Top Five Antique Coins That Are Extremely Valuable
Antique coins hold a unique charm and fascination for collectors and historians alike. These small pieces of metal offer a tangible connection to the past, often telling stories of ancient civilizations, notable historical events, and significant economic shifts. While many antique coins are treasured for their historical value, some stand out due to their extraordinary monetary worth. Let's explore five of the most valuable antique coins, each with a rich history and astonishing market value.
1. 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar
The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar is often regarded as the first silver dollar struck by the United States Mint. Designed by Robert Scot, this coin features a profile of Lady Liberty with flowing hair on one side and an eagle surrounded by a wreath on the other. According to Coin World, only about 140 specimens are believed to exist today, making it extremely rare and highly sought after by collectors.
In 2013, a specimen of this coin was sold for over $10 million at auction, setting a record for the highest price ever paid for a coin at that time. The coin’s value is attributed to its rarity, historical significance, and exceptional condition. Collectors prize it not only for its monetary value but also as a symbol of early American numismatics.
2. 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle has an intriguing history that adds to its allure. Designed by renowned sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, this $20 gold coin was never officially released into circulation due to the United States going off the gold standard in 1933. Most of these coins were melted down, but a few escaped destruction.
One such coin was sold at a Sotheby's auction in 2002 for $7.6 million. This particular specimen was previously owned by King Farouk of Egypt before being seized by U.S. authorities and later auctioned off. The coin’s high value is driven by its rarity, legal status as the only 1933 Double Eagle permitted for private ownership, and its captivating backstory.
3. 1787 Brasher Doubloon
The Brasher Doubloon is another highly valuable antique coin with a fascinating history. Ephraim Brasher, a goldsmith and neighbor of George Washington, minted these gold coins in 1787. The front features an eagle with a shield on its breast and the reverse side bears Brasher's signature "EB" punch mark.
In January 2021, a Brasher Doubloon sold for nearly $9.36 million at auction. Its value stems from its rarity—only seven known examples exist—and its significance as one of the first gold coins minted in America. The Brasher Doubloon is celebrated not just for its material worth but also as an artifact of early American entrepreneurship and craftsmanship.
4. Edward III Florin (Double Leopard)
The Edward III Florin, also known as the Double Leopard, dates back to 1344 during the reign of King Edward III of England. These gold coins were minted to facilitate trade with Europe but were withdrawn shortly after due to their high gold content making them impractical for everyday use.
Only three specimens are known to exist today, two of which were discovered in the River Tyne in 1857 and are housed in the British Museum. The third was found in southern England and sold at auction for £460,000 (approximately $850,000) in 2006. The coin's rarity and historical significance make it one of the most valuable medieval English coins.
5. Umayyad Gold Dinar
The Umayyad Gold Dinar is an Islamic coin dating back to 723 AD during the Umayyad Caliphate period. It is particularly noteworthy because it bears an inscription referencing a specific location—the “Mine of the Commander of the Faithful”—believed to be one of the earliest references to a mining location on Islamic coinage.
A specimen of this coin sold for £3.72 million (approximately $6 million) at an auction held by Morton & Eden in London in April 2011. Its value is attributed to its rarity—only about a dozen examples are known—and its importance in Islamic history and numismatics.
| Coin | Year | Estimated Value | Notable Sale |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar | 1794 | $10 million+ | 2013 Auction: $10 million+ |
| 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle | 1933 | $7 million+ | 2002 Auction: $7.6 million |
| 1787 Brasher Doubloon | 1787 | $9 million+ | 2021 Auction: $9.36 million |
| Edward III Florin (Double Leopard) | 1344 | $850,000+ | 2006 Auction: £460,000 ($850,000) |
| Umayyad Gold Dinar | 723 AD | $6 million+ | 2011 Auction: £3.72 million ($6 million) |
The world of antique coins is rich with stories and values that transcend their material worth. Each coin discussed here represents not only significant historical artifacts but also remarkable investments due to their rarity and demand among collectors.