If you’ve ever held onto old coins thinking they might be valuable one day, you may be in for a surprise. Some rare coins in the U.S. have fetched millions at auction, turning casual collectors into overnight millionaires. These coins are more than just currency—they’re pieces of American history. Here are five of the rarest and most valuable coins ever sold, along with where to look for more information if you think you might own one.
1. 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle – Sold for $18.9 Million
The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is a $20 gold coin that holds the record for the most expensive coin ever sold at auction. Although 445,500 of these coins were minted, almost all were melted down after the U.S. abandoned the gold standard in 1933. Only a few survived—and just one is legal to own.
In 2021, that sole privately-owned specimen was sold at Sotheby’s for a jaw-dropping $18.9 million. It’s considered a holy grail among collectors.
2. 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar – Sold for $10 Million
Believed to be the first silver dollar ever issued by the United States, the 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar features Lady Liberty with flowing hair on one side and an eagle on the other. This coin represents the birth of the American dollar system.
An exceptionally well-preserved version of this coin fetched $10 million in 2013, making it one of the most expensive coins ever sold. This coin’s historical significance boosts its value even more than its rarity.
3. 1787 Brasher Doubloon – Sold for $9.36 Million
The Brasher Doubloon, minted by New York goldsmith Ephraim Brasher, predates the U.S. Mint and is one of America’s earliest gold coins. Notably, Brasher stamped his initials “EB” on the coin, with some versions featuring the stamp on the eagle’s breast and others on the wing.
In 2021, one of the eagle-breast stamped Brasher Doubloons sold for $9.36 million. It’s considered one of the rarest privately minted coins in U.S. history.
4. 1822 Capped Head Left Half Eagle – Sold for $8.4 Million
This $5 gold coin is one of the rarest coins in American numismatics. Although 17,796 were minted in 1822, only three are known to exist today. Two are permanently housed in the Smithsonian Institution.
In 2021, the only specimen held in private hands was sold for $8.4 million, reflecting both its rarity and historical value.
5. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel – Sold for $4.56 Million
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is surrounded by mystery—it was never officially released by the U.S. Mint, and only five examples are known to exist. These coins were secretly struck and eventually surfaced in the 1920s.
In 2018, one specimen was sold for $4.56 million, largely due to its secretive past and extremely limited quantity.
How To Tell If You Have a Valuable Coin
If you believe you might own a rare coin, consult a professional numismatist or a reputable grading service like:
You can also compare your coins using high-resolution images and guides available on government and educational sites like the U.S. Mint or the Smithsonian.
Final Thoughts
Rare coins like the 1933 Double Eagle or the 1794 Silver Dollar are not just collector’s items—they are historical treasures. With the right knowledge and a little luck, a coin tucked away in a drawer could turn out to be worth millions. Be sure to check your change jars, inherited collections, or old boxes—you never know what treasure might be hiding there.
This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.
Filza specializes in simplifying financial topics for everyday readers. Whether breaking down Canada’s tax guides or U.S. benefits like SNAP and VA Disability, Filza’s relatable writing style ensures readers feel confident and informed. Follow her insights on LinkedIn or reach out via email at [email protected].