Top 10 Most Expensive Coins in The World

Rare coins are the Most Expensive Coins and have more value in addition to their underlying metal content. Multiple factors are considered to create a rare coin which are more expensive coins. Whether you’re an enthusiastic collector, who has acceded to a collection of rare coins, then you might be anxious to know how to sell these rare coins.

Understanding the most recent coin values can assist you in making wise purchases, advise you on what to get when selling your rare coins, and quench your curiosity about the potential value of your expensive coin collection. 

In this article, we cover the most recent information on coin collecting to the prices of rare coins. The writers on our website are seasoned professionals who have a strong interest in the coin business.

Coin collection referred to as ‘numismatics’, can be a hobby and an investment, and there are some gold and silver coins whose value can defy all expectations. Here we have listed the ten most expensive coins in the world.

The 10 Most Expensive Coins in The World

1. 1933 “Saint Gaudens” Double Eagle

The 1933 Saint Gaudens Double Eagle, known as the only legal 1933 Double Eagle, achieved an amazing price of $18,872,250 at a June 2021 auction. This hefty sum is the reason of the most expensive coin in the world. The coin, auctioned by Sotheby’s for private collector Stuart Weitzman, last chalnged hands in 2003 for $7,370,000.

Crafted with unique rarity and kept in impeccable condition, this coin is rated as Gem Brilliant Uncirculated – PCGS MS 65 CAC. Originally minted with a face value of $20 in 1907, this gold piece bears the distinguished design of sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens. However, due to its difficult high-relief strike, only a handful were made, with less than 30 known to exist.

Among them, two are showcased in the Smithsonian Museum, and one was sold at auction in 2005 for nearly $3 million. The attraction behind the staggering price tag lies in its legality; it is the only 1933 gold Double Eagle authorized for private ownership by the U.S. Mint.

While 13 are accounted for, only 12 remain outside of government holdings, with ten safeguarded at the Fort Knox Bullion Depository. Despite an official mintage of 445,500, almost all but twenty were melted down before circulation, making the surviving specimens even more precious. This coin’s sale almost doubled the last record for the most expensive coin ever sold, establishing a new benchmark in numismatic history.

2. 1794 “Flowing Hair” Silver Dollar – $10,016,875

In the world of numismatics, the 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar as a luminous testament to America’s numismatic legacy. Considered by many specialists to be the inaugural silver coin minted and issued by the US Federal Government, its historical value is outstanding.

In a landmark moment in 2013, this revered coin broke records, bringing a staggering $10,016,875 in a private sale. This huge price tag marked a new pinnacle in the world of single coin sales, solidifying its status as an icon of American numismatic history.

For over two centuries, collectors have cherished and safeguarded this coin, each passing year adding layers of attraction and mystique to its story. Its journey through time, from the early days of the American Republic to the present, has only heightened its appeal and value.

Steeped in historical significance and kept with meticulous care, the 1794 “Flowing Hair” Silver Dollar continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts, representing the rich tapestry of America’s numismatic heritage.

3. 1787 Brasher Doubloon – EB on Wing – $9,360,000

On January 21, 2021, a privately minted 1787 Brasher Doubloon with the distinctive “EB on Wing” sold for a staggering $9,360,000 at Heritage Auctions. This coin, graded MS-65 CAC, once belonged to notable collectors Stickney, Ellsworth, Garrett, and Patrick, adding to its prestigious provenance.

The 1787 Brasher Doubloon, initially minted to persuade New York to favor copper over gold coins, gained fame for its rarity and compelling backstory. Despite the state’s disinterest, Ephraim Brasher proceeded to mint these coins independently.

In 2011, one of these coins fetched a remarkable $7.4 million at auction, reflecting their immense value to collectors. Crafted by goldsmith Ephraim Brasher, these coins feature his hallmark, with variants distinguished by the placement of the mark.

One variant, bearing the hallmark on the eagle’s breast, sold for $7.4 million in 2011, while another, with the mark on the bird’s chest, fetched £4.5 million just three years later. Only a few of these coins remain, each showcasing an eagle with the silversmith’s initials.

4. 1787 Brasher Doubloon – EB on Breast – $7,395,000

In December 2011, a 1787 Brasher Doubloon with the specific “EB on Breast,” graded AU-50 and privately minted, brought a staggering $7,395,000 in a private transaction managed by Blanchard and Company.

Blanchard and Company encouraged the sale of a 1787 Brasher Doubloon, not through a coin auction but to a private collector for over $7,000,000. Unlike another available variant with Ephraim Brasher’s hallmark on the eagle’s wing, this one handles his mark on the breast of the eagle. Minted in 1787 by Brasher, a New York City silversmith and goldsmith, the coin originally had $15 worth of gold. Brasher also prepared a limited number of gold coins, maybe for public circulation, as the U.S. Mint had yet to start operations.

5. 1933 Double Eagle – $7,370,000 (the same coin and sold later for $18.9m for the #1 spot!)

In 1933, the Double Eagle gold coin was minted by the U.S. However, the coin was withdrawn from circulation later that year, despite over 400,000 specimens being created.

Despite the large number of coins that were produced, it wasn’t actually circulated, and the vast majority of coins were melted down, with a few also being stolen and finally got by collectors. 

Some of the stolen coins were recovered and subsequently destroyed. There are therefore believed to be less than 15 coins remaining today, including one that sold in 2002 at an auction for a staggering $7.59 million.

Two are also housed at the U.S. National Numismatic Collection, whilst the best 10 coins are currently situated in Fort Knox.

6. Circa 723 Umayyad Gold Dinar – $6,029,400

In April 2011, a circa 723 Umayyad Gold Dinar, designing from the Umayyad Caliphate, was sold for an amazing price at $6,029,400 by the firm Morten & Eden. This historic coin, dating back to the early Islamic period, expresses a important artifact of numismatic heritage. 

The Umayyad Caliphate, known for its comprehensive power over the Islamic world, issued these gold dinars as a sign of its authority and prosperity during the 8th century.

The sale of this coin highlights its rarity and historical value, attracting significant attention from collectors and historians alike. With its complex design and cultural value, the Umayyad Gold Dinar performs as a tangible link to the rich history of the Islamic civilization during the early medieval period.

7. 1787 Brasher Doubloon – EB on Wing – $5,500,000

In March 2019, Heritage Auctions promoted a private transaction for a 1787 Brasher Doubloon – EB on Wing, graded MS-63+, which brought an amazing price at $5,500,000. This personally minted coin, owned by Newlin, Davis, and Perschke, holds significant historical and numismatic value. 

The reality of Ephraim Brasher’s hallmark on the eagle’s wing denotes this particular variant of the doubloon. Its sale highlights the continuing attraction and desirability of rare and prestigious coins among collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.

8. 1804 $10 Proof Eagle PR 65+ DCAM – $5,280,000

In August 18, 2021, a 1804 $10 Proof Eagle PR 65+ DCAM sold for $5,280,000. This coin, graded PR-65+ DCAM, carries important historical and numismatic value. It has expired through famous collectors, including the Sultan of Muscat, Charles A. Watters, Virgil M. Brand, Childs, and Pogue, before being auctioned by Stacks Bowers. This sale highlights the enduring appeal and desirability of rare and prestigious coins among collectors worldwide.

9. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel – $5,000,000

In April 2007, a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel – 5 cents, graded PR-66 CAC, was sold for $5,000,000 in a private transaction facilitated by Ronald J. Gillio. This nickel, originally issued with a face value of just 5 cents, holds the title of the ‘most valuable non-precious metal coin.’ 

Only a few were created without approval from the US Mint, and their existence remained largely unknown until 1920 when former US Mint worker Samuel Brown revealed them. With only five known specimens in existence, one of these coins achieved a groundbreaking sale value of $3.7 million in 2010.

 Renowned for its exquisite mirror-like surface, this nickel is considered the finest known example worldwide.

10. 1861 Paquet Liberty Head double eagle

On August 18, 2021, Heritage Auctions facilitated the sale of an 1861 Paquet Liberty Head double eagle, graded MS-67 CAC, for $7,200,000. This coin, originating from the United States, was previously owned by the Norweb collection. 

Renowned for its exceptional quality and rarity, this particular double eagle commands significant attention among collectors. The sale of this coin underscores its enduring appeal and desirability within the numismatic community.

Also Read – 10 Most Valuable Morgan Silver Dollars

Conclusion:

Coin collecting is an enjoyable hobby, involving the gathering and sorting of coins. However, it’s essential to consider the tax implications when profiting from collectibles. The collectibles tax rate of 28 percent can exceed rates on stocks and other financial assets. Before transitioning your hobby into a business or side gig, assess the taxes you’ll owe on your profits.

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