Have you ever heard of a coin so rare and controversial that owning it was once against the law? The 1933 Double Eagle is one of the most famous coins in history—not just because it’s worth $18.9 million, but because the U.S. government tried to destroy every single one. This is the crazy true story behind the world’s most expensive coin.
What Is the 1933 Double Eagle?
The Double Eagle was a $20 gold coin minted by the U.S. government. The 1933 version was special because it was the last gold coin meant for regular use before President Franklin D. Roosevelt banned private gold ownership during the Great Depression.
- Only 445,500 were minted, but almost all were melted down.
- About 20 survived, making them extremely rare.
- One sold in 2021 for a record $18.9 million!
Why Was It Illegal to Own?
In 1933, the U.S. stopped using gold coins to help stabilize the economy. The government ordered all 1933 Double Eagles destroyed, but a few “escaped” before they could be melted.
- The Secret Service tracked down and seized most of them.
- Owning one was like holding stolen government property.
- For decades, only one was legally owned—by King Farouk of Egypt.
The Coin That Survived: The King Farouk Exception
Before the U.S. realized some coins had gone missing, one was legally sold to Egypt’s King Farouk. When the U.S. found out, it was too late—he already had it.
- After his fall from power, the coin disappeared for decades.
- It resurfaced in 1996 when a British dealer tried to sell it.
- The U.S. government seized it, leading to a legal battle.
The $18.9 Million Sale: How It Became Legal
After years of court fights, the U.S. made a deal:
- The coin would be auctioned, and the money split between the government and the owner.
- In 2002, it sold for $7.6 million—the most ever for a coin at the time.
- In 2021, it broke its own record, selling for $18.9 million!
Are There More 1933 Double Eagles Out There?
Yes! At least nine more were found in recent years, including:
- 10 coins seized from a jeweler’s family in 2004.
- One more discovered in 2021, still tied up in legal battles.
If another one appears, it could be worth millions—but only if the government allows it to be sold.
Why This Coin Is So Special
The 1933 Double Eagle isn’t just rare—it’s a piece of American history, scandal, and legal drama. It’s the only coin that was illegal to own, survived government destruction, and became the most valuable coin ever sold.
Could there be more hidden in old collections? Maybe! But one thing’s for sure: if you ever find one, call a lawyer before you call a collector!
FAQs
- Why is the 1933 Double Eagle coin so valuable?
*Only 20 survived after the U.S. ordered most melted, making it ultra-rare.* - How much is a 1933 Double Eagle worth?
One sold for $18.9 million in 2021—the most expensive coin ever. - Why was owning a 1933 Double Eagle illegal?
The U.S. banned private gold ownership in 1933, making these coins government property. - How many 1933 Double Eagles exist today?
About 20 are confirmed, but only one is legally owned by a private collector. - Who legally owned a 1933 Double Eagle?
Egypt’s King Farouk bought one before the U.S. realized they were stolen. - Can I sell a 1933 Double Eagle if I find one?
No—the U.S. government will seize it unless a special deal is made.
