Among rare coins, certain $5 gold coins, known as Half Eagles, have become some of the most valuable in American history. Minted in the 18th and 19th centuries, these coins have risen in value due to their rarity, historical significance, and high demand from collectors.
Each of these Half Eagles tells a story of American history, and a few have reached prices of over a million dollars at auction.
1822 Capped Bust Half Eagle
The 1822 Capped Bust Half Eagle is one of the rarest U.S. coins, with only three known to exist. Two of these coins are held by the Smithsonian, leaving just one available to collectors.
This extreme rarity has driven the value of the coin to over $8 million in past sales. The coin’s design, age, and exclusivity make it a legendary piece among numismatists.
1804 Draped Bust Half Eagle
The 1804 Draped Bust Half Eagle is another iconic and rare $5 coin. Known as one of the most sought-after coins, it was minted in limited quantities.
With only a few examples in existence, this coin has fetched impressive prices at auction, often reaching over a million dollars in high-grade conditions. Its historical appeal and rarity continue to make it a prized possession among collectors.
1795 Small Eagle Half Eagle
As one of the first $5 gold coins minted by the United States, the 1795 Small Eagle Half Eagle holds a special place in U.S. numismatic history. With its iconic small eagle on the reverse, this coin represents the early days of the U.S. Mint.
Collectors value the 1795 Half Eagle for its age, design, and historical significance, with high-grade examples fetching upwards of $1 million.
1854-S Liberty Head Half Eagle
The 1854-S Liberty Head Half Eagle is rare due to its limited mintage at the San Francisco Mint. Only a few of these coins are known to exist today, and their scarcity has made them highly valuable. In pristine condition, the 1854-S Half Eagle has sold for well over a million dollars, making it one of the most coveted $5 coins in existence.
1911-D Indian Head Half Eagle
Although not as rare as earlier coins, the 1911-D Indian Head Half Eagle is highly sought after by collectors due to its low mintage and unique design. The “D” mint mark signifies that it was minted in Denver, and coins in mint condition are valued highly, with some fetching hundreds of thousands at auction. The coin’s design, featuring a Native American profile, adds to its appeal.
| Coin Name | Year Issued | Mint Mark | Rarity Level | Value Range ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1822 Capped Bust Half Eagle | 1822 | None | Extremely Rare | Up to $8M+ |
| 1804 Draped Bust Half Eagle | 1804 | None | Very High | Up to $1M+ |
| 1795 Small Eagle Half Eagle | 1795 | None | High | Up to $1M+ |
| 1854-S Liberty Head Half Eagle | 1854 | S | Limited Mintage | Up to $2M+ |
| 1911-D Indian Head Half Eagle | 1911 | D | Moderate | Up to $500,000+ |
These rare and valuable $5 coins showcase the rich history of U.S. coinage and the appeal of collecting extraordinary pieces of American history. Their rarity and high auction values make them both an investment and a treasure for collectors worldwide.
