A rare coin from the United States, dating back to the era of the American Declaration of Independence, was sold for an impressive $32,000. The coin, known as the Continental Dollar, was found in the most unexpected place—a toffee tin.
The discovery took place during an auction at Wotton Sale Rooms in Wotton-under-Edge, Gloucestershire, according to CBS19 News.
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The Coin’s Origins
The Continental Dollar was minted in 1776, during the year the United States declared independence from Britain. Made of metal and measuring 38mm across, this particular coin holds significant historical value. While it is unclear how many of these coins were originally produced, estimates suggest that around 6,000 were minted. However, only about 100 of these rare coins are believed to still exist today.
The Auction and Value
This rare find was eventually sold for $32,000 after being valued in the UK for £25,000. However, other versions of this coin have fetched even more at auctions. For instance, one such coin sold for $246,750, as noted by PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service), a reputable coin grading company in the U.S.
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The Discovery in a Toffee Tin
The owner of the coin found it stored among other items in a toffee tin, alongside jewelry, fossils, and carved stones. This unexpected discovery of the Continental Dollar added a surprising twist to the auction, as no one anticipated its immense value. It was later sent to the U.S. for grading by the Numismatic Guaranty Company to ensure its authenticity and determine its proper value.
Caution for Coin Collectors
While this particular coin was found to be genuine, experts warn collectors to be cautious, as counterfeit coins are widespread. Many fake Continental Dollars have circulated, with scammers attempting to sell these fake versions for large sums. Interestingly, some of these authentic dollars contain an error, where the word “CURRENCY” is misspelled as “CURENCY.”
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Conclusion
The sale of this rare coin serves as a reminder of the value that historical artifacts can hold. Whether found in a toffee tin or a jewelry box, these treasures from the past often carry both historical significance and a high price tag.
Ethan is a passionate rare coin collector with years of experience uncovering the stories and history behind unique coins. His insightful articles are a go-to for anyone curious about coin values or their fascinating backstories.