Collecting coins, known as “king leisure”, captivated kings and children as early as the 14th century. Whether for the value of the metal itself, their "mint" condition (or even with flaws - you might be surprised to discover the value of a piece in poor condition!), their commemorative or historical significance, or simply because this is a personal attachment, the prices for these shiny little things can really skyrocket! Take a look at the most expensive coins money can buy.
10. Dollar Bust 1804 Class I - €2,795,000 This "Queen of United States Coins", dated 1804, was actually minted 30 years later, in 1834. The coins were minted as diplomatic gifts for sovereigns, such as the King of Siam, the Sultan of Muscat and the Emperors of Japan and Cochinchina. Because there were no silver dollars with the date 1804, United States Mint created a few coins from 1804. Only fifteen precious specimens are currently known, and this is therefore a one of the rarest and most expensive coins in the world.
9. 5 Cents 1913 Liberty Head Nickel (Hawaii Five-O Specimen) - €3,175,000 The first 5 cent coin on the list, it is also (understandably) the most valuable relative to its face value initial. This piece played a part in the 1970s television series 'Hawaii State Police'. The coin was used for close-ups, although a simple nickel Liberty Head was used in the action scenes, as the risk was too great of damaging such a precious jewel.
8. 1 Dollar 1804 Dollar Bust Class I (Mickley-Hawn-Queller Specimen) - €3,294,000 Another "Queen of United States Coins" from our list, this particular specimen has a small D stamped in a cloud on the back of the coin. This indicates that the coin belonged to James V. Dexter, a wealthy coin collector, and owner of this coin during the 19th century.
7. Canada 1 Million dollar gold 2007 Maple Leaf - €3,415,000
The world's first million dollar coin was first produced by the Royal Canadian Mint in 2007. This coin was originally designed as a centerpiece to promote the Royal Canadian Mint's new line of Troy pure gold coins 99.999% with maple leaf. This particular coin was sold at public auction for $4.02 million (about €3,145,000) in Vienna.
6. 1 Dollar 1804 Dollar buste Classe I (Spécimen Watters-Childs) 3 517 000 €
This coin is the best known example of the 1804 Silver Dollar. This coin became the highest value currency in the world in August 1999. This coin was originally held by the Sultan of Muscat in 1835. In 2016 this coin was auctioned again. A bid of $10,575,000 (about €9,488,500) was placed for the 1804 Dollar. not been reached.
5. Doublon Brasher 1787 EB on Wing (Spécimen Newlin-Davis) - 3 893 000 € …