World of coins: Small treasures, big prices
There are many such unique and surprising stories in the world of coin collecting, where very small and ordinary looking coins reach the price of crores. One such amazing example is the Bicentennial Quarter, which was made in 1976 to celebrate the completion of 200 years of America’s independence. Usually this coin is worth only 25 cents, but some of its extremely rare varieties have become so precious that the price of a coin has reached about 36 million dollars (about Rs 300 crores). And the matter does not end here—there are many more coins whose value is being estimated to be more than 50 million dollars. Let’s know about these special coins, which also give a glimpse of history and heritage.
Bicentennial Quarter (1976 Bicentennial Quarter)
This special quarter was made on the occasion of the 200th anniversary of America’s independence. Ordinary coins are easily available, but some of its selected varieties, which have a special minting error or some special identity, are considered a big thing among collectors. One such coin, which had something unique in its design, was sold for about 36 million dollars. Its specialty is hidden in its historical importance and design, which counts it among the most valuable coins of America.
1794 Flowing Hair Dollar
This was America’s first dollar coin, which was issued by the US government in 1794. It has a picture of “Liberty” on it and an image of America’s early eagle is also made. It is counted among the most historically important and beautiful coins. In 2013, one of its coins was sold for 10 million dollars, and now its value is believed to be more than 50 million dollars.
1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
This $20 gold coin has a story full of mystery. It was minted during the Great Depression in 1933, but was then remelted by the government. Only a few of the coins survived, and are now in private collections. Its legal story and extremely low number make it special. One coin sold for $7.5 million in 2002, and is now worth more than $50 million.
1913 Liberty Head Nickel
This coin is called the “Forbidden Fruit” by collectors because it was never officially minted and only five specimens exist. Its true origins are still a mystery. In 2010, one of its coins was sold for $3.7 million, but experts believe that at the right time it can go above $50 million.
1804 Silver Dollar
It is also called the “King of American Coins”. The interesting thing is that these coins were actually made not in 1804 but in 1834, and that too to give as gifts to foreign ambassadors. Only 15 copies of it exist and it is extremely rare. In 1999, a coin was sold for more than $4 million. Now its price can be more than $50 million.
1343 Edward III Florin
It is also known as “Double Leopard” and this coin was made in 1343 during the time of King Edward III of England. This coin, about 675 years old, is a historical heritage. Only 3 copies exist to date. Its old-time heritage and rarity make it extremely valuable. Experts believe that if it sells, its price could be more than 50 million dollars.
1787 Brasher Doubloon
This coin represents the beginning of American history. It was made in 1787 by New York goldsmith and silversmith Ephraim Brasher. It is one of the first gold coins made in America. Its story and rarity make it very special among collectors. One of its coins was sold for 7.4 million dollars in 2011, and now its estimated value is considered to be above 50 million dollars.
2007 Canadian Gold Maple Leaf ($1 Million Canadian Gold Maple Leaf)
This is a modern but very unique coin. It was made by the Royal Mint of Canada in 2007. It is made of 100 kg of gold and has a purity of 99.999%. Its original price is $1 million, but due to its amount of gold and limited number, it can now sell for over $50 million.
| Coin | Year | Estimated Value (USD) | Defining Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 | $36 million | Rare minting error |
| 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar | 1794 | $50+ million | First official U.S. dollar coin |
| 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle | 1933 | $50+ million | Historic and controversial |
| 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | $50+ million | Only five known, mysterious origins |
| 1804 Silver Dollar | 1804 | $50+ million | “King of Coins,” diplomatic gift origin |
| 1343 Edward III Florin | 1343 | $50+ million | Rare medieval English coin |
| 1787 Brasher Doubloon | 1787 | $50+ million | Early U.S. coin by famed goldsmith |
| 2007 $1M Canadian Gold Maple Leaf | 2007 | $50+ million | Giant gold coin with high-purity content |
What is special about these coins?
These coins are not only valuable because of the metal, but also because of the history, rarity, and design behind them that make them priceless. These coins are not just currency, but a glimpse of a time, an icon of art, and a cultural heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is the Bicentennial Quarter so expensive?
It has a special minting mistake and it marks the 200th anniversary of America’s independence.
Why is the 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar special?
It is America’s first official dollar coin—steeped in history and extremely rare.
Do 1933 Double Eagle coins still exist?
Yes, but very few. Their story is quite mysterious and surrounded by legal disputes.
Why is the 1913 Liberty Head nickel called mysterious?
Because it was never officially minted and only 5 are left.
Why is the Edward III florin worth so much?
Its age, rarity and history make it special.