Coins from the 1930s, especially those made during the Great Depression, can be surprisingly valuable. Many of these coins are important not just for their worth but also for their history. When the Great Depression hit, the U.S. Mint produced fewer coins, especially at the Denver Mint. This makes those coins rare and more sought after by collectors. Some coins were even made in limited numbers or not available to the public. Here, we’ll look at seven coins from the 1930s that are worth a lot of money today.
Table of Valuable 1930s Coins
| Coin Name | Auction Record Price | Year Minted | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1933 Double Eagle | $18,872,250 | 1933 | Last gold $20 coin; most were melted down. |
| 1933 Indian Head Gold Eagle | $881,250 | 1933 | Last $10 gold coin before production stopped. |
| 1932-D Washington Quarter | $143,750 | 1932 | Only 12% minted in Denver; unique design change. |
| 1934 Peace Dollar | $108,000 | 1934 | Minted using silver from world markets; rare. |
| 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel | $99,875 | 1937 | Missing front leg due to minting error. |
| 1938-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar | $44,400 | 1938 | Rarer than 1936 issue; saved during minting. |
| 1932-D Lincoln (Wheat) Penny | $25,200 | 1932 | Tough to find in good condition; highly desired. |
1. 1933 Double Eagle
The 1933 Double Eagle is one of the most famous coins in American history. It was designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens and was the last gold $20 coin made by the U.S. Mint before the country stopped using gold as money. Only a few of these coins were actually released because an executive order from President Franklin Roosevelt made it illegal for people to keep gold coins. The highest auction price for this coin reached an astonishing $18,872,250 in June 2021!
2. 1933 Indian Head Gold Eagle
Another valuable coin is the 1933 Indian Head Gold Eagle, which is worth a lot due to its limited availability. Like the Double Eagle, this coin was also designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens. It was last made in 1933 before the Mint stopped production. This rare coin sold for $881,250 at auction in June 2016. Collectors really want this coin because it represents a unique moment in U.S. coin history.
3. 1932-D Washington Quarter
The 1932-D Washington Quarter is special because only 12% of the Washington quarters made that year were minted in Denver. The design of this coin was also changed because people thought the original version made George Washington look like he was retreating. This quarter sold for $143,750 at auction in April 2008. Its rarity and historical significance make it a favorite among collectors.
4. 1934 Peace Dollar
Next is the 1934 Peace Dollar. This coin was minted after the U.S. began to buy silver from other countries, making it less common. Only less than one million of these coins were made. It’s known for its design featuring a peaceful image, and its auction record is $108,000 from August 2018. This coin represents a unique point in history, reflecting the country’s focus on peace after World War I.
5. 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel
The 1937-D Three-Legged Buffalo Nickel is one of the most famous coins of the 20th century. This coin is rare because the front leg of the buffalo is missing due to a mistake in the minting process. David Hall, a coin expert, called it “one of the most important coins.” It sold for $99,875 at auction in October 2021. Its unusual design and limited availability make it very valuable.
6. 1938-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar
The 1938-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar is another coin collectors seek. Although it’s easier to find in uncirculated condition, it’s still rare compared to other years. This coin sold for $44,400 in September 2020. It’s appreciated for its beautiful design and historical context, representing a time when the U.S. was starting to recover from the Great Depression.
7. 1932-D Lincoln (Wheat) Penny
Finally, we have the 1932-D Lincoln (Wheat) Penny. Coin expert Jaime Hernandez says this penny is tough to find and highly desired. It sold for $25,200 in February 2021. Its scarcity and the demand from collectors make it valuable, especially when in good condition.
Conclusion
Coins from the 1930s hold a lot of value, not just in money but in history. Each of these coins tells a story about America during a tough time. Collectors pay high prices for them because they are rare and significant. If you come across any of these coins, you could be holding a piece of history worth a lot more than you think! The 1930s were a unique time, and these coins remind us of that era. Understanding their significance can help you appreciate them even more, whether you’re a collector or just curious about the history behind these valuable treasures.