The old adage, “Change is the only constant,” certainly applies to the coin market. In 2013 we saw the first coin to top $10,000,000 in auction. This was the famed 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar from the Cardinal Collection. This sale generated a great deal of confidence in the increasing value of the great numismatic rarities. More recently, in October of 2022, the Walton 1913 Liberty Nickel sold for $4.2 million. 1913 Liberty Nickels are very rare because that was the year the Liberty Head was set to be replaced with the Buffalo design, so nickels with the Liberty Head design were supposed to be produced that year.
Coin Values Are Increasing
But high-value coins aren’t the only ones seeing price increases. Morgan and Peace Dollars, both circulated and uncirculated, continue to be in high demand, driven by renewed collector interest and a strong bullion market. Even common-date coins, such as the 1879-S, 1881-S, and 1882-S in Choice and Gem Uncirculated condition, are being eagerly sought after by collectors looking to secure quality pieces before prices rise further. With increased competition among buyers and a growing appreciation for classic U.S. coinage, these silver dollars remain a hot commodity in the numismatic market.
As mentioned, change is the only constant. Over the past year, the coin and bullion markets have seen some big changes, mostly driven by economic uncertainty, inflation worries, and a growing interest from both collectors and investors. Gold and silver prices have stayed strong, with occasional spikes as global events and Federal Reserve decisions shake things up. This has kept demand high for bullion coins like American Gold and Silver Eagles, as more people look for safe investments. At the same time, the numismatic world has been buzzing, especially with the continued popularity of Morgan and Peace Dollars, fueled by the U.S. Mint’s modern releases.
Rare and high-grade coins have been breaking records at auctions, showing just how much collectors are willing to pay for top-tier pieces. Notably, a 1652 New England Threepence, one of only two known to exist, fetched an astounding $2.52 million at a Stack’s Bowers auction this November, setting a new benchmark for colonial American coinage.
Additionally, an 1870-CC $20 “double eagle” gold coin, minted in Carson City, Nevada, realized $1.44 million in a recent auction, showing the strong demand for historic U.S. gold coins. With so much uncertainty in the economy, more people are turning to coins and bullion as a solid, tangible way to protect their wealth, making 2025 an exciting year for the market.
So how should the average collector/investor proceed, considering these changes in coin values? A balanced portfolio of high quality collector coins and silver and gold bullion coins will smooth out the ups and downs of the changing trends. Buy coins and bullion for the long term and avoid reacting to short-term price changes. Have fun building your collection, buy quality coins and bullion, and hold for long-term profits.
