20 Rarest Coins Worth $980M: Rare coin collecting has been a fascinating and rewarding pastime for many years, but did you know that certain rare coins are worth millions of dollars? In fact, the 20 most valuable coins on earth total about $980 million. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious if you have a secret fortune in your pocket, this guide will walk you through the most valuable rare coins, their estimated values, and why they’re worth so much.
| Coin Name | Year | Estimated Value | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flowing Hair Silver Dollar | 1794 | $10 million | First silver dollar issued by the U.S. Mint |
| Double Eagle | 1933 | $7.6 million | Never officially circulated; most were melted down |
| Brasher Doubloon | 1787 | $7.4 million | First gold coin struck in the U.S. by a private goldsmith |
| Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle | 1907 | $7.6 million | Ultra High Relief design; extremely rare |
| Edward III Florin | 1343 | $6.8 million | One of the oldest and rarest English coins |
| Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | $4.5 million | Only five known to exist |
| Bust Dollar (Class I – Dexter-Poque Specimen) | 1804 | $3.8 million | Known as the “King of U.S. Coins” |
| Queen Elizabeth II Million Dollar Coin | 2007 | $4 million | Made of 100 kg pure gold; legal tender in Canada |
| Lincoln Head Copper Penny | 1943 | $1.7 million | Error coin; most pennies that year were steel |
| Seated Liberty Dollar | 1870 | $1.3 million | Minted for diplomatic purposes; very few made |
| Umayyad Gold Dinar | 723 AD | $6 million | One of the earliest Islamic gold coins |
| Canadian Gold Maple Leaf | 2007 | $4 million | Largest gold coin; 100 kg of .99999 pure gold |
| Athenian Decadrachm | 430 BC | $2.9 million | Ancient Greek coin; highly prized by collectors |
| Brasher Half Doubloon | 1787 | $2.5 million | Companion piece to the Brasher Doubloon |
| Barber Dime | 1894 | $1.9 million | Only 24 minted; known as the “1894-S Barber Dime” |
| Morgan Silver Dollar | 1895 | $38,000 | Proof coins are extremely rare |
| Trade Dollar | 1885 | $3.9 million | Only five known to exist |
| Draped Bust Dollar | 1804 | $3.8 million | One of the most famous U.S. rare coins |
Note: Values are approximate and depend on the coin’s condition and market demand.
Rare coin collecting is an investment and a hobby. With some of these coins going for $10 million or more, it’s time to rummage through your collection to see if you have a treasure hidden within. Whether you inherited a collection of antique coins or simply discovered a rare coin while in circulation, now is the time to dig out research, authenticate, and perhaps cash in on your find. Happy collecting!
What Is So Valuable About These Coins?
1. Rarity
Coins minted in limited quantities or with very few surviving specimens are extremely valuable.
2. Historical Significance
The majority of these coins have some sort of historical significance behind them, e.g., the transition from one form of currency to another.
3. Condition and Grading
Coins that are graded as MS (Mint State) or Proof tend to sell for the highest amount.
4. Errors and Variations
Error coins, off-metal coins, or coins with special characteristics are likely to be much more valuable than face value.
Check if You Own an Oddball Coin
- Observe the Coin’s Mint and Date: Examine for obvious dates and unusual mint marks (such as “S” for San Francisco or “D” for Denver).
- Research Online or Use a Coin Guide: Price guides are provided online at such sites as PCGS and NGC.
- Get a Professional Coin Grader: If you believe that you possess a valuable coin, have it graded by a professional grader.
FAQ’s
Q. What Is the Most Rare Coin to Ever Be Sold?
A. The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar is the rarest at $10 million paid.
Q. How Do I Sell a Coin That Is Considered Rare?
A. Rare coins can be sold by using auction houses (e.g., Heritage Auctions), coin dealers, or the internet (e.g., ebay).
Q. What Do I Do If I Believe I Came Across a Coin That Is Considered Rare?
A. Do not sanitize the coin since this would minimize its worth.
Get an appraiser professionally.
Cross check with web references to come up with a clue of its monetary value.
Q. Are Old Coins Always Worth Something?
A. No. There exist older coins which are abundant and their value would equal their content price, and those which are hard to come by and priced valuable because the low mint counts alongside the truth that they’re antiques.
Q. How Should Rare Coins Be Stored Properly?
A. Store in sealed holders to avoid oxidation.
Store in a dry, cool place and away from direct sunlight.
Arrange a safe deposit box for valuable coins.