A Simple Coin Could Make You a Millionaire – Here’s How to Find One

Coin collecting, also known as numismatics, is more than just a hobby—it’s a unique blend of history and wealth. Some coins are so rare and valuable that their worth is staggering, with a few estimated to be worth up to $96 million.

If you have a collection of old coins passed down through generations or tucked away in a piggy bank, it’s worth taking a closer look. You might just discover a hidden treasure worth millions. Here are five of the world’s most valuable coins.

1. 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar – Estimated at $96 Million

This coin holds a special place in American history as the first silver dollar ever minted in the United States. Due to its historical significance and rarity, it is one of the most sought-after coins in numismatics.

• Year: 1794
• Estimated Number Left: 150
• Features:
  • First silver dollar minted by the U.S.
  • Features a portrait of Lady Liberty on the front
  • Only 1,750 coins were originally produced

Value: A specimen was sold for $10 million in 2013, and experts estimate its worth could reach $96 million due to its historical and collectible value.

2. 1933 Double Eagle – Estimated at $96 Million

The 1933 Double Eagle is one of the rarest and most controversial U.S. coins. Though minted, it was never officially released, and most were melted down. Only a few remain, making them extremely valuable.

• Year: 1933
• Estimated Number Left: 13–15
• Features:
  • A $20 gold coin designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens
  • Never legally issued; once illegal to own
  • The U.S. government owns most surviving specimens

Value: A specimen was auctioned for $7.59 million in 2002. Due to its rarity and legal battles, its estimated value has skyrocketed to $96 million.

3. 1787 Brasher Doubloon – Estimated at $96 Million

The Brasher Doubloon is one of the most historic American coins, created before the U.S. Mint even existed. It was struck by goldsmith Ephraim Brasher, a neighbor of George Washington, making it an important artifact of early American history.

• Year: 1787
• Estimated Number Left: 7
• Features:
  • Features an eagle resembling the Great Seal of the U.S.
  • Engraved with the initials “EB” (Ephraim Brasher)
  • Created before official U.S. currency was established

Value: One specimen was auctioned for $9.36 million in 2021. Experts estimate an exceptional specimen could be worth up to $96 million.

4. 1849 Double Eagle – Estimated at $96 Million

This was the first-ever $20 gold coin, minted during the height of the California Gold Rush. However, only one specimen is known to exist, making it one of the most unique and valuable coins in the world.

• Year: 1849
• Estimated Number Left: 1
• Features:
  • First $20 gold coin in U.S. history
  • Never put into circulation
  • Preserved in the Smithsonian Institution

Value: Since this coin has never been auctioned, its exact worth remains unknown. However, due to its uniqueness, experts estimate it could sell for up to $96 million if ever made available.

5. 723 Umayyad Gold Dinar – Estimated at $96 Million

The Umayyad Gold Dinar is one of the rarest and most historically significant Islamic coins. It dates back to the early Islamic Caliphate, making it a prized artifact in numismatics.

• Year: 723 AD
• Estimated Number Left: About a dozen
• Features:
  • Struck in Damascus
  • Features a special inscription referencing the Caliph’s mine
  • Symbolizes the power and influence of the Umayyad Caliphate

Value: One specimen was sold in 2019 for $4.8 million, and a premium example could be worth up to $96 million.

How to Identify a Rare Coin

If you want to check whether you have a rare and valuable coin, here’s what to look for:

Check the date – Older coins, especially from the 18th and 19th centuries, tend to be more valuable.
Look for minting errors – Coins with double dies, off-center strikes, or unique flaws are often worth more.
Examine the condition – Coins in pristine, uncirculated condition are much more valuable than worn ones.
Authenticate the coin – Have the coin examined by experts like PCGS or NGC to verify its authenticity and grade.