Starting a coin collection is an exciting endeavor to undertake. It gives you a chance to learn new facts and also obtain a physical piece of history. It’s every collector’s dream to find a rare coin, and knowing what to look for can make that into a reality. Use this guide to familiarize yourself with the most well-known pieces and their significance in U.S. History.

What Are Some of the Rarest Coins?

1. 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar

Known for the silver plug at its center, this coin is believed to be the first dollar piece ever made in the United States. It has never come into direct contact with other coins and features a perfect alignment around the plug due to it being manufactured with brand-new equipment. It recently sold at an auction for $10 million.

2. 1804 Draped Bust Dollar

The Jackson administration wanted to impress foreign dignitaries with intricate coin sets. However, the mint hadn’t produced silver dollars in over 30 years in an effort to deter counterfeits.

They made eight silver dollars for the event, stamping each with the year, “1804.” These are now the only dollar coins to feature such a date, and they are valued at more than $1 million each.

3. 1849 Coronet Head Gold $20 Double Eagle

Recognized for its rarity and value, this coin was a test of the Philadelphia Mint’s new double eagle denomination design. The California Gold Rush was causing such an influx of gold that the only practical solution was to produce a larger coin. This particular item is found within the National Numismatic Collection at the Smithsonian Institute and is valued between $10 and $20 million.

4. 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle

During the Depression, President Roosevelt decided that the nation wasn’t going to adhere to the gold standard and asked for a recall of all gold coins. Whether through smuggling or general loss, a dozen coins never made it back to the mint.

The Secret Service managed to confiscate one when it made an appearance in 1992. By 2002, it had sold at an auction for more than $7 million.

If you want to start a coin collection, stop by Ashmore Rare Coins & Metals in Greensboro, NC. They’re a full-service coin dealer that has been in the business since 1987. Their president, Ash Harrison, is one of the top Morgan Dollar specialists in the country and is known as one of the largest silver, platinum, and gold buyers in the state. Call (336) 617-7537 or visit their website for additional information on their in-store coin collection.