The world of rare coins – some coins sell for millions!
The study and collection of coins, called numismatics, has been a subject of fascination for people for centuries. Usually the value of coins is equal to their face amount, but some rare coins can sell for crores due to their historicity, uniqueness and rarity.
Recently, one such amazing coin has been found, which has created a stir in the world of numismatics—a rare Bicentennial Quarter, which is estimated to be worth about $40 million (about Rs 332 crore).
Let us know the story of this historic coin and also about five other such rare coins, which are worth more than $7.5 lakh.
1. Bicentennial Quarter (1976) – The priceless coin worth $40 million
The Bicentennial Quarter was released in 1976 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of America’s independence. Although millions of such coins were made, one particular edition became extremely special due to its rarity.
This coin is so valuable due to a unique minting mistake, the use of a different metal (silver) and being found in excellent condition. Experts believe that it was mistakenly prepared on a silver planchet, making it the only coin of its kind in the world. Because of this, its value has reached 40 million dollars.
Now let’s know about the other five rare and expensive coins.
2. 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent – 1.7 million dollars
During World War II, the US started making normal pennies from steel instead of copper to save copper. But by mistake some 1943 coins were minted on a copper (bronze) planchet.
This mistake was extremely rare and today the value of these coins has reached 1.7 million dollars (about Rs 14 crore). In 2010, a rare bronze Lincoln cent sold at auction for this price.
3. 1804 Silver Dollar – $3.8 million
It is called the “King of American Coins”. Although it bears the date 1804, it was actually minted in the 1830s to be gifted to foreign leaders.
Only 15 such coins exist in the world and are extremely popular due to their historicity. In 1999, a coin was auctioned for $3.8 million (about Rs 31 crore).
4. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel – $4.5 million
This coin is so rare that only 5 specimens of it exist. It is said to have been crafted secretly by a mint employee, making this coin full of mystery.
In 2018, a rare copy of this coin was sold for $4.5 million (about Rs 37 crore).
5. 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar – $10 million
This coin is historically important as it is the first silver dollar issued by the US. It was designed by famous designer Robert Scott.
There are less than 150 such coins in the world, and in 2013, a rare copy of it was sold for $10 million (about Rs 83 crore).
6. 1933 Double Eagle – $18.9 million
This coin is very famous due to its legal complications and unique story. 4,45,000 double eagle coins were made in 1933, but during the Great Depression, the US government melted and destroyed almost all of them.
However, some coins survived and in 2002, one of them was auctioned for $18.9 million (about Rs 157 crore). This coin is considered to be one of the most valuable and rare coins in the world of numismatics.
Conclusion – Do you have a priceless coin too?
The world of numismatics has many hidden treasures. The unique characteristics of coins due to their history, rarity, and mistake make them extremely valuable.
You may have a coin that is worth millions! If you are interested in old coins, you should take a good look at the old coins lying in your pockets and lockers—maybe you too will become the next big discoverer!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is the Bicentennial Quarter worth $40 million?
It is this valuable because of a rare error, struck on a silver planchet, and discovered in its perfect state.
How rare are 1943 bronze Lincoln cents?
Few coins of these were made, thus they are really rare and priceless.
Why is the 1913 Liberty Head nickel so valuable?
Only 5 of these coins exist, and its origin remains a mystery.
Why was the 1933 Double Eagle never issued?
It was destroyed prior to its release because of the Great Depression, and hence, it is very rare.
How do I know if I have a valuable coin?
You must seek minting errors, rarity, and historical value in a coin. If a coin appears old and unusual, get it assessed by an expert.