The 1787 Brasher Doubloon is an ancient and precious coin in American numismatics. It is of particular significance not just due to its scarcity but also due to its historical value. At the recent auction of this coin, its price touched $9.36 million (approximately Rs 77 crore), which makes it the most costly American gold coin to date.
Brasher Doubloon: Historical Background
The Brasher Doubloon was struck by well-known goldsmith and metal expert Ephraim Brasher in 1787. It is one of the first gold coins struck in America. The most distinctive aspect of this coin is that it is stamped with “EB”, which was Brasher’s official mark. This attests to the authenticity of the coin.
The year 1787 was a turning point for the US. This was the period when the US was attempting to stabilize its money system. The coin was privately minted by Brasher, since there was no government system of minting gold coins then. The coin is a remnant of the economy of early America and is a significant piece of the American Revolution’s financial history.
Brasher Doubloon Auction and Price
A rare example of the Brasher Doubloon was auctioned for $9.36 million in January 2021. The coin was graded MS-65, which means it was kept in mint condition. It is the most valuable US gold coin ever sold at auction. Its rarity and historical value have made it an invaluable treasure for collectors.
Other Rare Historical Coins and Their Prices
Besides the Brasher Doubloon, numerous other historical medals and coins also occupy significant positions in US currency history. Some of those significant coins are as follows:
1. 1652 NE Threepence
The coin was produced in Boston during colonial times. It bore the inscription “NE,” which means New England. The rare coin, found in Amsterdam in 2016, was sold for $2.52 million.
2. 1776 Continental Dollar
This coin was used as money issued by the Continental Congress during the American Revolution. The predicted auction value of this coin discovered in Britain in 2023 was $39,000. This coin is viewed as an emblem of America’s revolutionary monetary system.
3. 1783 Libertas Americana Medal
This popular medal was engraved by Benjamin Franklin and was produced to celebrate France’s alliance with America’s freedom. A specimen that had never been circulated went for $10,800 in November 2024.
4. 1787 Fugio Cent
This first official US coin is a Fugio Cent, on which are written the words “Fugio” (“I ran away”) and a symbol of the sundial. One high-grade reproduction went for $1,000 in 2018.
5. 1792 Birch Cent
This 1792 coin was the prototype for the first official US cent. It was created by Robert Birch. A specimen of this rare coin sold for $2.58 million, demonstrating its monetary and historical significance.
6. 1783 Washington Before Boston Medal
This medal depicts General George Washington during the Siege of Boston. In 2019, this medal, which was in a fine state of preservation, sold for $5,000.
7. 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar
This was the first official American silver dollar, struck by the U.S. Mint. One SP-66 graded copy was bought in a private sale for $12 million, marking a turning point in the history of the US monetary system.
Table of Rare Coin Prices
| Coin | Year | Auction Price |
|---|---|---|
| Brasher Doubloon | 1787 | $9.36 million |
| NE Threepence | 1652 | $2.52 million |
| Continental Dollar | 1776 | $39,000 |
| Libertas Americana Medallion | 1783 | $10,800 |
| Fugio Cent | 1787 | $1,000 |
| Birch Cent | 1792 | $2.58 million |
| Washington Before Boston Medallion | 1783 | $5,000 |
| Flowing Hair Dollar | 1794 | $12 million |
Conclusion
These historic medals and coins are not just worth money, but they also make history come alive for us. The Brasher Doubloon and other special coins teach us about the economic system at the time, political climate, and the effect of the American Revolution. Not only is collecting these coins a hobby, but it is also preserving history in a living way.
These coins are unique for someone who is keen on history as well as the money system. They are not just a method of linking the past, but could be more valuable in the future.
FAQs
Q1. What is the most expensive rare coin ever sold?
The 1794 Flowing Hair Dollar holds the record, selling for $12 million in a private sale.
Q2. Why is the 1787 Brasher Doubloon so valuable?
It is one of the earliest gold coins minted in the U.S. and was privately struck by goldsmith Ephraim Brasher, making it extremely rare.
Q3. Where can I buy or sell rare coins?
Rare coins can be bought or sold at major auction houses like Heritage Auctions, Stack’s Bowers, and Sotheby’s, or through reputable numismatic dealers.
Q4. How can I check if my old coin is valuable?
You can check its value by consulting a professional coin grading service like PCGS or NGC or by researching recent auction prices for similar coins.
Q5. What factors determine a coin’s value?
A coin’s value depends on rarity, historical significance, condition (grading), demand, and metal content.