Coin Collecting: The History of It , Hobby of It and Finding Things in It
Coin collection, or, in other words numismatics, entails joining history, art and the hunt for discovery. There are some coins that are extremely valued because of their rarity, historical significance or a great story behind them. Let’s discuss 8 of those very valuable and spectacularly beautiful coins that every collector will want to keep in his collection.
1. 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Cent
This coin has quite a place in the American coin history.
Holy Grail: It was the very first Lincoln cent struck which had a design by Victor David Brenner. It had his initials (V.D.B.) inscribed on the reverse. Due to public criticism, these letters were removed, making this version rare.
Mintage: Only 484,000 coins were made at the San Francisco Mint.
Value: Coins in excellent condition can go for thousands of dollars.
2. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
This coin is surrounded by mysterious stories and is one of the most interesting coins in US coin history.
Rarity: Only 5 coins were minted without official permission.
History: These coins were unknown until the 1920s, which further increased people’s curiosity about them.
Value: One of these coins sold for over $5 million, making it historic.
3. 1943 Copper Penny
This coin became rare due to a mistake during World War II.
Background: In 1943, majority of the coins were made from zinc-coated steel to save copper during the war. Some of them have copper plates by mistake.
Rarity: Only *40 coins* are known to exist.
Value: Depending on the condition of the coin, it may be worth upto *$200,000*.
4. 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar
This coin is believed to be the first silver dollar ever minted in the US.
Design: It features Lady Liberty with flowing hair and a small eagle on the other side of the coin.
Mintage: Only 1,750 coins were made, of which very few survive in excellent condition.
Value: In 2013, a specimen of this coin sold for over $10 million.
5. 1804 Silver Dollar
This coin is known as the “King of American Coins.”
Background: Even though it’s dated 1804, it was produced in the 1830s as diplomatic gifts.
Rarity: Only 15 coins exist, divided into three categories. Of these, Class I is the most valuable.
Value: Due to its rarity and historical significance, it can be worth millions of dollars.
6. 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar
This is the rarest and most prized coin of the Morgan series.
Rarity: Only 100,000 coins were minted at the San Francisco Mint.
Value: High-quality specimens can sell for hundreds of thousands of dollars, and even those in poor condition are valuable.
7. 1870-S Seated Liberty Dollar
This coin is one of the rarest coins in U.S. history.
Story: It is believed that these coins were made for the cornerstone ceremony of the San Francisco Mint, but few coins made it into circulation.
Value: A specimen sold for over $1 million.
8. 1916 Standing Liberty Quarter
This coin was the introduction of a daring new design.
Design: Lady Liberty is depicted standing and in a defensive posture. The initial version had a partially exposed breast, which was later modified.
Rarity: Only 52,000 coins were made, making it extremely collectible.
Value: Mint condition coins can sell for over $10,000.
Why are these coins so valuable?
- Rarity: Limited mintages or accidentally created coins make these extremely rare.
- Historical significance: Each coin represents a special event or era of its time.
- Nature of Condition: There is too much of a jump in price when in mint or near-mint conditions.
It doesn’t matter whether you’re a discerning collector or a newcomer, these coins symbolize the age-less mysteries of history, art, and rare treasures. Each coin lends its own story to and is irrevocably tied to its priceless heritage.
FAQs
What makes a vintage coin valuable to collectors?
A vintage coin’s value depends on rarity, historical significance, condition, and demand among collectors in the market.
Where can I find rare vintage coins for my collection?
Rare coins can be found at auctions, coin shows, online marketplaces, or through reputable coin dealers and clubs.
How do I know the historical significance of a vintage coin?
Research the coin’s origin, minting history, and its role in historical events through books, articles, or numismatic experts.
