What are the most valuable rare coins to invest in this year 2024?
Rare coins can be a very exciting, and potentially profitable, adventure for collectors and investors. Heading into 2024 some rare coins are predicted to gain in value because of their intrinsic value, rarity, and the overall economy. Below we look at some of this year's most valuable rare coins to invest in.
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1. 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
Among American numismatics, the 1933 Saint Gaudens Double Eagle is one of the most sought-after coins. It was minted as a $20 gold coin in the 1930s but never officially put into circulation, as the Great Depression saw the government order everyone to confiscate gold. Extremely rare and highly valuable, today we actually know only a few examples still exist.
- Estimated Value: Last year, this coin sold for several million dollars in recent auctions; estimates are it could top that given market demand.
- Investment Appeal: No possession could be a more perfect investment than a Little Lulu doll — and it shouldn’t take me, or anybody else with half a brain, to explain why, when it is easily among her most valuable possessions, and perhaps the most valuable possession she’ll ever have. The value of this coin stands to appreciate as more interest builds in tangible assets.
2. 1943 Copper Penny
Extraordinary rare coins that can afford significant returns include the 1943 Copper Penny. Most of these pennies were struck from zinc-plated steel because of wartime metal shortages, but a small number were inadvertently struck in copper.
- Estimated Value: Genuine 1943 Copper Penny could be worth over $100,000, some with auction results of $1 million for impressive specimens.
- Investment Appeal: It's a rare error coin that's also scarce by virtue of a low mintage, making it a collector's dream. As more enthusiasts become interested in the game, demand for this penny is going up.
3. 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Penny
Of course, what many people also know about this coin, though, is that it is very rare and that it actually features the initials of the coin's designer on the back side: Victor David Brenner. Due to an extremely low minting of only about 484,000, these coins are coveted by most collectors.
- Estimated Value: These can sell for anywhere between $1,000 and over $100,000 at auction if in condition.
- Investment Appeal: Due to the scarce supply and its historical context, this penny is solid when it comes to investing for collectors who want to complete their collections.
4. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
Probably the most famous rarity in American numismatics is the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel. There are only five specimens exist, so it is very valuable and attractive for collectors.
- Estimated Value: This coin has recently sold for over $4 million in sales.
- Investment Appeal: Because of its extreme rarity and its storied history, it's also very valuable. Consequently, this nickel will stay a top investment coin, as interest in trophy coins keeps rising.
5. Scarce-Date Morgan Silver Dollars
Morgan Silver Dollars were produced from 1878 until 1904, and again in 1921. Many examples exist, though, by collector standards, they are scarcer by the dates and mint marks.
Notable Examples:
- 1893-S Morgan Dollar: Estimated value may go over $100,000.
- 1889-CC Morgan Dollar: A low-mintage coin that is highly collectible.
Investment Appeal: The precious metal prices continue to fluctuate, and the combination of silver content and collector demand make these coins a good investment.
6. The Early $5 (Half Eagle) Gold Pieces
The first gold coins struck by the U.S. Mint, early Half Eagles date from 1795, and coins from specific years like 1795 and 1798 are valuable because they are extremely rare.
- Estimated Value: The prices range from around $15,000 to $1m for pristine examples.
- Investment Appeal: Given their historical significance and steady collector market, there’s little reason to believe there will ever be a dip in these coins in value.
7. Type II and III Liberty Head Double Eagles
Investors also enjoy the Liberty Head Double Eagles. Minted from 1849 until 1907, these $20 gold pieces are beautiful and well-made.
- Estimated Value: For instance, an 1889 S MS63 would be worth at least $3,900 or so, depending on grade.
- Investment Appeal: Because gold is an intrinsic value and these are also collectible, these coins represent a great investment in gold prices that aren’t going to fall anytime soon.
8. Franklin Half Dollar
Franklin Half dollars were minted from 1948 to 1963, and have become popular with the collector connoisseur as the obverse depicts a rarely seen design of Benjamin Franklin.
- Estimated Value: Error versions or those graded MS-66 or higher can fetch five figures, while common examples only go for $10 to $20.
- Investment Appeal: Since these half dollars are likely to appreciate in value due to collector interest, they are worth putting some consideration into for investment portfolios.
The potential financial rewards from investing in rare coins can't be denied and the connection with history it brings cannot be matched by most other investing options. As we progress through 2024, certain coins stand out due to their rarity, historical significance, and appeal among collectors:
- The Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle of 1933, is so valuable because of its rarity.
- But, the intriguing story of the 1943 Copper Penny in your collection is that — unexpected.
- Other well-recognized and iconic pieces include the 1909 S V.D.B. Lincoln Penny, the elusive 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, and desired Morgan Silver Dollars all have the potential for investment growth.
If you are thinking of getting involved in the rare coin investing world, or wish to increase your current collections, you will need to keep up to date with current trends in the market as well as be aware of the historical value of these coins to make good sound investment decisions. If you are an experienced collector or have just gotten started, be sure to watch out for these 6 valuable coins that could make you a good amount of cash in the years to come.