Coin collecting is an activity that carries history, art, and economics in a single bundle. Numerous fantastic and rare coins lie within this category, and their prices are sometimes more than one’s imagination. One such coin is the Bicentennial Quarter. This is unique due to the amazing value and historical importance of this particular coin. In this article we will highlight the characteristics of this rare quarter and six other coins whose total value has been estimated at more than $30 million.
Bicentennial Quarter
The Bicentennial Quarter was issued in 1976 to commemorate America’s 200th anniversary of independence, and is generally worth about the same amount as its face value. But a rare version of this coin, featuring a special mint mark and 40% silver, can sell for up to nearly $1 million. Its limited production numbers, historical significance and excellent condition are the reasons for its extraordinary value. The quarter’s unique design also makes it a favorite among collectors, featuring a child playing a drum and a torch surrounded by thirteen stars, representing America’s original thirteen colonies.
Flowing Hair Dollar
The first dollar coin was the “Flowing Hair Silver/Copper Dollar”, issued by the US federal government in 1794 and 1795. Its historical significance and extreme rarity make its price exceed $30 million. This coin, which symbolizes the ideals of the new American Republic, depicts Lady Liberty on one side and a flying eagle on the other. Its antiquity, design and limited number of surviving specimens make it one of the most sought-after coins in the world.
Double Eagle 1933
The “Double Eagle Gold Coin” issued in 1933 has a face value of only $20, but its current value is more than $30 million. The coin’s history is as fascinating as its design, which depicts a marching Liberty on one side and a flying eagle on the other. The majority of these coins were melted down during the Great Depression, and legal disputes over what few coins remained added to their value and mystique.
Brasher Doubloon
A gold coin, known as the “Brasher Doubloon,” minted by the famous goldsmith Ephraim Brasher in 1787, is valued to be worth more than $30 million. This is historically significant as it could be said that this coin is America’s very first gold coin and was present even before the US Mint. The reasons for its extraordinary value are its rarity, the historical significance attached to it, and the story behind why Ephraim Brashear was allowed permission to mint this coin.
Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
This includes the “Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle” issued in 1907, which is valued at more than $30 million. It was designed by renowned sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens at the request of President Theodore Roosevelt, and its design is so beautiful that it is considered the most beautiful coin in American history. Its fine relief and detailed design make it collectible and valuable.
Liberty Head Nickel
The “Liberty Head Nickel” issued in 1913 is also worth more than $30 million. This coin is special because it was minted in a year when nickel coins were not planned to be made. With only five known specimens remaining, its rarity and value are further enhanced. The coin features a figure of Liberty on one side and a “V” (Roman numeral 5) surrounded by stars on the other.
Edward III Florin
The “Edward III Florin” issued in 1343 is a rare medieval gold coin, valued at more than $30 million. Due to its rarity and historical importance it is very much liked by collectors. The coin bears the king’s royal seal, and is a wonderful example of coins from the medieval period.
Coin | Year Minted | Estimated Value | Significance |
---|---|---|---|
Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 | Nearly $1 Million | Rare variant struck in 40% silver |
Flowing Hair Dollar | 1794/1795 | Over $30 Million | First dollar coin issued by the U.S. federal government |
Double Eagle 1933 | 1933 | Over $30 Million | Survived the Great Depression; subject of legal battles |
Brasher Doubloon | 1787 | Over $30 Million | America’s first gold coin, minted by Ephraim Brasher |
Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle | 1907 | Over $30 Million | Exquisite design by Augustus Saint-Gaudens |
Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | Over $30 Million | Only five known specimens; minted when no nickels were planned |
Edward III Florin | 1343 | Over $30 Million | Early gold coin minted in England |
These seven coins are not just pieces of metal, but they are historical treasures, each with a unique history and significance. Bicentennial Quarter to Edward III Florin Coins in such a historical collection symbolize the connection one has with history and the thrill of discovering priceless objects. These coins are very important from a financial standpoint, but they also symbolize a connection to history.
FAQ’s
What makes the two hundred years worth it?
A rare variety struck in 40% silver makes it worth around $1 million.
Why is a Flowing Hair Dollar so expensive?
Historical significance and extreme rarity push the price to more than $30 million.
How did the 1933 Double Eagle survive?
Few survived the Holocaust, making it expensive and mysterious.