Coin collecting is a more than $100 billion a year industry worldwide and $10 billion in the United States alone. It’s patriotic, a way to store wealth and help grandparents connect with their grandchildren.
If you are into numismatics, here are five old coins that will bring in the most returns for your time and money:
1794 flowing hair silver dollar
It is believed to be one of the first – if not the first – silver dollar minted by the newborn United States.
Dubbed the “Flowing Hair” dollar coin, features an odd mix of artistic skill and amateur coining practice.
In 2013, it sold for $10 million in an auction – surpassing the world record for the most ever paid for a rare coin.
Only 130 -140 coins are still in existence, so if you have one in poor condition, don’t throw it away – it is still worth at least $47148.
The 1787 Brasher Doubloon
The 1787 Brasher Doubloon was the first gold coin struck in America, and even though it is not a legal tender, it is one of the most loved pieces by the U.S. numismatics.
A 1787 Brasher doubloon sold for $9.36 million at Heritage Auctions in Dallas setting record as the second most expensive U.S. coin to sell at auction.
With only seven coins in existence, it gives you the best way to hold value and avoid the depreciation of money.
1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Cent
Collectors love old coins with a story, this one has a couple and Lincoln cent enthusiasts consider it the holy grail of numismatics.
In 1909, the United States changed the design of the one-cent coin from the Indian Head to a design that commemorates the 100th anniversary of President Abraham Lincoln’s birth.
The coin designer Victor David Brenner (VDB) placed his initials on the base of the reverse, which caused a public outcry.
It was considered free and entirely illegal advertising, so the U.S. Mint solved the problem by removing the initials.
As a regular-issued legal tender with the lowest mintage – without a doubt – this is one of the most sought-after old coins.
In 2019, Heritage Auctions sold a 1909-S VDB cent with a mint condition of MS67 for $50,400. And with only 5,000 survivors, the price is bound to go up!
The 1787 Fugio Cent
Fugio cent, also known as Franklin cent, after founding father Benjamin Franklin was the coin used when 13 States merged.
Fugio is Latin for “I Fly,” so the hour sundial and sun represent time. Franklin was telling people to take care of their business as time flies by.
The coin goes for a few thousand dollars and at times up to $10,000 making it a good investment.
The 1943 Lincoln Head Copper Penny
In 1943, the U.S. Mint made pennies using zinc and steel, but an error occurred, and they struck some with copper.
Copper was being saved for World War II, which was used for wiring electronics and airplanes. When it came time to strike in 1943 penny, mints transitioned to steel blanks, but some copper blanks may have been left in coin stamping machinery from the previous run.
Some coins were struck in copper as an error, which made coins scarce. Only around 15 Lincoln head copper penny exist, making them one of the most valuable pennies.
Conclusion
Some people fake rare old coins, so before investing, ensure they are authenticated by a professional or deal with a trusted dealer. If you would like to invest in coins or sell yours visit Doylestown Gold Exchange today.
