While many numismatists may get into the hobby for passion or to embrace a challenge, coins also carry monetary value that sometimes greatly exceeds their face value. Age, rarity, condition, completeness, and historical significance all factor into the market value of coin collections. While some avid collectors may amass coins worth a few thousand dollars, some global collections are worth millions. Discover the top five most valuable coin collections, including the largest coin collection, in our list below.
1. The Smithsonian Institution’s National Numismatic Collection (USA)
The National Numismatic Collection is housed at The Smithsonian in Washington, D.C. After starting with only a few thousand artifacts, the National Numismatic Collection has grown to be the largest coin collection in the world, containing nearly 1.6 million pieces. While The Smithsonian boasts one of the most extensive American coin collections, it also contains pieces from several countries and cultures.
Of course, this didn’t become the largest coin collection without acquiring a few notable and highly valuable individual coins. The Smithsonian contains the first 1849 double eagle ($20 gold coin). While the museum has owned this coin for years, speculators believe this coin alone could be worth several million dollars. The 1804 Silver Dollar (actually minted in 1834) is another notable addition, minted at the request of President Andrew Jackson to serve as diplomatic gifts to various world leaders.
2. The Eliasberg Collection (USA)
The Eliasberg Collection lands as one of the most valuable coin collections due to its heritage and completeness. Started by Louis Eliasberg in 1925, this financier set out to collect all regular-issue coins in the United States. The Eliasberg collection is still the only complete set of U.S. coins by denomination, date, and mint.
Notable coins from this collection include the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, the 1891 Silver Dollar Morgan Liberty Head, and the 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar (sold for over $7 million in its latest auction).
3. The Tyrant Collection (USA)
The Tyrant Collection is widely regarded as the largest coin collection held in private hands. California native Dan O’Dowd owns the Tyrant Collection, but portions are often loaned for display to the public. This collection is known for its mix of valuable American coins, historic English coins, and more. Even just a portion of O’Dowd’s collection has been insured for multi-millions, making this one of the most valuable coin collections in the world.
The Tyrant Collection includes The Gold Starter as struck by Pharaoh Nectanebo II as early as 361 BC, the King of Siam Proof Set, and more.
4. The King Farouk Collection (Egypt)
Breaking away from the United States, King Farouk of Egypt accumulated one of the most notable coin collections by the time he was ousted from power in 1952. Though his collection has been broken up since his passing through auctions, theft, and misplacement, his collection once comprised roughly 8,500 gold coins.
Breaking away from the United States, King Farouk of Egypt accumulated one of the most notable coin collections by the time he was ousted from power in 1952. Though his collection has been broken up since his passing through auctions, theft, and misplacement, his collection once comprised roughly 8,500 gold coins.
5. The American Numismatic Association Collection (USA)
While there are several famous coin collections to highlight, a list of the most valuable coin collections would not be complete without the American Numismatic Association (ANA) collection. Housed in Colorado Springs, this museum includes three galleries that visitors from all over the country can come and view. The Edward C. Rochette Money Museum is not only staffed with coin experts and over 250,000 objects to explore but also offers virtual exhibits.
The Money Museum most notably includes the 1933 eagle ($10 eagle), brought out for display from the ANA vaults.
There’s Always More to Explore
Coin collecting can be as casual or as serious as any numismatist wants it to be. The coin collections above represent both the largest coin collection in the world as well as the most valuable collections. If you want more, however, explore the most sought-after silver proof sets on our blog or continue expanding your personal collection with a trusted partner like ModernCoinMart.
