Imagine walking through a cornfield and discovering a hidden treasure! That’s exactly what happened when over 700 rare gold coins were found buried in a cornfield in Kentucky. These coins date back to the time of the US Civil War and are now expected to sell for millions of dollars at auction.
Discovery of the “Great Kentucky Hoard”
Earlier this year, a man found this incredible treasure while digging on a farm in Kentucky. The exact location of the find and the identity of the finder have not been shared. A video posted on GovMint.com shows the man excitedly digging up the coins and saying, “this is the most insane thing ever!”
Details About the Coins
The coins discovered are dated between 1840 and 1863 and include several types of gold coins:
- $1 Gold Indians
- $10 Gold Libertys
- $20 Gold Libertys
Among these, there are 18 very rare $20 Gold Libertys minted in 1863 in Philadelphia. These specific coins can sell for six-figure amounts, making them extremely valuable to collectors.
Importance of the Discovery
Jeff Garrett, a rare coin dealer, emphasized how significant this discovery is. He explained, “The stunning number of over 700 gold dollars represents a virtual time capsule of Civil War-era coinage.” This means that these coins give us a glimpse into the past, specifically during the Civil War period.
Table of Key Information About the Great Kentucky Hoard
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Total Coins Found | Over 700 |
| Estimated Auction Value | Millions of dollars |
| Date Range of Coins | 1840 to 1863 |
| Types of Coins Found | $1 Gold Indians, $10 Gold Libertys, $20 Gold Libertys |
| Number of Rare $20 Gold Libertys | 18 |
| Historical Significance | Represents Civil War-era coinage |
Historical Context
Kentucky was neutral during the Civil War from 1861 to 1865. However, it still became part of the conflict. The Numismatic Guaranty Company, which certified the coins, suggests that the “Great Kentucky Hoard” may have been hidden due to the chaos of the Civil War and remained lost for over 150 years.
What’s Next for the Coins?
The coins are now being put up for sale, and experts expect them to fetch millions at auction. Collectors and investors are eagerly waiting to see how much these historic coins will sell for. This discovery is a reminder of how much history can be hidden right beneath our feet!
Conclusion
The discovery of the Great Kentucky Hoard is an incredible story of treasure found and history uncovered. Over 700 gold coins from the Civil War era have been hidden for more than 150 years, now ready to be auctioned off and appreciated by collectors. This event reminds us that treasures from the past can still be discovered today, often in the most unexpected places. As the auction approaches, many are curious about how much these historic coins will sell for, and what new stories they will tell about our nation’s past.
FAQ’s
What is the Great Kentucky Hoard?
The Great Kentucky Hoard is a collection of over 700 rare gold coins found buried in a cornfield in Kentucky. They date back to the Civil War era.
Why are these coins so valuable?
These coins are rare and date back to a significant period in American history. Some of them, like the $20 Gold Libertys from 1863, can sell for six-figure amounts.
What will happen to the coins now?
The coins are being put up for auction, where experts expect them to sell for millions of dollars due to their rarity and historical importance.