Coin collecting is a passion for many in the United States of America. Some coins are so rare and mysterious that collectors dream of owning them. These forbidden coins have fascinating histories and hidden truths that make them legendary. Let’s explore five of the most legendary forbidden coins collectors wish they could own.
1. 1933 Double Eagle – The Gold Coin That Became Illegal
The 1933 Double Eagle is one of the most famous forbidden coins.
- It was never officially circulated due to the Gold Reserve Act.
- Only a few escaped the melting process, making them extremely valuable.
- The U.S. government still considers most of them illegal to own.
- One sold at auction for over $18 million in 2021.
2. 1974 Aluminum Penny – The Coin That Never Was
The 1974 Aluminum Penny remains one of the most intriguing U.S. coins.
- It was a test coin created by the U.S. Mint.
- Only a few were made before the project was canceled.
- The government ordered all to be returned and destroyed.
- One surfaced in 2014 but was confiscated by the authorities.
3. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel – A Coin Shrouded in Mystery
This nickel is one of the rarest and most desired forbidden coins.
- Only five were ever produced under mysterious circumstances.
- It was not an official release by the U.S. Mint.
- One of them sold for $4.5 million in 2018.
- Ownership legality has been debated over the years.
4. 1804 Silver Dollar – The King of American Coins
The 1804 Silver Dollar is known as the “King of American Coins.”
- It was struck decades after its official date.
- Only 15 are known to exist today.
- The coin was originally intended as a diplomatic gift.
- Some versions are considered illegal to own by collectors.
5. 1959-D Lincoln Cent – The Coin That Shouldn’t Exist
The 1959-D Lincoln Cent has baffled experts for years.
- It features a reverse design from the previous era.
- The U.S. Mint never confirmed its legitimacy.
- Some believe it was struck in error or secretly produced.
- Its origins remain a mystery, adding to its forbidden status.
Hidden Truths Behind These Legendary Coins
Why Are These Coins Forbidden?
- Some were never meant for public circulation.
- Legal restrictions prevent ownership in certain cases.
- The government confiscates certain rare coins.
- Controversies and mysteries add to their legendary status.
How Do Collectors Try to Acquire Them?
- Private auctions offer rare opportunities.
- Some collectors seek underground deals.
- Legal battles sometimes arise over ownership.
- Museums and institutions hold most known specimens.
Are There More Forbidden Coins?
- Yes, other coins have similar mysterious histories.
- Some remain undiscovered or lost to history.
- The government continues to monitor their circulation.
FAQs
Why is the 1933 Double Eagle illegal to own?
The U.S. government banned its circulation and ordered all coins to be melted.
How much is a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel worth today?
One sold for $4.5 million in 2018, and values continue to rise.
What makes the 1804 Silver Dollar so special?
It was minted decades after its date and was never intended for circulation.
Are there any legal ways to own these forbidden coins?
Some coins can be owned through special permissions or legal auctions.
What happens if someone finds a forbidden coin?
The U.S. government may confiscate it or require proof of legal ownership.
