Coin collecting, or numismatics, is a fascinating hobby that has the potential to be very rewarding. Some rare coins can become incredibly valuable, with collectors willing to pay millions for them. One of the most impressive examples is the Bicentennial Quarter, valued at an astonishing $89 million. In this article, we will explore the Bicentennial Quarter and six other rare coins worth more than $999,999. We’ll look into their history, significance, special characteristics, and why they are so valuable.
$89 Million Bicentennial Quarter
The Bicentennial Quarter was minted in 1976 to celebrate America’s 200th year of independence. It was part of a special collection that also included half-dollar and dollar coins. This coin is unique because it features two dates, “1776-1976,” on the front. On the back, you’ll see a Colonial drummer boy and 13 stars representing the original American colonies.
Special Features
- Design: The front (obverse) has George Washington’s profile, while the back (reverse) shows a drummer boy.
- Composition: Some of these quarters were made with 40% silver, while most were copper-nickel clad.
- Rarity: Although millions of these quarters were produced, a few rare variations or mint error coins are extremely valuable, with one being worth an astonishing $89 million.
1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar
The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar is believed to be the first silver dollar ever made by the U.S. Mint. It is one of the rarest and most valuable coins in American history.
Special Features
- Design: The front shows Lady Liberty with flowing hair, while the back displays an eagle.
- Composition: Made of 90% silver and 10% copper.
- Rarity: Fewer than 150 coins are known to exist today.
Value
A high-quality specimen of the 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar sold for about $10 million at auction in 2013, making it one of the most expensive coins ever sold.
1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
This gold coin is one of the rarest in the world. Though 445,500 were minted, they were never released to the public due to President Roosevelt’s decision to halt the use of gold during the Great Depression.
Special Features
- Design: The front shows Lady Liberty holding a torch, while the back shows an eagle in flight.
- Composition: Made of 90% gold and 10% copper.
- Rarity: Most of these coins were melted down, and only a few survived.
Value
One of these coins sold for $7.59 million in 2002, and its value has only increased since.
1804 Silver Dollar
Known as the “King of American Coins,” the 1804 Silver Dollar is extremely rare and highly valued by collectors.
Special Features
- Design: The front shows Liberty, and the back has a heraldic eagle.
- Composition: Made of 90% silver and 10% copper.
- Rarity: Only 15 examples of this coin are known to exist.
Value
Depending on its class and condition, this coin can fetch up to $4 million.
1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the rarest coins in the world, with only five known to exist.
Special Features
- Design: The front shows Lady Liberty wearing a coronet, and the back displays the Roman numeral “V” for five.
- Composition: Made of 75% copper and 25% nickel.
Value
These nickels have sold for as much as $4.5 million at auction, with one selling for this price in 2018.
1943 Copper Penny
During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched to making steel pennies to conserve copper for the war effort. However, a few copper pennies were accidentally struck, making them extremely rare.
Special Features
- Design: The front shows Abraham Lincoln, and the back features wheat stalks.
- Composition: Made of 95% copper and 5% tin.
Value
These pennies can sell for as much as $1.7 million due to their rarity.
1955 Double Die Penny
The 1955 Double Die Penny is famous for its clear doubling of the date and lettering on the front of the coin.
Special Features
- Design: The front shows Abraham Lincoln, and the back has wheat stalks.
- Composition: Made of 95% copper and 5% tin.
Value
In mint condition, these pennies can be worth up to $125,000, with some fetching nearly $1 million.
Conclusion
Collecting rare coins can be both a rewarding hobby and a potentially profitable investment. The value of these coins depends on their rarity, condition, and historical significance. From the Bicentennial Quarter worth $89 million to the Double Die Penny, these coins have fascinating stories behind their immense value, making them prized treasures for collectors.
FAQ’s
How much is a 1776-1976 Bicentennial Quarter worth?
A regular Bicentennial Quarter is worth 25 cents, but rare ones in perfect condition can be worth much more, up to $6 or more for collectors.
What makes the 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar so valuable?
Its historical significance as the first U.S. silver dollar and its extreme rarity make it highly valuable.
Why was the 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle never released?
The U.S. government stopped the use of gold during the Great Depression, and most of these coins were melted down.
What is the rarest U.S. coin?
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the rarest, with only five known to exist.
How much is a 1943 Copper Penny worth?
These rare pennies can sell for up to $1.7 million at auction.