The 1787 Brasher Doubloon is one of the most legendary and valuable coins in the world. It recently sold for a jaw-dropping $9.36 million, making it a true icon in American coin collecting.
Why Was This Coin Made?
After the American Revolution, the U.S. didn’t have a strong money system. That’s when Ephraim Brasher, a talented goldsmith (and George Washington’s neighbor!), stepped in.
In 1787, Brasher created his own gold coins to help solve the money problems. These coins weren’t official at first, but they were trusted and used in trade. This made them a big step toward creating America’s first coins.
What’s on the Coin?
The Brasher Doubloon has beautiful and meaningful designs:
- Front (Obverse): A rising sun over mountains and sea, symbolizing hope and a bright future. Around the edge, it says “NOVA EBORACA COLUMBIA EXCELSIOR,” which means “New York, America, Ever Higher.”
- Back (Reverse): An American eagle holding an olive branch (peace) and arrows (defense), with the words “UNUM E PLURIBUS” (One from many).
Details:
- Weight: About 26.6 grams
- Gold: 22-carat (91.7% pure)
- Original Value: $15 (equal to about 16 Spanish dollars)
Why Is It So Rare?
Only fewer than 10 Brasher Doubloons are known to exist today! Some versions have Brasher’s tiny “EB” initials stamped on the eagle’s wing. Others have it on the shield.
These little differences make each coin unique—and super valuable.
Auction Records
The Brasher Doubloon has broken auction records again and again:
| Year | Sale Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1979 | $725,000 | First big auction record |
| 2011 | $7.4 million | Price surged |
| 2021 | $9.36 million | Most expensive U.S. coin at the time |
Some experts say it could now be worth $11 million or more, depending on the version and condition.
Why Is It Worth So Much?
Here’s why the Brasher Doubloon is so valuable:
| Reason | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Rarity | Less than 10 coins exist |
| History | First gold coin linked to the U.S. |
| Design | Beautiful and detailed artwork |
| Famous Maker | Created by a trusted craftsman |
| Auction Buzz | Sold for record-breaking prices |
Conclusion
The 1787 Brasher Doubloon is more than just a coin—it’s a piece of early American history. It stands for freedom, bold ideas, and the beginning of the U.S. dollar. Whether you’re a coin collector or a history fan, this coin is the ultimate treasure.
FAQs
Q1: What makes the Brasher Doubloon special?
It’s the first gold coin linked to the U.S. and extremely rare—only about 10 are known to exist.
Q2: Who made the Brasher Doubloon?
Ephraim Brasher, a skilled goldsmith and neighbor of George Washington.
Q3: How much is the Brasher Doubloon worth today?
Depending on the condition, it can sell for $2.5 million to over $11 million.
