Have you ever wondered if that old coin in your drawer could be worth a fortune? Some rare coins have sold for over $1 million each, making them true treasures for collectors. Whether it’s a mistake from the mint or a piece of history from centuries ago, these coins prove that small change can mean big money.
Here’s a look at 11 of the most valuable coins ever sold — and what made them so special.
1. 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar — Sold for $10 Million
Often called America’s first dollar coin, this beauty from 1794 holds the record for the highest price ever paid for a coin.
Why it’s valuable:
- First official silver dollar
- Extremely limited production
- Incredible historical importance
2. 1933 Double Eagle — Sold for $18.9 Million
This $20 gold coin from 1933 was never officially released to the public. Most were melted down, making survivors incredibly rare.
Why it’s valuable:
- Government recall
- Very few legal copies exist
3. 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar — Sold for $7.68 Million
Nicknamed the “King of American Coins,” this dollar wasn’t even minted in 1804 — it was made later for diplomats.
Why it’s valuable:
- Diplomatic gifts
- Ultra-rare limited mintage
4. 1787 Brasher Doubloon — Sold for $9.36 Million
Before the U.S. had a mint, goldsmith Ephraim Brasher made this gold coin privately.
Why it’s valuable:
- Pre-U.S. Mint era
- Historical artifact
- Very few exist
5. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel — Sold for $4.56 Million
Only five known examples exist of this 1913 nickel, which was never officially released.
Why it’s valuable:
- Secretly struck
- Huge collector demand
6. 1894-S Barber Dime — Sold for $1.99 Million
Only 24 of these dimes were ever made, and just a few survive today.
Why it’s valuable:
- Extremely low mintage
- Mystery about its production
7. 1907 Ultra High Relief Double Eagle — Sold for $4.75 Million
Sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens created this beautiful coin, but the design was too complex for mass production.
Why it’s valuable:
- Artistic masterpiece
- Very limited number produced
8. 1796 Draped Bust Quarter — Sold for Over $1.5 Million
The very first quarter ever issued by the United States Mint, with an incredibly low number made.
Why it’s valuable:
- First-year issue
- Rare surviving examples
9. 1343 Edward III Florin — Sold for $6.8 Million
Going way back to medieval England, this gold coin is more than 650 years old and incredibly rare.
Why it’s valuable:
- Ancient
- Extremely rare survival
10. 1822 Half Eagle ($5 Gold Coin) — Sold for $8.4 Million
Only three examples of this coin are known, and only one is privately owned.
Why it’s valuable:
- Extreme rarity
- Historical importance
11. 2007 $1 Million Canadian Gold Maple Leaf — Sold for $4 Million
This modern coin weighs 100 kilograms and is made of 99.999% pure gold.
Why it’s valuable:
- Size and purity
- Only a few made
Quick Tips: How to Tell If Your Coin Could Be Valuable
- Look for old dates: Coins from the 1700s–1800s are most valuable.
- Check for mint errors: Misstrikes, missing dates, or odd features can be worth a lot.
- Inspect condition: Coins in better condition (no scratches or wear) sell for higher prices.
- Get it appraised: A professional can tell you if you’re holding a hidden fortune!
FAQs
1. How do I know if my coin is valuable?
Look at the year, mintmark, condition, and any unusual features. Rare dates and mint errors are key clues.
2. Should I clean my old coins before selling them?
No! Cleaning can reduce a coin’s value. Leave them as they are and have them checked by a professional.
3. Where can I sell valuable coins?
Try auction houses like Heritage Auctions, trusted coin dealers, or online platforms like Great Collections — but always verify the buyer first.
4. Can valuable coins still be found in circulation?
While rare, yes! Sometimes valuable coins pop up when people cash in old collections at banks. Always check your change!