Coin collectors were recently stunned by an incredible numismatic discovery—a rare Bicentennial Quarter valued at a staggering $69 million. This unexpected treasure showcases the historical and monetary significance of rare coins.
But the Bicentennial Quarter isn’t the only hidden gem in the world of coin collecting. Here are nine other rare coins, each worth over $999,999, that have captivated collectors and investors alike.
1. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel – One of the Rarest Coins Ever
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is among the rarest and most famous U.S. coins, with only five known specimens.
- Its mysterious origins (it was never officially authorized for minting) make it a legendary piece.
- One sold for $4.56 million in 2018, and another specimen is valued at well over $5 million today.
Why It’s Valuable:
Its extreme rarity and unique backstory make it a dream coin for collectors.
2. 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar – The First U.S. Silver Dollar
The 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar holds historic importance as the first silver dollar minted by the United States.
- With only 1,758 coins struck, very few exist today.
- One of the finest known specimens sold for $10 million in 2013.
Why It’s Valuable:
Being the first-ever silver dollar, this coin represents the birth of American currency.
3. 1933 Double Eagle – The Most Famous U.S. Gold Coin
The 1933 Double Eagle is one of the most valuable gold coins in the world.
- Minted but never officially released due to the U.S. moving off the gold standard.
- A single specimen sold for $7.6 million in 2002, and another broke records at $18.9 million in 2021.
Why It’s Valuable:
Due to its legal controversy and rarity, the few surviving examples are worth millions.
4. 1796 Draped Bust Quarter – A Rare Early Minting
The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter is a key piece in early American coinage, with only 6,146 minted.
- High-grade examples regularly sell for over $1 million at auction.
- Its early date and low mintage make it a cornerstone of U.S. numismatics.
Why It’s Valuable:
It’s one of the first U.S. quarters ever produced and remains extremely rare.
5. 1907 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle – The Most Beautiful U.S. Coin
The 1907 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is often considered the most stunning U.S. coin design.
- Designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, it features a high-relief engraving.
- Some variations have sold for over $3 million.
Why It’s Valuable:
Its artistic beauty and numismatic significance make it highly desirable.
6. 1804 Silver Dollar – The “King of American Coins”
The 1804 Silver Dollar is one of the most famous rarities, even though it was actually minted in the 1830s as a diplomatic gift.
- Only 15 known examples exist today.
- One specimen sold for over $3 million at auction.
Why It’s Valuable:
Its historical intrigue and extreme rarity make it a top-tier collectible.
7. 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter – A One-Year Rarity
The 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter is highly coveted, with only 52,000 minted.
- Most were heavily circulated, making mint-condition examples exceptionally rare.
- High-grade specimens have sold for over $1 million.
Why It’s Valuable:
It’s a low-mintage first-year issue, adding to its historical appeal.
8. 1894-S Barber Dime – The Ultimate Dime Rarity
The 1894-S Barber Dime is one of the rarest U.S. dimes, with only 24 ever minted.
- Just nine specimens are known today.
- Some examples have sold for over $2 million.
Why It’s Valuable:
Its ultra-low mintage and mystery make it one of the most sought-after dimes.
9. 1943 Copper Penny – A Wartime Error Worth Millions
During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched to zinc-coated steel pennies to conserve copper. However, a few copper planchets were mistakenly used.
- Only about 40 are known to exist.
- One sold for $1.7 million in 2010.
Why It’s Valuable:
A wartime minting mistake makes it one of the most famous error coins.
10. The $69 Million Bicentennial Quarter – A Numismatic Surprise
The Bicentennial Quarter, minted in 1976 to celebrate America’s 200th anniversary, is usually common. However, a rare error version or special variety has been valued at a jaw-dropping $69 million.
- Features the drummer boy reverse and dual date 1776-1976.
- Some special-mint versions or rare errors make them worth millions.
Why It’s Valuable:
A rare variation or error type has made this the most shocking coin discovery in recent history.
Table: Rare Coins Worth Over $999,999
| Coin | Year | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | Over $5 million |
| 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar | 1794 | Over $10 million |
| 1933 Double Eagle | 1933 | $18.9 million (record) |
| 1796 Draped Bust Quarter | 1796 | Over $1 million |
| 1907 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle | 1907 | Over $3 million |
| 1804 Silver Dollar | 1804 | Over $3 million |
| 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter | 1916 | Over $1 million |
| 1894-S Barber Dime | 1894 | Over $2 million |
| 1943 Copper Penny | 1943 | Over $1.7 million |
| 1976 Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 | $69 million (rare version) |
Final Thoughts
The recent discovery of a $69 million Bicentennial Quarter proves that hidden treasures are still out there. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a beginner, checking your spare change could lead you to a fortune!
FAQs
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the rarest, with only five known examples.
It’s valued at over $10 million, as it was the first U.S. silver dollar ever minted.
It was never officially released, making it one of the rarest gold coins in history.
Yes! Some rare error coins or old key dates still turn up in everyday change.
Look for mint errors, rarity, and historical significance, or consult a numismatic expert.