Coins have existed for millennia, but few have risen to the elite ranks of being worth more than $10 million apiece. They’re not merely money – they’re artifacts, they’re symbols of power, and coveted possessions of the world’s most serious collectors.
Let’s go deep into the realm of rare coins and discover 7 mythical coins that have either been sold or appraised at over $10 million.
1. 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle – $18.9 Million
Location: United States
Sold: Sotheby’s Auction, 2021
The 1933 Double Eagle is the world’s most celebrated and expensive coin. While 445,500 were produced, nearly all were melted down during the Great Depression when the U.S. suspended the gold standard.
Few survived destruction, and one was sold legally in 2021 to an unidentified buyer for a record $18.9 million, the most expensive coin ever auctioned.
2. Flowing Hair Silver Dollar (1794) – $12 Million
Country: United States
Sold: Private Sale, 2022
Thought to be the very first silver dollar produced by the U.S. Mint, the 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar is a linchpin in American numismatics.
A specimen, in incredibly good condition, sold for well over $12 million in a private sale, much of which was based on its significance in history and its excellent state of preservation.
3. Brasher Doubloon (1787) – $9.36 Million+
Country: United States
Sold: Heritage Auctions, 2021
Though sold technically for $9.36 million, numismatists value the Brasher Doubloon today at more than $10 million.
Struck by goldsmith Ephraim Brasher, this gold coin is older than the U.S. Mint and is valued for its excellence and scarcity. Its hallmark – Brasher’s initials “EB” – make it immediately identifiable.
4. Edward III Florin (1343) – Estimated $10–15 Million
Country: England
Known Specimens: 3
This is one of the earliest and most unusual coins ever discovered in England. The Edward III Florin, also referred to as the “Double Leopard,” was struck in 1343 and never entered circulation.
Only three are known to exist, and although none have been publicly sold in recent times, numismatic experts place their value between $10 million and $15 million.
5. Umayyad Gold Dinar (723 AD) – Estimated $10–15 Million
Country: Islamic Caliphate
Sold: £3.7 million (~$6 million) in 2011; presently valued over $10M
This ancient Islamic gold coin possesses tremendous religious as well as historic significance. Having been minted from gold digged around Mecca and being inscribed with phrases referring to Islamic pilgrimage (Hajj), it assumes gigantic cultural prominence.
Due to its rarity as well as religiosity, its price has seen a huge climb, and present-day value lies above $10 million.
6. Liberty Head Nickel (1913) – Valued at $10–12 Million
Country: United States
Number of Known Specimens: 5
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel was never actually released. There are only five known, and they are of almost mythical status among American coin collectors.
One of the specimens, the “Hawaii Five-O” coin, is one of the most well preserved and currently sells for between $10 and $12 million based on previous sales and collector demand.
7. 2007 Canadian $1 Million Gold Coin – Worth Over $10 Million
Country: Canada
Weight: 100 kg (99.999% pure gold)
Although its face value is $1 million, this coin weighs 100 kilograms of pure gold, which is worth more than $6 million by itself. But rarity and craftsmanship push its collectible value to more than $10 million.
The Royal Canadian Mint produced only six of these giant coins, and collectors worldwide treasure them.
Why Are These Coins Worth So Much?
There are a number of reasons why a coin is worth multi-millions of dollars:
- Rarity: Few exist or survive.
- Historical Significance: Connected to turning points in history.
- Condition: Fresh coins in mint condition command a premium.
- Metal Content: Gold or silver content base confers intrinsic value.
- Cultural Significance: Coins bearing religious or political connotation are greatly sought after.
- Provenance: Belonging to famous people or having passed through legendary collections.
How to Invest in Rare Coins?
Though few can spend $10 million coins, investing in rare coins is on the rise. If you are a beginner:
- Begin with certified coins from NGC or PCGS.
- Seek out limited mintage coins.
- Study coin history and grading.
- Attend auctions and get to know dealers.
- Keep your eyes peeled for fakes or tampered coins.
Where to Spot These Coins?
A number of the legendary coins rest in:
- Smithsonian Institution (USA)
- British Museum (UK)
- National Numismatic Collection
- Private Collections
You can spot a glimpse as well at top-tier numismatic conventions or worldwide auctions.
FAQ’s
Q. What is the costliest coin to be sold?
A. The Double Eagle of 1933 has a record of $18.9 million, selling at Sotheby’s in 2021.
Q. How many coins are priced over $10 million?
A. There are at least 7 coins available for sale or worth over $10 million based on rarity, history, and grade.
Q. Can a beginner invest in valuable coins?
A. Yes! Begin small with certified coins, learn about grading, and gradually move up as your knowledge increases.