The 1933 Double Eagle isn’t just any coin. It’s a legendary piece of American history, worth over $18 million, and it’s the most expensive coin ever sold at auction. This gold coin’s story is full of drama—lawsuits, lost treasure, and presidential decisions. Let’s dive into why this rare coin has everyone talking.
Quick Facts About the 1933 Double Eagle
- Minted: 1933, Philadelphia Mint
- Designer: Augustus Saint-Gaudens
- Face Value: $20
- Metal: 90% gold, 10% copper
- Obverse (front): Lady Liberty holding a torch and olive branch
- Reverse (back): A bald eagle flying with rays of sunshine
Why It Was Never Circulated
In 1933, during the Great Depression, President Franklin D. Roosevelt ordered that all gold coins be melted to help save the economy. Though 445,500 Double Eagles were made, they were never officially released to the public. Almost all were melted down—except for a few that mysteriously escaped.
How Many Still Exist?
Only 13 coins are known to have survived:
| Location | Number of Coins |
|---|---|
| Smithsonian Museum | 2 |
| Fort Knox (U.S. Gov) | 10 |
| Private Collector | 1 (the famous Weitzman Specimen) |
The King Farouk Mystery
One Double Eagle was legally exported to King Farouk of Egypt in the 1940s, thanks to a paperwork mistake. After the king was overthrown, the coin vanished. It reappeared years later, causing a legal showdown between collectors and the U.S. government. Eventually, a deal was made to allow one coin—the Weitzman Specimen—to be privately owned.
Breaking Auction Records
- 2002: Sold for $7.59 million—a record at the time
- 2021: Resold at Sotheby’s for $18.9 million, becoming the world’s most valuable coin
Why Is It So Valuable?
| Factor | Reason |
|---|---|
| Rarity | Only 13 known, just 1 in private hands |
| Historical Value | Tied to the end of the gold standard |
| Legal Drama | Smuggling, court cases, and government investigations |
| Artistic Design | Considered one of the most beautiful coins ever made |
| Collector Hype | It’s the “holy grail” of coins |
Conclusion
The 1933 Double Eagle is more than just a coin—it’s a symbol of American history, full of mystery and beauty. With only one in private hands and a value of $18.9 million, it’s the most legendary coin ever made. Whether you’re into coins or just love a good story, the Double Eagle has it all: art, history, and treasure-hunting suspense.
FAQs
What is the 1933 Double Eagle?
A $20 gold coin from 1933, now worth millions due to its rarity and wild history.
Why wasn’t it used like normal money?
The government melted the coins to pull gold out of circulation during the Depression.
Can I own one?
Only one—the Weitzman Specimen—is legal for private ownership.
