These coins, often shrouded in mystery and historical intrigue, fetch astronomical prices at auctions due to their rarity, historical significance, and the fascinating stories behind them.
The U.S. Mint produced these coins, but they were recalled and melted down after President Franklin D. Roosevelt took the United States off the gold standard to prevent hoarding during the Great Depression.
The Flowing Hair Silver Dollar, minted in 1794, was the first dollar coin issued by the U.S. federal government. Its creation marked the beginning of the United States' venture into producing its own coinage, a significant step in the young nation's independence.
The U.S. Mint officially stopped producing Liberty Head nickels in 1912, switching to the Buffalo Nickel in 1913. However, five Liberty Head nickels dated 1913 mysteriously appeared, leading to speculation that they were struck in secret, possibly by a Mint employee.
One of the five coins sold for over $4.5 million in 2018. The tale of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is a testament to the intrigue and mystery that often accompanies the world's most valuable coins, captivating collectors and historians alike.