At the 2024 ANA World’s Fair of Money, GreatCollections will be showcasing some of the rarest and most valuable coins and banknotes in the world. Among the items on display is the 1794 silver dollar, often called America’s first silver dollar, which is officially the world’s second most valuable coin. This coin, along with other significant rarities like the 1861 gold $20 double eagle and a collection of Red Seal National Banknotes, will be part of an impressive $30 million exhibit. These items are not only valuable but also have deep historical significance, offering collectors and enthusiasts a unique opportunity to view them in person.
| Item | Description | Value | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1794 Silver Dollar | America’s first silver dollar, acquired for a record $12 million. | $12 Million | First coin minted by the U.S. government, rare and historically significant. |
| 1861 Gold $20 Double Eagle with Paquet Reverse | One of only two known examples, considered the finest. | Over $8.5 Million | Extremely rare coin with unique reverse design. |
| 1869 Proof Gold Double Eagle | The finest example of only a dozen known to exist. | Not Listed | A rare and highly coveted coin showcasing U.S. minting excellence. |
| Coronado Collection of Red Seal #1 National Banknotes | A collection of 73 notes from 48 states, the most extensive of its kind. | Not Listed | The largest collection of Red Seal National Banknotes ever formed. |
| Total Value of Display | Combined value of the display, including all rare coins and notes. | $30 Million | Includes some of the world’s most valuable numismatic treasures. |
GreatCollections and Its Rare Display
GreatCollections is known for handling some of the world’s most valuable coins and paper money, and its upcoming display at the 2024 ANA World’s Fair of Money promises to be a showstopper. The highlight of the collection is the 1794 silver dollar, a coin that made history when it was acquired for a record $12 million in 2022. This is the first coin to ever break the $10 million mark when it was sold at auction in 2013. The coin’s historical importance and rarity make it one of the most sought-after pieces in numismatics.
The 1794 Silver Dollar
The 1794 silver dollar is often called the “King of Coins” because of its place in American history as the first official silver dollar ever minted by the United States. Only a handful of these coins were made, and today, fewer than 20 are known to exist. The 1794 dollar represents a critical moment in U.S. history, marking the beginning of the nation’s coinage system. Its extreme rarity and historical significance make it incredibly valuable. When GreatCollections acquired the coin from Bruce Morelan, a Las Vegas collector, for $12 million, it set a new record, cementing the coin’s place as a true treasure of American numismatic history.
Other Rarities on Display
In addition to the 1794 silver dollar, GreatCollections will also display other incredibly rare and valuable items:
- 1861 gold $20 double eagle with Paquet Reverse: Only two known examples of this rare coin exist, and the one on display is considered the finest. Valued at over $8.5 million, this coin is a key piece for any serious collector.
- 1869 Proof gold double eagle: This coin is the finest of the dozen known and is a masterpiece of American coinage, showcasing the excellence of U.S. minting during that time.
These coins represent the pinnacle of American coinage and are among the most valuable treasures in the world. Their rarity, quality, and historical importance make them highly coveted by collectors and museums alike.
The Coronado Collection of Red Seal #1 National Banknotes
For fans of paper money, the Coronado Collection of Red Seal #1 National Banknotes will be a treat. This collection includes 73 notes from 48 different states, making it the most extensive Red Seal collection ever formed. These National Banknotes are considered one of the most important series of banknotes in American history. The notes will be auctioned by GreatCollections from late August through January 2025, offering collectors the chance to own a piece of U.S. monetary history.
The Impact of GreatCollections’ Display
According to Ian Russell, president of GreatCollections, the owners of the 1794 silver dollar and the 1861 Paquet double eagle have generously allowed their rare coins to be displayed to the public. This is part of an ongoing effort to share these museum-quality items with as many collectors as possible. Over the past few years, GreatCollections has displayed over $200 million worth of major rarities at conventions, giving collectors a rare chance to see some of the world’s most valuable items up close.
The Significance of These Coins and Banknotes
The coins and banknotes displayed by GreatCollections are not just valuable because of their rarity. They also serve as physical representations of U.S. history. Coins like the 1794 silver dollar and 1861 Paquet double eagle offer a glimpse into the early years of the United States, while the Red Seal National Banknotes reflect the nation’s economic development in the late 19th century. These items tell stories of how the U.S. developed its monetary system and how it faced challenges in a growing economy.
Conclusion
The 2024 ANA World’s Fair of Money will be a memorable event for collectors and history enthusiasts. With GreatCollections showcasing some of the most valuable and historically significant coins and banknotes in existence, it offers a unique opportunity to experience these treasures in person. The 1794 silver dollar, 1861 Paquet double eagle, and Coronado Collection will be the stars of the show, giving collectors the chance to admire and bid on some of the finest pieces in numismatic history.
FAQs
1. What is the 1794 Silver Dollar, and why is it so valuable?
The 1794 Silver Dollar is the first official silver dollar minted by the United States. Its extreme rarity and historical significance make it one of the most valuable coins in the world. Only a few of these coins exist, and they represent the birth of the U.S. coinage system. It was recently sold for a record $12 million.
2. Why is the 1861 Gold $20 Double Eagle with Paquet Reverse so rare?
The 1861 Gold $20 Double Eagle with Paquet Reverse is one of only two known examples. It’s highly prized due to its unique reverse design created by engraver Anthony Paquet, which was only used briefly before being changed. Its rarity and historical importance make it worth over $8.5 million.
3. What is the Coronado Collection, and why is it significant?
The Coronado Collection is a group of 73 Red Seal #1 National Banknotes from 48 different states, making it the most extensive collection of these rare banknotes ever formed. These banknotes are part of the U.S. Treasury’s history and are considered highly collectible due to their rarity and historical importance.
4. When and where can I see these rare coins and banknotes?
These rare coins and banknotes will be displayed at the 2024 ANA World’s Fair of Money, an event that will take place later in the year. The fair is an important gathering for coin collectors, dealers, and enthusiasts. The coins and notes will also be auctioned later, with some available for viewing and bidding from late August through January 2025.
5. What is the value of the entire collection on display at the ANA World’s Fair of Money?
The total value of the $30 million display includes the 1794 Silver Dollar, the 1861 Paquet Double Eagle, the 1869 Proof Gold Double Eagle, and the Coronado Collection of Red Seal National Banknotes. The entire collection showcases some of the rarest and most valuable items in numismatics.