Among the pantheon of valuable U.S. coins, bicentennial quarters have captivated collectors for decades.
These coins, minted in 1975 and 1976 to celebrate America’s 200th year of independence, generally hold more sentimental value than monetary.
However, a rare edition of the bicentennial quarter is reportedly worth nearly $100 million, turning the tables on what collectors might expect.
In this listicle, we’ll dive into this extraordinary piece and explore eight more coins that have fetched or are valued at over $20 million USD each.
The $100 Million Bicentennial Quarter
This particular bicentennial quarter is a mythic rarity among coin collectors.
Unlike the millions of standard bicentennial quarters minted, this one allegedly features a unique minting error or a distinctive characteristic that has not been publicly disclosed.
The coin’s valuation at nearly $100 million is based on its rarity, condition, and the story it carries, making it a holy grail for collectors.
While details are scarce, its value underscores the potential treasures hidden in plain sight.
1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle – $20 Million+
The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle stands as one of the most coveted coins among collectors.
Originally valued at $20, it has reached auction prices well over $20 million due to its rarity and the lore surrounding its history.
This coin was never officially circulated and most were melted down, making the few survivors extremely valuable.
1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar – $22 Million
The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar represents the birth of the dollar as the United States’ standard unit of money.
Its rarity, coupled with its status as a symbol of the new nation’s currency, has propelled its value to around $22 million.
It’s believed to be the first silver dollar struck by the U.S. Mint, adding to its historical significance.
1913 Liberty Head Nickel – $20 Million
Only five examples of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel are known to exist, making it one of the rarest and most valuable coins in the world.
Originally, this nickel was surreptitiously struck, not authorized by the U.S. Mint.
Its mystery and rarity have fueled its valuation to nearly $20 million at auctions.
1787 Brasher Doubloon – $25 Million
The Brasher Doubloon, minted by Ephraim Brasher, a goldsmith and silversmith, in 1787, is one of the most legendary coins in American numismatics.
Its value, over $25 million, stems from its rarity, historical significance, and Brasher’s own hallmark stamped on the coin.
1343 Edward III Florin – $23 Million
Diving into medieval European coins, the 1343 Edward III Florin, or Double Leopard, is valued at approximately $23 million.
Only three examples are known to exist, making it exceedingly rare.
This coin offers a glimpse into medieval England’s ambition to produce its own gold coinage, rivaling the likes of the Florentine florin.
1907 Saint-Gaudens Ultra High Relief Double Eagle – $21 Million
The 1907 Saint-Gaudens Ultra High Relief Double Eagle is often hailed as one of the most beautiful U.S. coins.
Its high relief design created technical challenges in minting, resulting in limited production. This scarcity and the coin’s stunning design contribute to its $21 million valuation.
2007 $1 Million Canadian Gold Maple Leaf – $20 Million
This massive coin, weighing 100 kilograms and made of 99.999% pure gold, was originally valued at $1 million but has seen its value skyrocket to $20 million.
Its sheer size, purity, and the artistry of the Maple Leaf design make it a standout piece.
1822 Half Eagle – $22 Million
The 1822 Half Eagle ($5 gold piece) is another monumental coin, with only three specimens known to exist.
It represents the early efforts of the United States Mint in gold coinage, making it a prized asset for collectors with a valuation of $22 million.
Conclusion
These coins, ranging from American bicentennial quarters to ancient European gold pieces, represent not just significant monetary investments but also pieces of history that offer insight into the economic, cultural, and political epochs they originate from.
The staggering values of these coins are a testament to the enduring appeal of numismatics as a hobby that bridges the past with the present, turning collectors into guardians of history’s tangible tokens.