In this article, we will be highlighting the top 10 most valuable US coins. The United States has a rich history of coin production, with many different designs and denominations having been produced over the years. Some of these coins have become highly sought after by collectors due to their rarity, beauty, or historical significance.
#1 1787 Brasher Doubloon – The First US Gold Coin
Photographic credit to Heritage Auctions
The 1787 Brasher Doubloon is a historic gold coin that was minted by Ephraim Brasher, a goldsmith and silversmith who lived in New York City. It is considered to be the first gold coin produced in the United States, and is extremely rare with only a few examples known to exist. This coin features the initials “EB” on the eagle side, which stands for Ephraim Brasher.
#2 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle – The Most Valuable US Coin
The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is a gold coin that was designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, one of the most famous sculptors in American history. This coin is highly coveted by collectors due to its rarity, as it was never released into circulation due to the Gold Recall Act of 1933. Only a few examples of this coin are known to exist, making it one of the most valuable US coins in the world.
#3 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar – The First US Silver Dollar
Image Credit to the National Numismatic Collection, National Museum of American History
The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar is a historic coin that was the first silver dollar ever produced by the United States Mint. It features a design of Lady Liberty with flowing hair on the obverse, and an eagle on the reverse. This coin is highly sought after by collectors due to its rarity and historical significance.
#4 1913 Liberty Head Nickel – The Most Valuable Nickel
Image Credit to the National Numismatic Collection, National Museum of American History
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is a rare coin that was produced by the United States Mint in 1913. It features the image of Lady Liberty on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse. This coin is highly valued by collectors due to its rarity, as only five examples are known to exist.
#5 1793 Chain Cent – The First US Penny
The 1793 Chain Cent is a historic coin that was the first penny ever produced by the United States Mint. It features a design of Lady Liberty on the obverse, and a chain on the reverse. This coin is highly sought after by collectors due to its rarity and historical significance.
#6 1907 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle – The Most Beautiful US Coin
Image Credit to the National Numismatic Collection, National Museum of American History.
The 1907 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is considered by many to be the most beautiful US coin ever minted. Designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, the coin features a stunning depiction of Lady Liberty striding forward, her hair and robe flowing in the wind. The reverse side of the coin features an eagle in flight, its wings spread wide. The coin is made of gold and was minted from 1907 to 1933. It is highly sought after by collectors due to its rarity and beauty, with some examples selling for over $1 million at auction.
#7 1913 Liberty Head Nickel – The Most Valuable Nickel
 Photographic credit to Heritage Auctions
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the most valuable and controversial coins in US history. Only five examples of the coin are known to exist, making it extremely rare and highly sought after by collectors. The coin was designed by James Earle Fraser and features a depiction of Lady Liberty on the obverse and a buffalo on the reverse. The coins were struck in secret and are believed to have been made for a collector who wanted to own a complete set of nickels from every year of production. The coins were not discovered until 1920, and their authenticity has been the subject of much debate and controversy over the years.
#8 1894-S Barber Dime – The Rarest Dime in Top 10 Most Valuable US Coins
Image Credit to Professional Coin Grading Service
The 1894-S Barber Dime is one of the rarest and most valuable coins in the US. The coin was designed by Charles E. Barber and features a depiction of Lady Liberty on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse. Only 24 examples of the coin are known to exist, making it highly sought after by collectors. The coin is made of silver and was minted in San Francisco in 1894. One example of the coin sold for over $1.9 million at auction, making it one of the most valuable dimes in the world.
#9 1787 Brasher Doubloon – The First Gold Coin Minted in the US
Photographic credit to Heritage Auctions
The 1787 Brasher Doubloon is one of the most famous and valuable coins in US history. The coin was minted by Ephraim Brasher, a goldsmith and neighbor of George Washington. It is made of gold and features a depiction of the sun on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse. The coin is highly sought after due to its rarity and historical significance, with some examples selling for over $7 million at auction.
#10 1838-O Capped Bust Half Dollar – The Rarest Half Dollar
The 1838-O Capped Bust Half Dollar is considered to be the rarest half dollar in existence. Only a few of these coins were minted and only one is known to still be in existence today. It was discovered in the mid-1900s and has since become one of the most valuable US coins. The coin features a bust of Liberty on the obverse side and an eagle on the reverse. It is made of 90% silver and 10% copper and has a diameter of approximately 30 millimeters. This coin is highly sought after by collectors due to its rarity and historical significance.
Conclusion
The top 10 most valuable US coins are a testament to the rich history and cultural significance of American coinage. From the rare and elusive 1913 Liberty Nickel to the iconic 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar, these coins are highly prized by collectors and investors for their rarity, historical significance, and aesthetic appeal. Whether you are a seasoned collector or just starting out, these top 10 most valuable US coins are sure to inspire and impress with their beauty and value.
