The world of rare coins is filled with remarkable stories, where some pieces can fetch extraordinary amounts at auction. Among the most coveted is the 1792 Half Disme, which can sell for over $800,000 for certain examples. Along with this historic coin, a variety of other rare pieces have collectively earned more than $47 million in auction sales. In this article, we explore these numismatic treasures, highlighting their unique characteristics, historical significance, and the factors that contribute to their immense value.
The 1792 Half Disme: The Beginning of U.S. Coinage
Historical Significance
The 1792 Half Disme is a cornerstone of American numismatic history, as one of the first coins ever minted by the U.S. government. Created under the Coinage Act of 1792, these early coins were produced in a temporary mint in Philadelphia, located in the basement of a sawmaker’s shop. It’s believed that President George Washington provided silverware to help create these coins, adding to their historic appeal.
Design and Specifications
- Obverse: Features a left-facing image of Lady Liberty, symbolizing freedom and democracy.
- Reverse: Displays a small eagle, representing the young United States.
- Composition: Made from approximately 89% silver and 11% copper.
- Weight: 1.35 grams
- Diameter: 16.5 mm
- Edge: Reeded
Auction Results
Due to its historical importance and rarity, the 1792 Half Disme has commanded impressive prices at auction. For instance, one coin graded AU55 by NGC sold for $824,850, while another example graded AU50 fetched $998,750. These prices reflect the coin’s high demand among collectors and investors alike.
Other Rare Coins Exceeding $47 Million in Auction Sales
In addition to the 1792 Half Disme, several other early American coins have earned significant sums at auction. Together, these rare pieces have sold for over $47 million. Some notable examples include:
- 1792 Birch Cent (Judd-4): One of the earliest U.S. cent patterns, it sold for $2.585 million when graded MS65★ Red and Brown by NGC.
- 1792 Silver Center Cent (Judd-1): A prototype coin with a silver plug at the center, symbolizing a proposed bimetallic standard. A high-grade example of this coin sold for $1.15 million.
- 1792 Disme (Judd-10): Another early pattern coin that sold for $998,750 at auction for a specimen graded AU50 by NGC.
- 1861 Confederate Half Dollar: With only four known specimens, this coin fetched $881,250 and is linked to Confederate President Jefferson Davis.
- 1792 Quarter Dollar (Judd-13): One of just four surviving coins, a specimen graded AU58 brought in $1.26 million at auction.
- 1776 Continental Dollar: Known for its historical importance, high-grade examples of this coin also sell for significant sums.
Total Auction Earnings
The combined auction sales for these six legendary coins exceed $47 million. A standout event was the Partrick Collection auction, which featured several of these coins and brought in nearly $26 million in its first part alone.
What Drives the Value of Rare Coins?
Several factors contribute to the extraordinary prices these coins command:
- Rarity: Coins with a limited mintage or unique historical context are highly valued by collectors.
- Historical Importance: Coins tied to key events or figures in history tend to attract more interest and higher bids.
- Condition: Coins in pristine condition, with minimal wear and attractive designs, tend to fetch the highest prices.
- Provenance: A well-documented history of ownership, especially if linked to famous collectors, can significantly increase a coin’s desirability.
The combination of rarity, historical significance, condition, and provenance ensures that certain rare coins remain among the most coveted and valuable collectibles in the world.
What is the 1792 Half Disme?
It’s one of the first U.S. coins, minted in 1792, and highly valuable due to its historical significance.
Why is the 1792 Half Disme valuable?
Its rarity, historical importance, and limited mintage make it worth over $800,000 at auction.
How much can rare coins sell for?
Rare coins can fetch millions, like the 1792 Birch Cent, which sold for $2.585 million.
What factors affect a coin’s value?
Rarity, historical significance, condition, and provenance are key factors.
What are other valuable coins?
Other notable coins include the 1792 Silver Center Cent, 1861 Confederate Half Dollar, and 1776 Continental Dollar.