Coin collecting is an art, a passion, and for many enthusiasts, a lifelong pursuit of uncovering rare treasures that transcend mere monetary value. In the realm of numismatics, certain coins stand out not just for their historical significance, but also for their scarcity and desirability among collectors. In this article, we delve into seven more rare gems that command prices of $1,200 or more, enticing collectors with their allure and mystique.
- 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar: The 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar is a coveted piece of American coinage history. It holds the distinction of being the first silver dollar minted by the United States Mint. With a mintage of just 1,758 coins, this early dollar features a design showcasing Liberty with flowing hair on the obverse and an eagle surrounded by a wreath on the reverse. Its rarity and historical significance make it highly sought after, often fetching prices well beyond $1,200 at auctions.
- 1916-D Mercury Dime: The 1916-D Mercury Dime is a key date in the Mercury Dime series. Minted in Denver, Colorado, it bears the iconic winged Liberty head on the obverse and a fasces symbol on the reverse. With a low mintage of only 264,000 pieces, this dime is highly sought after by collectors. Its scarcity, combined with its popularity among numismatists, makes it a prized possession, often commanding prices far exceeding $1,200 in top-notch condition.
- 1804 Draped Bust Quarter: The 1804 Draped Bust Quarter is a rarity among rarities. Despite bearing the date 1804, this quarter was actually minted much later, likely between 1834 and 1835. With only 6,738 coins believed to have been struck, this quarter is a numismatic marvel. Its elegant design featuring the bust of Liberty on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse adds to its appeal. Due to its extreme scarcity, examples in good condition can easily fetch prices surpassing $1,200 at auctions.
- 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar: The 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar is a legendary coin in the Morgan Dollar series. Minted in San Francisco, California, it is notable for its low mintage of just 100,000 pieces. This scarcity, coupled with its historical significance as one of the final years of production for the Morgan Dollar series, makes it highly desirable among collectors. Examples in pristine condition can command prices well above $1,200, making it a true gem for coin enthusiasts.
- 1921 Peace Silver Dollar: The 1921 Peace Silver Dollar holds a special place in the hearts of collectors. It represents the first year of issue for the Peace Dollar series, which was minted to commemorate the end of World War I. With a mintage of just over 1 million coins, the 1921 Peace Dollar is relatively scarce compared to later dates in the series. Its significance in marking a pivotal moment in history, combined with its rarity, contributes to its value of $1,200 or more in the marketplace.
- 1796 Draped Bust Quarter: The 1796 Draped Bust Quarter is a numismatic treasure from the early days of the United States Mint. With a mintage of only 6,146 coins, it is a scarce and highly sought-after piece among collectors. Its design featuring the bust of Liberty on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse captures the essence of early American coinage. Examples in good condition can fetch prices well above $1,200, making it a prized addition to any collection.
- 1913-S Buffalo Nickel Type 2: The 1913-S Buffalo Nickel Type 2 is a key date in the Buffalo Nickel series. Minted in San Francisco, California, it features the iconic Native American profile on the obverse and a buffalo on the reverse. With a mintage of just over 2 million coins, the 1913-S Type 2 is relatively scarce compared to other dates in the series. Its rarity, combined with its historical significance, makes it a desirable coin for collectors, often commanding prices exceeding $1,200.
In conclusion, these seven coins represent the pinnacle of rarity and desirability in the world of coin collecting. With their historical significance, scarcity, and allure, they capture the imagination of numismatists around the globe. Whether as investments or cherished pieces in a collection, these rare gems continue to fascinate and inspire collectors, reaffirming coin collecting as a timeless pursuit of discovery and appreciation for the artistry of minted metal.