Top 8 Rare Coins That Surpass Their Face Value
Discover the top 8 rare coins that exceed their face value, including the 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle and the 1804 Draped Bust Dollar. These collectibles hold immense value due to their rarity, history, and condition, making them highly sought after by collectors and investors. Learn about their intriguing backgrounds and current market prices that can reach into the millions. Whether you're a seasoned numismatist or a curious beginner, these coins are fascinating treasures worth knowing about.
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Do you own pennies or quarters that might be hiding significant worth? Many coins, especially rare ones, can be worth thousands of dollars despite their small denominations. Most people value coins by their face value, but collectors recognize their true worth based on rarity and condition. Coin collecting may require patience and a keen eye, but discovering valuable coins is incredibly rewarding. Learning to identify these hidden treasures can turn a simple hobby into a lucrative pursuit.
1933: Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
The Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle, first minted in 1907, is highly coveted among collectors. After the 1933 gold recall, many of these coins were returned, making the 1933 version especially rare and valuable. As of 2021, some fetched prices upwards of $18,000, reflecting their desirability.
Another notable coin is the 1804 Draped Bust Dollar. Minted as part of a limited series in 1984, these silver dollars now fetch more than a million dollars each.
The Brasher Doubloon
Produced by a New York City goldsmith in the 18th century, the Brasher Doubloon features the state seal and an eagle. Only seven original coins are believed to exist, with one bearing the engraver's signature. Its rarity has driven its value to approximately $9 million today.
1913: Liberty Head V Nickel
With only five known specimens, the Liberty Head V Nickel is among America's rarest. Two are housed in museums, while the others regularly appear at auctions. The value of these coins can reach around $4.5 million.
1943: Lincoln Head Copper Penny
During wartime, steel pennies replaced copper ones. However, a manufacturing error resulted in a batch of genuine copper Lincoln Head pennies from 1943. These rare coins are valued at about $10,000, but beware of counterfeit copies on the market.
1974: Flowing Hair Silver Dollar
Minted briefly in 1974 and 1975, the Flowing Hair Silver Dollar gained fame when a 1974 specimen sold for approximately $10,000 in 2010. Its distinctive Liberty portrait with flowing hair makes it a collectible treasure, especially those from 1974.
1909: VDB Penny
The 1909 VDB Lincoln Penny is exceptionally rare due to its designer’s signature, Victor David Brenner, placed prominently on the coin. Its rarity has elevated it to a stunning auction price of $117,500 in 2014.
1870: Seated Liberty Dollar
With only eleven known specimens and no official records of its existence, the 1870 Seated Liberty Dollar remains mysterious. Coins with the San Francisco mint mark are especially prized, with one fetching over $760,000 at auction.
