in 1976 to commemorate 200 years of American independence, is usually worth no more than its face value. However, a rare variant of this coin, struck in 40% silver and featuring a special mint mark, can be worth nearly $1 million.
This extraordinary value is attributed to its limited production, historical significance, and pristine condition. Collectors prize this quarter for its unique design, which includes a drummer boy and a torch encircled by 13 stars, symbolizing the original colonies.
Flowing Hair Silver/Copper Dollar 1794/5
The Flowing Hair Silver/Copper Dollar, minted in 1794 and 1795, is one of the first dollar coins issued by the United States federal government. Its value, exceeding $30 million, is due to its historical importance and extreme rarity. The coin features a portrait of Lady Liberty on one side and an eagle on the other, embodying the new nation’s ideals. Its design, age, and the fact that few specimens have survived make it one of the most sought-after coins in the world.
Double Eagle 1933
The 1933 Double Eagle gold coin, with a face value of $20, is valued at over $30 million. This coin is famous not only for its stunning design, featuring Liberty striding forward on one side and an eagle in flight on the other, but also for its intriguing history. Most of these coins were melted down during the Great Depression, and the few that survived became the subject of intense legal battles, adding to their mystique and value.
Brasher Doubloon 1787
The Brasher Doubloon, minted in 1787 by goldsmith Ephraim Brasher, is valued at over $30 million. This coin is significant as it predates the establishment of the U.S. Mint and is considered America’s first gold coin. Its rarity, historical importance, and the story of Ephraim Brasher’s petition to mint his own coins contribute to its extraordinary value.
Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle 1907
The Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle, minted in 1907, is valued at over $30 million. This coin is renowned for its exquisite design, created by acclaimed sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens at the behest of President Theodore Roosevelt. Its high relief and intricate artwork, depicting Liberty and an eagle in flight, make it one of the most beautiful coins ever minted in the United States.
Liberty Head Nickel 1913
The Liberty Head Nickel, minted in 1913, is valued at over $30 million. This coin is unique because it was struck in a year when no nickels were supposed to be minted. The existence of only five known specimens adds to its rarity and value. The coin’s design features the head of Liberty on one side and a V (Roman numeral for five) surrounded by stars on the other.
Edward III Florin 1343
The Edward III Florin, minted in 1343, is a rare medieval gold coin valued at over $30 million. Its historical significance, as one of the earliest gold coins minted in England, and its rarity make it a highly coveted item among collectors. The coin features the king’s royal seal and is a remarkable example of medieval coinage.
| Coin | Value (USD) | Minted Year | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bicentennial Quarter | $1 million | 1976 | 40% silver, special mint mark |
| Flowing Hair Silver/Copper Dollar | $30 million+ | 1794/1795 | First U.S. federal dollar coin |
| Double Eagle | $30 million+ | 1933 | Rare, most melted during Great Depression |
| Brasher Doubloon | $30 million+ | 1787 | America’s first gold coin |
| Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle | $30 million+ | 1907 | High relief, designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens |
| Liberty Head Nickel | $30 million+ | 1913 | Only five known specimens |
| Edward III Florin | $30 million+ | 1343 | Early gold coin of England |
These seven coins, each with its own unique story and historical significance, are not just pieces of metal but treasures that offer a window into the past. From the Bicentennial Quarter’s celebration of American independence to the medieval allure of the Edward III Florin, these coins are a testament to the rich and fascinating world of numismatics. For collectors and enthusiasts, they represent not just monetary value but a connection to history and the thrill of the hunt for rare and valuable items.
FAQs
Why is the Bicentennial Quarter so valuable?
A rare variant struck in 40% silver with a special mint mark, limited production, and pristine condition contribute to its high value.
What makes the Flowing Hair Silver/Copper Dollar special?
As one of the first dollar coins issued by the U.S. federal government, its historical significance and rarity drive its value.
Why is the 1933 Double Eagle surrounded by legal battles?
Most were melted during the Great Depression, and the few surviving coins were subject to legal disputes, enhancing their mystique and worth.
What is the significance of the Brasher Doubloon?
It predates the U.S. Mint and is considered America’s first gold coin, minted by goldsmith Ephraim Brasher, adding to its rarity and value.
How did the Liberty Head Nickel come to be known as the $30 million mistake?
Only five were minted in a year when no nickels were supposed to be produced, making it extremely rare and valuable.