Coins are more than just currency; they hold stories, secrets, and sometimes even scandals. Throughout history, some coins have caused controversy, sparked legal battles, and left collectors in awe.
These rare and mysterious coins remain highly sought after, with some fetching millions at auctions. Let’s look into six of the most controversial coins in U.S. history.
1933 Double Eagle Gold Coin
One of the most famous and valuable coins in the world, the 1933 Double Eagle, was never supposed to be in private hands. In 1933, the U.S. government banned gold coins for circulation and ordered all Double Eagles to be melted down. However, a few managed to escape.
The U.S. government considers these coins illegal to own.
In 2002, one sold at auction for $7.6 million.
In 2021, another piece set a record by selling for $18.9 million.
1974 Aluminum Penny
During the early 1970s, the U.S. Mint experimented with aluminum pennies to combat rising copper costs. The plan was eventually scrapped, and all aluminum pennies were supposed to be returned. However, a few pieces went missing.
Only a few aluminum pennies exist outside government hands.
Owning one is considered illegal.
If sold, it could fetch millions due to its rarity.
1913 Liberty Head Nickel
This mysterious nickel is one of the rarest and most valuable U.S. coins. The Liberty Head design was never supposed to be minted in 1913, yet five coins surfaced under suspicious circumstances.
Only five are known to exist.
One sold for $4.5 million at auction.
No official records confirm how these coins were produced.
2000 Sacagawea Cheerios Dollar
In a promotional campaign, the U.S. Mint placed special Sacagawea dollars inside Cheerios cereal boxes. However, some of these coins were struck with a different eagle feather design, making them unique.
These Cheerios dollars have distinct feather details.
They are worth thousands of dollars to collectors.
The exact number of these special coins is unknown.
1959-D Wheat Penny Error Coin
The 1959-D Wheat Penny is a mystery because it features the wheat penny design, which was officially discontinued in 1958. Experts debate whether it was an accident, a fraud, or an unauthorized minting.
Only one has ever been found.
Some believe it was a deliberate mistake.
Its origins remain unknown, making it a true numismatic mystery.
1964-D Peace Dollar
The Peace Dollar was set to return in 1964, and the Denver Mint even struck coins. However, before they could be released, the government ordered all of them to be melted down. Despite this, rumors persist that some survived.
No officially recognized 1964-D Peace Dollars exist today.
Some collectors believe a few escaped the melting process.
If one were ever found, it would be priceless.
Coins are not merely tasks for a dented piece of metal; they are bits of history and mystery and of enormous value. These coins continue being the subject of great curiosity among collectors, with some still in search of the hidden or lost pieces. Either confined and buried deep inside private collections or as yet undiscovered, their stories linger on.
FAQs
1. What makes a coin controversial?
A coin can become controversial due to design errors, political symbolism, limited circulation, minting scandals, or unexpected high value in the collector’s market.
2. What are some examples of controversial coins?
Examples include the 1933 Double Eagle, the 1974 Aluminum Penny, the 2000 Sacagawea Dollar with a Mule Error, and the 1959-D Lincoln Cent with a wheat reverse.
3. Why was the 1933 Double Eagle considered illegal?
The U.S. government ordered all 1933 Double Eagles to be melted down, but a few escaped. The Secret Service considers them stolen, leading to legal battles over ownership.
4. What is the story behind the 1974 Aluminum Penny?
The U.S. Mint experimented with aluminum pennies to reduce costs, but they were never released. Some escaped into circulation, leading to controversy and legal issues.
5. How do coin errors contribute to their controversy?
Minting errors, such as double dies, off-center strikes, or incorrect metal compositions, can create valuable and disputed coins that attract collectors and legal debates.