Coins have always been regarded as pocket change, from hand to hand, with little consideration. But hidden among the millions of circulating coins are a number of rare treasures that can make you a multi-millionaire — a billionaire. Yes, there are coins worth a million dollars, and the combined value of these six coins is over $1 billion.
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Let’s have a close look at the six coins that may be lying unsuspectingly in a coin jar, change drawer, or your wallet today. We will discuss how to recognize them, why they are so valuable, and where to go if you believe that you have one.
1. 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar – Over $10 Million

The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar is the first silver dollar of the United States Mint. It’s rare, historic, and one of the most expensive coins ever sold, selling for $10 million at auction.
Features to Look For:
- Flowing hair of Liberty on the obverse
- 1794 year
- 15 stars (for the 15 states then)
They’re extremely rare in mint state, and collectors value these coins for their historicity.
2. 1933 Double Eagle – Worth Around $18 Million
The 1933 Double Eagle ($20 gold coin) never actually made it into official circulation because the United States left the gold standard. But a handful of them did survive, and one sold for $18.9 million in 2021.
How to Tell:
- A Liberty figure moving forward on the obverse
- An eagle flying above the sun on the reverse
- The “1933” date
Note: Possession of one would be a legal problem unless it’s a government-sanctioned specimen.
3. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel – Worth Up to $5 Million
Fewer than five are known to be in existence 1913 Liberty Head Nickels. They were unofficial coins and are among the most rare coins in America’s history. They’ve auctioned for as much as $5 million.
Identifying Features:
- The year “1913” with Liberty’s profile
- Roman numeral “V” on the back
- No “cents” engraved (a detail that caused prior confusion)
4. 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny – Up to $1.7 Million
Penny coins were supposed to be produced out of steel in 1943 as a means to save copper for the war effort. A few were stamped by mistake on copper planchets, and therefore they are extremely scarce.
How to Find It:
- Date: 1943
- Use a magnet: Steel attracts magnets, copper does not
- A 1943 penny that will not stick to a magnet is worth as much as $1.7 million
5. 2007 $1 Million Canadian Gold Maple Leaf – Value Over $4 Million
The coin is made of 100 kg of 99.999% gold, and even though it was made more as a novelty, it sold for more than $4 million because it’s so rare and gold.
Features:
- Maple leaf design
- Weight: 100 kilograms
- Face value of $1 million CAD
6. 1787 Brasher Doubloon – Over $9 Million

Struck by goldsmith Ephraim Brasher prior to the establishment of the U.S. Mint, the coin is extremely rare due to its quality and history. A lone Brasher Doubloon was sold for $9.36 million in 2021.
What to Look For:
- “EB” marked on the wing or breast of the eagle
- 1787 date
- Fine, hand-stamped workmanship
Summary Table: Uncommon Coins & Their Worth
Coin Name | Year | Approximate Value |
---|---|---|
1794 Flowing Hair Dollar | 1794 | $10 million+ |
1933 Double Eagle | 1933 | $18 million+ |
1913 Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | $5 million |
1943 Copper Lincoln Penny | 1943 | $1.7 million |
2007 Gold Maple Leaf | 2007 | $4 million+ |
1787 Brasher Doubloon | 1787 | $9.3 million |
Estimated Total Worth: $48 million+ — and that only takes into consideration that one example of each of these coins was sold once. Some of these varieties have sold more than one time, so the total value of these coins is more than $1 billion.
What to Know Whether You Have an Expensive Coin
These are some quick tips that will assist you in identifying valuable coins:
- Look at the Date – Holiday or commemorative years.
- Inspect the Material – Unusual color or metal may signal errors.
- Examine for Mint Errors – Double-die strikes, off-center coins, or misprints are worth more.
- Utilize a Coin App – PCGS Coin Facts or NGC Coin Collector apps might assist.
- Get a Professional Grading – Go to a local coin dealer or have your coin graded by a firm.
Coin Collecting Advice for Beginners
- Begin with pocket change – Most valuable coins are still in circulation.
- Store coins in cases – To keep from being damaged lowering value.
- Learn the fundamentals – Study mint marks, coin grades, and error types.
- Get with other collectors – Attend coin shows, forums, or local clubs.
Final Thoughts
Coins are more than spare change. Some are historical artifacts, rare errors, or once-in-a-lifetime finds that could be worth millions — or even billions. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious, check your coins closely. That seemingly ordinary penny, nickel, or dollar could be one of the 6 rarest coins in the world.
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You might already be holding a treasure.
FAQ’s
Q. Are there rare coins still in circulation?
A. Yes! Some of these coins were put into circulation by mistake. Although rare, you always have a possibility to find one in a jar, estate sale, or among a roll of coins.
Q. Where can I sell an heirloom coin?
A. Best options are:
Heritage Auctions
eBay (for lower-valued coins)
PCGS or NGC-graded dealers
Q. How do I get a coin graded?
A. You can submit your coin to reputable grading companies such as:
PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service)
NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation)
They will grade and authenticate on condition basis.
Q. Are rare coins like the 1933 Double Eagle legal to possess?
A. There are some 1933 Double Eagles that are individually legal to hold. Consult with a coin attorney or the U.S. Mint at all times.