The 1933 Double Eagle is one of the most legendary and sought-after coins in numismatic history. Originally minted during the Great Depression, these $20 gold coins were never officially circulated, making them incredibly rare.
Historical Context
In 1933, the U.S. government, under President Franklin D. Roosevelt, abandoned the gold standard. Gold coins were recalled from circulation, melted down, and stored as bullion. However, a small number of the 1933 Double Eagles escaped destruction, leading to a decades-long hunt for these coins.
Controversy and Rarity
For years, owning a 1933 Double Eagle was illegal. Despite this, some coins surfaced in private collections. In 2002, the U.S. Mint reached a legal agreement with a collector, allowing one coin to be sold legally. It fetched an astonishing $7.6 million at auction.
Modern Value
The rarity and mystique of the 1933 Double Eagle make it a coveted piece for collectors. One example sold in 2021 for $18.9 million, setting a world record for the most expensive coin ever sold.
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