Coins and medals may appear to be innocuous artifacts with no monetary worth other than to pay for a specific item. However, the reality is quite different, as in the world of numismatics, the most rare and old coins can become extremely expensive, far exceeding their nominal prices. As a result, if you have any coins that appear unique or antique, you may be sitting on a small fortune.
Thus, with the development of digital media, interest in numismatics has increased, potentially raising the price of a good coin. For this reason, it is critical to preserve these spheres under lock and key, as their worth may increase dramatically over time. As a result, we present to you the top five rare coins that collectors value and should not be sold to the general public.
5 US coins prized by collectors
1794 Wavy Hair Dollar
One of the most sought-after coins among collectors. It is a historical piece representing the first silver dollar issued by the United States government. With only 150 to 200 coins remaining today, their rarity makes them extremely valuable.
At auction, one of these dollars was sold for $6.6 million. If you happen to find one of these coins in your collection, don’t hesitate to keep it. In addition to its high historical value, its auction price can range from thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on its condition.
1913 Liberty Head Nickel
This is one of the most intriguing and rare coins in US history. There are only a few instances, and some have achieved exorbitant prices at auction. In 2007, one of these coins went for $5 million.
Although it is extremely rare that you will own one of these coins, if you do, it might be worth far more than you realize. This coin is an excellent example of how a rare piece may appreciate in value over time.
Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
The Saint-Gaudens coin is a gold piece manufactured between 1907 and 1933 with an original value of $20. This coin’s design, created by sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, depicts Lady Liberty holding a torch and an olive branch, with an eagle flying on the reverse.
This piece is among the most exquisite in American numismatics. Coins in great condition can fetch more than $200,000; in 2020, one of these coins sold for about $300,000.
1940 Mercury Dime
The Dime Mercury coins, which were struck between 1916 and 1945, include numerous uncommon editions, one of which dates from the 1940s. With more than 21 million coins made, it is not as uncommon as the preceding ones, although specific variations of these coins can fetch high prices.
Some of these items have sold at auction for up to $8,519. Its design, depicting Liberty wearing a winged cap, is still highly valued by collectors. Although it is not as valuable as other instances, it is nevertheless a fascinating coin to have in your collection.
1909 Indian Head Cent – S
This coin was only produced in a restricted quantity of 300,000, making it one of the rarest and most sought after by collectors. This coin, which shows Lady Liberty wearing an indigenous headdress, is quite valuable if found in good condition.
In 2021, one of these pieces sold for $3,400, and some rarer examples may exceed that amount depending on their grading. Although less expensive than the previous coins, it is an excellent long-term investment.
