Coin collectors often find that the most valuable pieces come from certain historical eras. The 1910s, a time of significant events in global history, produced several coins that have since become highly sought after by numismatists. Whether due to limited mintage, design uniqueness, or historical importance, these coins are now worth much more than their original face value. Here are three coins from the 1910s that are worth a lot of money today.
1. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the most famous and valuable coins in American history. Although the Liberty Head design was officially discontinued in 1912, five 1913 Liberty Head Nickels were produced by mistake, making them incredibly rare. These coins are highly sought after due to their rarity, and their value has skyrocketed over the years. One of these nickels was sold for a record-breaking $4.5 million at auction in 2018.
While most 1913 Liberty Head Nickels are not for sale and are locked in private collections or museums, even those in lower grades can fetch hundreds of thousands of dollars. The combination of the design error and the coin’s limited mintage ensures that it remains one of the most coveted and expensive coins in the world.
2. 1916 Walking Liberty Half Dollar
The 1916 Walking Liberty Half Dollar is another highly valuable coin from the 1910s, primarily due to its stunning design and limited mintage. Designed by Adolph A. Weinman, the Walking Liberty Half Dollar features a beautiful representation of Lady Liberty walking toward the rising sun, with the phrase “In God We Trust” above her. This coin was minted in relatively small quantities, and as a result, high-quality specimens are rare and highly sought after by collectors.
One of the reasons this coin is especially valuable is its artistic design, which many numismatists consider one of the most beautiful in U.S. coinage history. Depending on its condition, a 1916 Walking Liberty Half Dollar can fetch anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Coins in uncirculated condition, particularly those without noticeable wear, can command prices upwards of $20,000, and higher for pieces with perfect grades.
3. 1917 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle Gold Coin
The 1917 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle Gold Coin is one of the most prized gold coins in the United States. Created by the renowned sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, the coin features a dramatic and iconic design, with Lady Liberty holding a torch and olive branch, symbolizing peace and power. The reverse side depicts a majestic eagle in flight, a design that many collectors view as one of the finest in U.S. coinage.
The 1917 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle is particularly valuable due to its gold content, rarity, and historical significance. While most 1917 double eagles are worth several thousand dollars in average condition, pristine examples have been known to sell for more than $100,000 at auction. The 1917 coin is highly coveted by investors and collectors alike, making it a staple in any serious collection of U.S. gold coins.
Conclusion
Coins from the 1910s, particularly those that feature unique designs or were produced in limited numbers, continue to be highly valuable today. The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, 1916 Walking Liberty Half Dollar, and 1917 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle Gold Coin are three of the most notable examples. If you happen to come across any of these coins in your collection or during your coin-hunting endeavors, they could be worth much more than their face value.
For collectors, these historic coins serve as a tangible connection to the past and a valuable asset in their numismatic portfolios.
For more information on valuable coins and tips for collectors, visit The American Numismatic Association.
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