Gold coins have long been symbols of wealth and prestige. For collectors and investors, certain rare gold coins have transcended their intrinsic metal value, fetching astronomical prices at auctions.
Here are seven gold coins that have each sold for over $1 million, making them treasures worth seeking.
1. 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
The 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is perhaps the most famous U.S. gold coin. Although 445,500 were minted, none were officially circulated due to the Gold Reserve Act.
Most were melted down, but a few escaped. In 2002, one sold for $7.59 million, and in 2021, another fetched a staggering $18.9 million, setting a record for the most expensive coin ever sold.
2. 1787 Brasher Doubloon
Crafted by goldsmith Ephraim Brasher, the 1787 Brasher Doubloon is a rare American gold coin. In January 2021, a specimen sold at auction for $9.36 million, marking a world record for a gold coin sold in a public auction.
3. 1907 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle (Ultra High Relief)
Designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens, the 1907 Double Eagle in Ultra High Relief is a masterpiece of numismatic art. A specimen graded PR-68 CAC sold in a private sale in December 2021 for $4.75 million.
4. 2007 $1 Million Canadian Gold Maple Leaf
The Royal Canadian Mint produced the $1 Million Gold Maple Leaf in 2007, boasting 99.999% purity and weighing 100 kilograms. It was the first million-dollar face value coin. In June 2010, it sold for $4.02 million at Dorotheum Auction House in Vienna.
5. 1898 Single 9 Pond
The 1898 Single 9 Pond is a rare South African gold coin. In May 2010, it sold for $4 million (20 million ZAR) in a private transaction.
6. 1825/4/1 Capped Head Left Half Eagle
This U.S. Mint gold coin is notable for its rarity and unique overdate. In 2023, it sold for $4.5 million, significantly higher than its previous sale price two years earlier.
7. 1870-CC Double Eagle
Minted in Carson City, Nevada, the 1870-CC Double Eagle is a prized coin among collectors. In November 2024, a specimen sold for $1.44 million at a Stack’s Bowers auction.
| Coin | Year | Sale Price | Date of Sale |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle | 1933 | $18.9 million | June 2021 |
| 1787 Brasher Doubloon | 1787 | $9.36 million | January 2021 |
| 1907 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle (UHR) | 1907 | $4.75 million | December 2021 |
| 2007 $1 Million Canadian Gold Maple Leaf | 2007 | $4.02 million | June 2010 |
| 1898 Single 9 Pond | 1898 | $4 million | May 2010 |
| 1825/4/1 Capped Head Left Half Eagle | 1825 | $4.5 million | 2023 |
| 1870-CC Double Eagle | 1870 | $1.44 million | November 2024 |
The allure of rare gold coins continues to captivate collectors and investors alike. With individual coins fetching millions at auctions, it’s worth examining your collection or safe deposit box. Who knows? You might be in possession of a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered.
FAQs
Why are these gold coins so valuable?
Their value stems from a combination of rarity, historical significance, condition, and collector demand.
How can I determine the value of my gold coin?
Consulting a professional numismatist or reputable coin grading service can provide an accurate assessment.
Where can I sell a rare gold coin?
Reputable auction houses, coin dealers, and online platforms specializing in numismatics are ideal venues.
