4 rare American coins that made history and made collectors millionaires
There are some American coins whose real value is much more than the amount written on them. These coins are not just pieces of metal, but have become priceless symbols of history. Sometimes they are auctioned for crores and become the center of attention of collectors around the world.
Be it their age, rarity or a unique story hidden behind them – these coins are truly treasures that are hidden somewhere around us. Let’s know about the 4 most famous and valuable coins of America.
1.1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar
This was America’s first silver dollar, which was made in 1794. It was designed by Robert Scott. It has a picture of a woman on the front, whose long, open hair is a symbol of freedom and youth. On the back there is a simple but powerful eagle figure.
The most special thing about this coin is its rarity. Very few such coins have survived today. This coin was once sold at an auction for $10 million (about Rs 83 crore)! It is also the most expensive American coin ever sold.
2. 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
The story of this gold coin is no less than a film. It was designed by famous artist Augustus Saint-Gaudens. It shows a confident Lady Liberty holding a torch on the front, and an eagle flying behind.
But the twist is that it was never released to the general public. The US government melted most of the coins, making those that survived extremely rare.
Its price? It was once sold for more than $7 million! And the interesting thing is that there can be legal hassles regarding keeping this coin, because the government had declared it illegal at one time.
3. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
This five-cent coin is so rare that only 5 original specimens of it exist in the world. It was never officially issued, and that is what makes it so mysterious and expensive.
It has Lady Liberty on the front and the Roman numeral “V” (five) written on the back. For those who collect coins, it is nothing less than a treasure.
To date, one of these coins has sold for more than $4 million. And as time goes by, its value is increasing even more.
4. 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar
It is called ‘The King of American Coins’. Even though it has 1804 written on it, it was actually made many years later as a special diplomatic gift.
It has a beautiful picture of Liberty on the front and an eagle with a shield on the back. Its design and story are so special that it is considered a dream to get it. Very few people have been able to become owners of this coin. It once sold for more than $3 million.
Comparison at a Glance:
| Coin Name | Estimated Value | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar | Over $10 million | First silver dollar, Lady Liberty, eagle |
| 1933 Saint-Gaudens Eagle | Over $7 million | 90% gold, rare due to melting, legal issues |
| 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | Over $4 million | Only 5 exist, never circulated |
| 1804 Draped Bust Dollar | Over $3 million | Known as “King of Coins”, rare history |
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is the 1794 dollar so expensive?
A: Because it is America’s first silver dollar and very few are left.
Q: Can I keep the 1933 Double Eagle?
A: There are special legal requirements for it, as it was previously outlawed.
Q: How many 1913 Liberty nickel coins are there?
A: There are only 5 original coins.
Q: Was the 1804 dollar really minted in 1804?
A: No, it was minted later as a diplomatic gift.
Q: What is called the ‘King of Coins’?
A: 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar.