Top 5 Most Expensive U.S. Coins Ever Sold at Auction
The most expensive U.S. coins ever sold at auction reflect both historical significance and scarcity. The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle holds the record, fetching an astonishing $18.9 million at Sotheby's in 2021.
This coin's rarity stems from its limited surviving examples after most were melted down following the abandonment of the gold standard.
The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar, one of the earliest U.S. coins, sold for $10 million in 2013, due to its historical value as the first silver dollar minted by the U.S. Mint.
The 1822 Capped Bust Half Eagle, with only three known surviving examples, commanded $8.4 million in 2021.
Another famous coin, the 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar, often referred to as the "King of Coins," went for $7.7 million in 2021. This coin, produced as part of a diplomatic gift set, is one of the rarest and most sought-after American coins.
The 1861 Paquet Double Eagle, with a distinctive design modification and only two known examples, brought in $7.2 million in 2021, rounding out the top five.
The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle stands as the most valuable U.S. coin ever auctioned, bringing in $18.9 million due to its rarity and controversial history, where most of its mintage was melted down.
Close behind, the 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar fetched $10 million for being the first silver dollar minted by the U.S. Mint. The 1822 Capped Bust Half Eagle, with only three surviving coins, sold for $8.4 million, marking its place as one of the rarest gold coins.