Collecting coins can be an exciting hobby, especially when you discover a rare gem worth more than $1,200! Coin collectors often search for these unique pieces, which can be valuable due to their rarity, historical importance, and condition. In this article, we’ll explore seven rare coins that are highly sought after by collectors. Each coin has a special story and can fetch impressive prices.
Table of Rare Coins Worth Over $1,200
Coin Name | Year Minted | Notable Features | Estimated Value |
---|---|---|---|
1849 Coronet Head Gold Double Eagle | 1849 | One of the first $20 gold coins | Millions (depending on condition) |
1916-D Mercury Dime | 1916 | Lowest mintage in the series | Over $1,200 |
1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel | 1937 | Mint error – missing front leg | Over $1,200 |
1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar | 1794 | One of the first U.S. silver dollars | Millions (depending on condition) |
1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar | 1893 | Lowest mintage in the series | Over $1,200 |
1955 Double Die Lincoln Cent | 1955 | Misaligned minting – doubled dates | Over $1,200 |
2000-P Sacagawea Dollar “Cheerios” | 2000 | Unique tail feather design | Over $1,200 |
1. 1849 Coronet Head Gold Double Eagle
The 1849 Coronet Head Gold Double Eagle is a significant coin in U.S. history. It was minted during the California Gold Rush and is one of the first $20 gold coins ever made. There are only a few known to exist today, making it extremely rare. Its historical importance and limited availability mean that when it’s in good condition, it can easily be worth millions of dollars.
2. 1916-D Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury Dime is notable for being the lowest minted coin in its series, with only about 264,000 produced. This rarity makes it highly desirable among collectors, especially in higher grades. In uncirculated condition, this dime can sell for over $1,200, with even higher prices for top-quality examples.
3. 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel
The 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel is famous for its mint error. A mistake during the minting process led to the buffalo losing its front leg, creating this unique version of the coin. Although millions of Buffalo Nickels were made, the three-legged variety is much rarer. A good-quality version can easily sell for over $1,200.
4. 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar
The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar is one of the earliest silver dollars ever minted by the U.S. government. Its age and rarity make it a prized possession for collectors. Very few of these coins exist in excellent condition, and those that do can fetch well above $1,200, often reaching into the millions.
5. 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar
Known as the “king of Morgan Dollars,” the 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar is the rarest in the series, with only 100,000 minted. Many of these coins were circulated, leaving only a few in excellent condition. Even lower-grade examples of this coin can command prices over $1,200, with mint-condition versions being especially valuable.
6. 1955 Double Die Lincoln Cent
The 1955 Double Die Lincoln Cent is famous among collectors for being one of the most recognized error coins. Due to a misalignment during the minting process, the inscriptions and dates on these cents appear doubled. Although the exact number produced is unknown, this coin is considered rare and can easily exceed $1,200 in high grades.
7. 2000-P Sacagawea Dollar “Cheerios”
The 2000-P Sacagawea Dollar, also known as the “Cheerios” dollar, is a modern rarity. This coin was included in Cheerios cereal boxes as a promotional item and features a unique tail feather design. Only 5,500 of these were released, making them hard to find. In mint condition, they can sell for over $1,200, attracting both coin collectors and fans of unique promotions.
Conclusion
Collecting rare coins is an exciting journey filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. Each of these seven coins tells a unique story and offers a glimpse into the history of U.S. currency. Whether you are an experienced collector or just starting, searching for these rare gems can be both thrilling and rewarding. The value of these coins not only reflects their rarity but also their historical significance in American culture. Keep exploring the world of numismatics, as you never know what treasures you might find!
FAQs
What makes a coin rare and valuable?
A coin’s rarity and value are typically determined by several factors, including its mintage (how many were produced), demand among collectors, historical significance, condition (grade), and unique features (such as mint errors).
How can I tell if my coin is valuable?
Research its mintage and rarity through coin guides or databases.
Where can I buy or sell rare coins?
Coin shows or conventions where collectors gather.
What is the best way to care for my rare coins?
Handle them with clean, dry hands or wear cotton gloves to avoid fingerprints and oils.