Number lovers are called “numismatics,” and the world is full of rare and valuable coins. Some coins are so valuable that they are worth millions. However, most coins are worth only as much as the value stamped on them. But some coins are so rare that their value reaches crores. Let’s learn about some special and valuable coins and what makes them so priceless.
1976 Bicentennial Quarter – $49 million (about Rs 402 crore)
The Bicentennial Quarter was issued in 1976 to celebrate 200 years of Independence Day for the United States. Designed on the reverse of this coin by Jack L. Ahr, featuring a portrait of a boy playing the drum and “1776–1976.” The obverse bears a portrait of George Washington.
Most Bicentennial quarters are made of copper and nickel and are worth 25 cents. However, some rare coins were made of 40% silver and were produced for special test sets. Some such coins accidentally entered general circulation, which makes them extremely rare.
These silver Bicentennial quarters can be worth up to $49 million (roughly Rs. 402 crores). Their rarity and excellent condition make them so valuable.
1. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel – $20 million (roughly Rs. 164 crores)
1913 Liberty Head Nickel: is one of the most famous coins among coin collectors. The reason for its high price is its rarity and historical significance. This coin was only minted 5 times, which makes it one of the rarest coins in the world.
In 1913, the Liberty Head design was replaced by the buffalo nickel. But some coins with old designs were accidentally remade. One of these coins was sold for $20 million (about Rs 164 crores) in a private auction in 2018.
2.1894-S Barber Dime – $10 million (about Rs 82 crores)
Another super rare coin is the Barber Dime coin from the year 1894-S. Only 24 were struck in the San Francisco Mint.
Due to the unavailability of this coin, it has been listed for as high as $10 million to $10 million (about Rs 82 crores). However, if this piece of coin is in mint condition, it may be worth far more than any typical coin. It also is exciting in its revolutionary aspect in the United States‘s history of money.
3. 1969-S Double Die Obverse Penny – $3 million (approximately Rs 24 crores)
1969-S Double Die Obverse Penny** is a famous coin with a mistake. During its making, the minting process went wrong, causing the design to be printed twice.
The damage is most visible on the word “LIBERTY” and the date, where it looks like the letters and numbers were printed twice.
If this coin is in excellent condition, its price can go up to $3 million (approximately Rs 24 crores). This mistake is a highlight for coin collectors.
4.1955 Double Die Lincoln Cent – $1.5 million (approximately Rs 12 crores)
The 1955 Double Die Lincoln Cent is also a coin with a mistake. During its minting, the front side was printed twice, causing the design of the date and letters to appear double.
This coin is one of the most famous faulty coins in American history. If it is in perfect condition, it can be worth up to $1.5 million (about Rs 12 crores).
Conclusion
Coins are not merely the ingredients of our quotidian transactions; they are invaluable works of history and art. The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, and 1894-S Barber Dime—among other rare, precious coins—are worth their metals and unique stories and history, which ultimately make them invaluable.
And if you are interested in coins as well, then search for the old coins in your home and your pocket money. Maybe you too will discover some fundamental coin on the loose that can bestow you its wealth.