The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The world of numismatics, the study or collection of currency, often surprises with its tales of rare coins. Among these, the 1913 Liberty Head nickel holds a unique place. This American five-cent coin was never officially minted for circulation. Despite this, five known examples exist today, making them immensely valuable.
The rarity can be traced to the decision to switch designs from the Liberty Head to the Indian Head, or Buffalo, design in 1913. This means the Liberty Head nickels should have stopped production in 1912. Yet, a small handful made it into existence. These are believed to have been struck unofficially, possibly as midnight coins, a term used when mint workers illegally produced coins after hours.
One of these coins recently sold for over $5 million at auction. The allure comes not only from its rarity but also from the mystery surrounding its creation. Collectors and historians still debate how and why these coins were produced. The story behind each of the five known examples is thick with intrigue.
The 1804 Silver Dollar
Another legend in the world of rare coins is the 1804 Silver Dollar. Often dubbed as the King of American Coins, it wasn’t actually minted in 1804. The U.S. Mint struck these coins in the 1830s for inclusion in diplomatic gift sets. Only 15 are known to exist.
The Class I specimens were created for presentation purposes to foreign dignitaries. Class II and Class III examples emerged later, often under mysterious circumstances, potentially from restrikes not officially sanctioned.
In 1999, a Class I 1804 Silver Dollar fetched over $4 million. Each coin’s provenance is carefully tracked, often etched with stories of high-profile owners including kings and industrial magnates. These coins represent an important slice of American history, being tangible relics of the early days of the nation’s economic and diplomatic expansion.
The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar
The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar is celebrated as a cornerstone of American coinage. It represents the first standard silver dollar produced by the U.S. government. Many believe it might include the first silver dollar struck at the young U.S. Mint.
Research suggests only 1,758 such coins were minted in 1794. Surviving the passage of time wears many coins, but nearly 150 are known today. In 2013, one particular high-quality specimen sold for more than $10 million at auction. Analysts attribute this staggering price to both its historical importance and its exceptional condition, unrivaled by most fellow survivors.
This unique coin encapsulates the infancy of federal coinage and bears the artistry of the fledgling nation’s attempts to create a global financial instrument. The flowing hair design by Robert Scot depicts Liberty facing right, stars to her side, surrounded by a ring of clouds. The image evoked the young American ideals of freedom and progress.
The Unique 1787 Brasher Doubloon
Before the U.S. Mint’s establishment, coinage in America consisted mostly of foreign currency or privately struck pieces. The 1787 Brasher Doubloon is among the most famous of these early coins. It was crafted by goldsmith Ephraim Brasher in New York.
This gold coin carries a rich history of pre-federal coinage. Ephraim Brasher was an esteemed craftsman and his coins are sought after for their historical significance and rarity. There are several varieties, but the standout coin is the one bearing his signature punch on the eagle’s breast.
In early American history and commerce, these coins bore significant influence. In 2011, one such coin sold for $7.4 million. Its value is tied not only to its rarity but also to its status as one of the first truly American gold coins. Collectors prize its craftsmanship and the story it carries of the era preceding the federalization of U.S. coinage.
The Lost 1933 Double Eagle
The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is among the most storied American gold coins. Economic policy during the Great Depression led President Franklin D. Roosevelt to outlaw gold coin circulation. Consequently, the Double Eagles minted in 1933 were never issued.
Almost all were melted down, making the few surviving examples illegal to own. However, some coins escaped destruction. One such coin surfaced in 1996, leading to a legendary legal battle. This culminated in the coin being sold in 2002 for over $7 million, after the U.S. Mint granted it the unique distinction of being monetized posthumously.
This solitary coin, later joined by the discovery of more specimens, highlights the intersection of law, economy, and numismatics. The allure of the 1933 Double Eagle extends beyond its golden surface to the heart of depression-era monetary policy and its impact on American history.
The 1792 Birch Cent
The 1792 Birch Cent stands among the earliest known patterns proposed for the first-ever U.S. penny. Named after engraver Robert Birch, these coins were experimental, designed to procure congressional approval for America’s new currency system.
Very few of these prototype pennies are known to exist. Each carries stories from the dawn of U.S. coinage history. A Birch Cent is coveted by collectors for its representation of the formative years of the U.S. Mint. These coins offer a glimpse into the governments’ early attempts to establish a standardized coinage.
One Birch Cent fascinated the numismatic world when it sold for nearly $2.6 million. The demand stems from both its historical significance and its condition. Unlike other coins, these rare prototypes represent the very beginning of America’s attempt to establish a national identity through its currency.
The Elusive 1914 D Penny
The 1914 D Lincoln penny is famous for its low mintage, adding layers to its rarity. Produced at the Denver Mint, less than 1.2 million of these pennies were made. Many were lost or worn due to heavy circulation, making them highly sought after by collectors.
In top conditions, these pennies fetch substantial prices at auction. Their value lies in their scarcity combined with the cultural significance of the Lincoln cent in American culture. The penny’s place in the everyday lives of millions adds to its nostalgic allure.
The 1914 D penny eschews associated specimens by being a definitive representation of the earlier half of the 20th century. Embodying both a time-specific artifact and a cultural totem, these coins remain a hallmark in collections. Their worth goes beyond monetary value, entwined with a century of American history.