World War coins have captured the imagination of collectors for decades due to their historical significance and the limited mintage during the war periods.
Whether produced during or after World War I and II, these coins not only hold immense historical value but also substantial monetary worth.
In this article, we explore the top 9 most valuable World War coins ever found, highlighting their unique features, estimated values, and historical significance.
Top 9 Most Valuable World War Coins Ever Found
1. 1917 Type 1 Standing Liberty Quarter (United States)
- Country: United States
- Year: 1917
- Estimated Value: $20,000+
- Key Features: This coin is notable for the absence of protective covering over Liberty’s breast, making it a rare version of the Type 1 coin. The design was quickly modified, making these early versions scarce.
2. 1936 Canadian $1 Silver Dollar
- Country: Canada
- Year: 1936
- Estimated Value: $10,000
- Key Features: Featuring King George V, this coin is prized for its depiction of a voyageur and an Indigenous man. These elements make it one of Canada’s most iconic and valuable silver dollars.
3. 1939 Third Reich 5 Reichsmark (Germany)
- Country: Germany
- Year: 1939
- Estimated Value: $15,000
- Key Features: Bearing the Nazi emblem of a swastika and eagle, this coin from Adolf Hitler’s regime is both a controversial and rare piece, appealing to both historians and collectors.
4. 1945-S Philippines Silver 50 Centavos
- Country: Philippines (U.S.)
- Year: 1945
- Estimated Value: $7,000 to $12,000
- Key Features: Minted under U.S. Commonwealth during World War II, these coins feature a mix of American and Filipino heritage, making them highly collectible.
5. 1918 Trench Art Coins
- Country: Various
- Year: 1918
- Estimated Value: $5,000 to $50,000
- Key Features: Created by soldiers during World War I, these handmade coins often feature intricate engravings and designs, making each one a unique collector’s item. The personal touch and historical context significantly increase their value.
6. 1921 Chinese Silver Dollar (Yuan Shih-kai)
- Country: China
- Year: 1921
- Estimated Value: $60,000+
- Key Features: Depicting military leader Yuan Shih-kai, this coin is a rare example from China’s turbulent transition during the early 20th century.
7. 1914 French 20 Francs Gold Coin
- Country: France
- Year: 1914
- Estimated Value: $5,000 to $15,000
- Key Features: Featuring the iconic Marianne and the Gallic rooster, this gold coin is a symbol of French nationalism during World War I and is highly sought after for its historical significance.
8. 1943 Steel Penny (United States)
- Country: United States
- Year: 1943
- Estimated Value: $85,000+
- Key Features: Due to copper shortages during World War II, the U.S. Mint produced pennies using steel. These rare coins have become a collector’s dream, with a handful of copper 1943 pennies also in circulation by mistake, fetching even higher prices.
9. 1942 George VI Indian Silver Rupee
- Country: India
- Year: 1942
- Estimated Value: $3,000 to $10,000
- Key Features: This coin was minted during British rule and features King George VI. As coins from the British era in India become rarer, their value continues to rise, making them a significant investment for collectors.
| Coin | Year | Country | Estimated Value | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1917 Type 1 Standing Liberty Quarter | 1917 | United States | $20,000+ | Lack of protective covering on Liberty’s breast |
| 1936 Canadian $1 Silver Dollar | 1936 | Canada | $10,000 | King George V, voyageur and Indigenous man design |
| 1939 Third Reich 5 Reichsmark | 1939 | Germany | $15,000 | Nazi emblem with swastika and eagle |
| 1918 Trench Art Coins | 1918 | Various | $5,000 to $50,000 | Unique handmade engravings by soldiers |
| 1945-S Philippines Silver 50 Centavos | 1945 | Philippines (U.S.) | $7,000 to $12,000 | Minted under U.S. Commonwealth during WWII |
| 1921 Chinese Silver Dollar | 1921 | China | $60,000+ | Depicts military leader Yuan Shih-kai |
| 1914 French 20 Francs Gold Coin | 1914 | France | $5,000 to $15,000 | Features Marianne and the Gallic rooster |
| 1943 Steel Penny | 1943 | United States | $85,000+ | Struck from steel due to copper shortages in WWII |
| 1942 George VI Indian Silver Rupee | 1942 | India | $3,000 to $10,000 | Features King George VI |
Conclusion
World War coins not only represent monetary value but also encapsulate a rich historical legacy. These coins provide insight into the economic conditions and the geopolitical turmoil of the time. For collectors and investors alike, these pieces of history continue to grow in value due to their rarity and significance.
Whether you are a seasoned numismatist or just starting out, keeping an eye out for these coins in auctions or collections could be highly rewarding, both financially and historically.
FAQs
1. Why are World War coins so valuable?
World War coins are rare due to the limited mintage during the wartime period and their historical significance. Their value is further enhanced by their condition, rarity, and the design elements tied to the war effort.
2. How can I identify if my coin is from World War I or II?
You can identify a coin from World War I or II by its date (1914-1918 for WWI, 1939-1945 for WWII), as well as any specific symbols, mint marks, or inscriptions that reference the war.
3. What is the most valuable World War coin?
One of the most valuable World War coins is the 1943 Steel Penny from the United States, which can fetch over $85,000 due to its rarity.
4. Are World War coins still being produced?
No, World War coins are no longer being produced. However, commemorative series like the World War II: Valor & Victory Series are minted in memory of significant events from that era.
5. Where can I find these valuable World War coins?
Valuable World War coins can be found at auctions, numismatic dealers, or through private collectors. Some of the most notable auction houses include Stack’s Bowers and Sotheby’s.
References
- Harris County Business Relief. “Top 9 Most Valuable World War Coins Ever Found!”
- U.S. Money Reserve. “WWII Valor & Victory Series”
- The Spruce Crafts. “10 Rarest and Most Valuable Coins in the World”
- Coin World. “Commemorative Coin Prices Known for Silver and Clad Issues”
