The 1933 Double Eagle coin isn’t just any piece of metal. It’s a rare and valuable treasure, valued at over $30 million, and carries a deep historical significance. With its intricate design and mysterious past, it has become a prized possession among collectors and historians. This coin’s story, which stretches back to the Great Depression, is full of intrigue, mystery, and high-stakes legal battles.
The Creation of the 1933 Double Eagle
The 1933 Double Eagle was minted during one of America’s toughest economic times—the Great Depression. Created in Philadelphia, it was part of the Gold Eagle series that had been in circulation since 1907. Augustus Saint-Gaudens, a famous sculptor, designed the coin, featuring Liberty on one side and a soaring eagle on the other. Although many were made, very few of these coins left the U.S. Mint, making it an exceptionally rare find today.
Roosevelt’s Gold Recall
In 1933, President Franklin D. Roosevelt called for gold coins, including the Double Eagle, to be removed from circulation to help stabilize the economy. Most of the 1933 Double Eagles were supposed to be melted down. However, some of these rare coins were smuggled out, adding a layer of mystery to their story.
The Story of King Farouk
One of these rare 1933 Double Eagles ended up with King Farouk of Egypt, a famous coin collector. The U.S. government mistakenly allowed the coin to leave the country. When they realized this, they tried to get it back, but the coin vanished after Farouk was overthrown. It reappeared in the 1990s, sparking new interest and legal challenges.
Legal Battles Over Ownership
When the 1933 Double Eagle resurfaced, it triggered a series of legal battles. The U.S. government argued it still owned the coin, while collectors fought for their right to keep it. After long legal disputes, one coin was allowed to be privately owned. It was sold in 2002 for over $7 million, setting a record at the time.
A Record-Breaking Auction
In June 2021, the 1933 Double Eagle broke all previous records when it was sold for an astounding $18.9 million at a Sotheby’s auction. This sale proved the coin’s massive cultural and historical importance. Its value doesn’t just come from its rarity but also from the incredible stories tied to it.
The 1933 Double Eagle is more than just a coin—it’s a piece of American history. From the Great Depression to a record-breaking auction, this rare treasure has been through a thrilling journey of mystery, legal drama, and immense value. Collectors and historians alike are drawn to this coin because of its extraordinary story, making it one of the most famous coins in the world today.
Why is the 1933 Double Eagle so valuable?
The coin’s value comes from its rarity, historical significance, and the mystery surrounding its limited release during the Great Depression.
How many 1933 Double Eagles exist?
Only a few of the original 1933 Double Eagles are known to exist, making it one of the rarest coins.
What was the price of the 1933 Double Eagle at auction?
In June 2021, one of these coins was sold for $18.9 million, making it the most expensive coin ever sold at that time.
Why was the 1933 Double Eagle never circulated?
President Franklin D. Roosevelt recalled gold from circulation in 1933 to stabilize the U.S. economy, and the Double Eagles were ordered to be melted down.
Who designed the 1933 Double Eagle coin?
The coin was designed by renowned sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, featuring Liberty and a soaring eagle.
