The $20 Coin Worth $18.9M: The 1933 Double Eagle’s Forbidden Legacy
The 1933 Double Eagle, a $20 gold coin, is illegal to own yet one sold for $18.9 million in 2021, making it the world’s most valuable coin.
In the realm of rare coin collecting, few pieces evoke as much intrigue as the 1933 Double Eagle. Originally minted as a $20 gold coin, its journey from legal tender to a highly coveted artifact is a tale of history, legality, and immense value.
In 1933, amidst the Great Depression, President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued Executive Order 6102, mandating the return of gold coins to the U.S. Treasury to stabilize the economy. Consequently, the 1933 Double Eagles, though minted, were never officially circulated and were ordered to be melted down. However, a few escaped this fate, leading to legal battles over their ownership.
Remarkably, one such coin surfaced and was sold at a Sotheby’s auction in 2021 for a staggering $18.9 million, setting a world record for the most expensive coin ever sold. This particular Double Eagle is the only one legally permitted for private ownership, with the rest considered illegal to possess under U.S. law.
For investors and collectors, the 1933 Double Eagle represents more than just a coin; it’s a symbol of historical significance and the complexities of asset ownership. Its story underscores the importance of understanding the legalities surrounding rare collectibles and the potential value they can hold.
