Top 10 Most Valuable Coins and Banknotes Worldwide

The idea of money is fascinating. While the physical materials—like paper or metal—used to produce currency are often worth far less than their printed value, certain factors can elevate their worth. Rarity, historical significance, or production flaws can transform ordinary cash into extraordinary treasures, sometimes fetching prices far beyond their face value. This is especially true for the world’s top 10 most expensive coins and banknotes.

10. 1891 US Red Seal $1,000 Bill ($2.5 Million)

A $1000 bill from 1891, featuring Major General George Gordon Meade, was auctioned for $2.5 million in April 2013. Its value stems from its scarcity, historical age, and the notable individuals who once owned it, cementing its status as one of the most expensive banknotes ever traded.

9. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel ($3.7 Million)

The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel was produced without authorization from the U.S. Mint, which had already transitioned the five-cent coin's design from Lady Liberty to a Native American profile. Only five of these nickels are known to exist, with the priciest one selling for $3.7 million. Experts suggest that if a mint-condition specimen were discovered, its value could skyrocket to $20 million.

8. 1804 Silver Dollar, Class I ($3.8 Million)

Contrary to its name, the 1804 Silver Dollar was actually minted three decades later. It was created as part of a diplomatic effort to produce coins for Asian rulers during trade missions. Auctioned by Heritage Auctions, this rare coin fetched $3.7 million in May 2008, highlighting its historical and numismatic significance.

7. 1804 Silver Dollar, Class I ($4.1 Million)

This silver dollar, part of a limited set of 15, was auctioned by Bowers and Marena for $4.1 million. Despite its original face value of just one dollar, its rarity and historical significance have driven its price to astonishing heights.

6. 2007 C$1 Million Coin ($4.1 Million)

Weighing 100kg, this coin is a rare marvel. Commissioned by the Royal Canadian Mint and crafted from nearly pure gold (99.99 percent), its $1 million face value soared to $4.1 million at auction, reflecting its unique craftsmanship and prestige.

5. 1343 Edward III Florin ($6.8 Million)

Imagine the coins you’ve lost over the years. Now multiply that by 670 years, and you’ll understand why the 1343 Edward III gold florin is so extraordinary. With only three known surviving examples, its rarity and historical importance make it one of the most valuable coins in existence.

4. 1787 Brasher Doubloon ($7.4 Million)

Ephraim Brasher, a skilled goldsmith, proposed creating copper coins to New York State in 1787. Despite the state’s rejection, Brasher proceeded to mint coins, primarily in bronze, with a few rare exceptions in 22-carat gold. One such gold doubloon was purchased by a Wall Street investment firm for $7.4 million, underscoring its historical and numismatic value.

3. 1907 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle ($7.6 Million)

Augustus Saint-Gaudens' intricate design for this coin posed significant challenges for the U.S. Mint, making mass production impractical. To simplify the process, Charles Barber, the Mint’s chief engraver, decided to omit the phrase “In God We Trust” from the coin. This decision sparked controversy in Congress, and though the coin was eventually produced, its limited run has made it an exceptionally rare and valuable piece.

2. 1933 Double Eagle ($7.6 Million)

The 1933 Double Eagle is a prime example of a coin whose value stems from historical peculiarities. Although minted, it was never officially released to the public. In 1933, Franklin D. Roosevelt prohibited private ownership of gold to address the U.S. banking crisis. However, twenty coins escaped destruction, and today, they are worth exponentially more than their original $20 denomination.

1. 1794/5 Flowing Hair Silver/Copper Dollar ($10 Million)

What makes a dollar coin worth $10 million? It’s the fact that this was the very first dollar coin issued by the U.S. Federal Government. Minted in 1794 and 1795, this coin, composed of 10 percent copper and 90 percent silver, features the iconic Liberty bust with flowing hair. Its historical significance far outweighs its face value, as demonstrated in January 2013 when one sold for $10 million.

BONUS: 1875 Hide & Leather National $10 Bill (???)

During its 18-year existence, the Hide & Leather National Bank in Chicago issued just over half a million dollars in currency. The scarcity of these bills, combined with the passage of time, makes them exceptionally rare. While auctioneers and collectors refrain from assigning a specific value, these notes are undoubtedly worth far more than their $10 face value, even when adjusted for inflation.