When considering rare coins that have the potential to skyrocket in value over the next five years, it’s essential to focus on those with a combination of historical significance, limited supply, and growing demand. Here are three types of rare coins that could see substantial appreciation:
1. 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle ($20 Gold Coin)
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- Why It’s Rare: Only a few surviving specimens exist. The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is one of the most famous and rare U.S. coins because it was never officially released to the public due to the U.S.
- government’s decision to recall and melt down the gold coins during the Great Depression. Most were destroyed, but a few specimens were illegally retained, and they have become some of the most valuable coins in the world.
- Potential for Appreciation: In 2021, one such coin sold for over $18.9 million at auction, making it the most expensive U.S. coin ever sold. With so few in existence, any increase in interest from collectors, institutions, or international buyers could push prices even higher in the coming years.
2. 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar
- Why It’s Rare: This coin is one of the most iconic and sought-after coins in U.S. numismatic history. The 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar was originally struck in 1834, making it a “restrike” (coins made later than their date). Only 15 known specimens exist, and they have become legendary due to their rarity, historical significance, and high-quality craftsmanship.
- Potential for Appreciation: The 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar has consistently appreciated in value over the years, with auction prices ranging from $4 million to $7 million for high-quality examples.
- Its rarity and the high demand from serious collectors ensure that it will likely continue to see long-term growth in value. Its historical connection to the early days of the U.S. Mint only adds to its desirability.
3. 1955 Double Die Obverse Lincoln Cent
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- Why It’s Rare: This coin is famous for its dramatic double die error on the obverse, where the word “Liberty” and the date appear with noticeable doubling due to a misalignment during the minting process. Only a few hundred of these coins are believed to have been produced, making it incredibly rare, especially in high-grade condition.
- Potential for Appreciation: The 1955 Double Die Lincoln Cent is one of the most famous error coins in U.S. history, and demand for it has remained strong among collectors.
- In recent years, prices for uncirculated examples have steadily risen, and they can now fetch prices upwards of $20,000 to $50,000, depending on their condition. Given the ongoing interest in error coins and the limited supply, this coin has the potential to see substantial growth, especially as younger collectors continue to enter the market.
Also See: Top 3 Rare Quarters You’ve Been Holding Onto Without Knowing
| Coin | Why It’s Rare | Potential for Appreciation |
|---|---|---|
| 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle ($20 Gold Coin) | Only a few surviving specimens due to the U.S. government’s decision to recall and melt most of the coins during the Great Depression. A few were illegally retained. | Sold for $18.9 million in 2021; due to rarity and demand from high-net-worth collectors and institutions, it could continue to appreciate significantly. |
| 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar | Only 15 known specimens, making it one of the rarest and most iconic coins in U.S. numismatic history. Originally struck in 1834, these coins are “restrikes.” | Prices have ranged from $4 million to $7 million at auction, and due to ongoing demand from collectors, it’s expected to appreciate further. |
| 1955 Double Die Obverse Lincoln Cent | Famous for its dramatic double die error with noticeable doubling of the word “Liberty” and the date. Only a few hundred were produced. | Prices for high-quality examples have been rising, with uncirculated specimens fetching $20,000–$50,000. As demand for error coins grows, further price increases are likely. |
What makes these coins so valuable?
These coins are valuable due to their rarity, historical significance, and the fact that they are in limited supply. For example, the 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is scarce because most were destroyed, and only a few specimens were retained illegally.
The 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar is rare because only a few exist, and it’s linked to the early history of the U.S. Mint. Similarly, the 1955 Double Die Lincoln Cent is valuable due to its error—a mistake during the minting process that only a small number of coins exhibit.
Are rare coins a good investment for the long term?
Yes, rare coins can be a strong long-term investment, particularly if they are linked to important historical events or errors. Unlike stocks, rare coins are a tangible asset that is not directly affected by daily market fluctuations.
However, coin investing requires patience and knowledge, as prices may fluctuate in the short term, but over time, certain coins tend to appreciate due to their rarity and demand. Always keep in mind that investing in rare coins carries some risks, and diversification is key.