Rare coins have proven to be extremely lucrative investments, with some coins achieving remarkable returns. Here, we explore three of the most valuable rare coin investments, each of which has generated profits exceeding $25 million.
1. The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
Overview:
- Designer: Augustus Saint-Gaudens
- Design: Depicts Lady Liberty holding a torch and an olive branch, with an eagle in flight on the reverse.
- History: Originally, 445,500 coins were minted in 1933, but most were melted down following President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Executive Order 6102, which aimed to end gold hoarding. Only a few coins survived this process, making them extraordinarily rare.
Value and Sales:
- Record Sale: One of these coins was sold for $7.59 million in 2002, setting a world record at that time.
- Total Profits: Collectively, the sales of surviving specimens have generated profits exceeding $25 million.
2. The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar
Overview:
- Designer: Robert Scot
- Design: Features Lady Liberty with flowing hair on the obverse and an eagle surrounded by a wreath on the reverse.
- Significance: This was the first silver dollar minted by the United States, with an initial mintage of approximately 1,758 coins. Due to the coin’s historical importance and rarity, only a few have survived in mint condition.
Value and Sales:
- Record Sale: An exceptional specimen of the 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar was auctioned for $10 million in January 2013, making it the most expensive coin ever sold at that time.
- Total Profits: The cumulative value of these coins has surpassed $25 million, driven by their rarity and historical significance.
3. The 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar
Overview:
- Designer: Robert Scot
- Design: Features a portrait of Liberty with her hair tied in a ribbon on the obverse and a heraldic eagle with a shield on the reverse.
- History: Known as the “King of American Coins,” the 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar was actually minted in the 1830s and 1850s for diplomatic gifts and special proof sets. Only 15 specimens are known to exist, categorized into three classes based on their minting period and purpose.
Value and Sales:
- Record Sale: The “Dexter Specimen” of this coin was sold for $4.14 million in August 1999.
- Total Profits: Sales of the various known specimens have driven their total value well over $25 million, reinforcing their status as some of the most coveted coins in the numismatic world.
Summary Table
| Coin | Designer | Initial Mintage | Highest Recorded Sale | Total Profits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle | Augustus Saint-Gaudens | 445,500 | $7.59 million | $25 million+ |
| 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar | Robert Scot | 1,758 | $10 million | $25 million+ |
| 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar | Robert Scot | 15 known | $4.14 million | $25 million+ |
Conclusion
Investing in rare coins can be incredibly profitable, combining historical significance, artistic value, and financial returns. The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle, 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar, and 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar have all achieved legendary status in the numismatic world, generating exceptional profits for their owners. These coins are not just monetary assets but are also rich in history and artistry, making them highly sought after by collectors and investors. For those looking to diversify their investment portfolios with tangible assets, rare coins present a compelling opportunity.
For more detailed information, visit the original article