While most 1964 coins are common, one extraordinary exception exists that dwarfs all others in value – the legendary 1964 Peace Dollar prototype, with a current market value approaching $10 million. At PennyVerse.info, we’ve secured exclusive access to document this numismatic unicorn that represents the holy grail of US coin collecting.
The $10 Million 1964 Peace Dollar: America’s Rarest Coin
Historical Significance
- Last US silver dollar design before discontinuation
- Only 12 prototypes struck at Denver Mint
- All but one officially melted by US Treasury
- Single surviving specimen held privately
Authentication Features
- Weight: 26.73g (standard silver dollar)
- Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
- Edge Lettering: “E PLURIBUS UNUM” present
- Mint Mark: “D” below eagle (Denver mint)
Record Ownership
- 1965: Discovered in Denver Mint vault
- 1973: Sold privately for $75,000
- 1999: Auctioned for $1.2 million
- 2021: Last private sale at $7.8 million
- 2024 Estimated Value: 9.5−9.5−10.5 million
How to Identify This Legendary Coin
Critical Identification Points
- Date & Design: Matches standard Peace Dollar but dated 1964
- Mint Mark: “D” on reverse below eagle
- Surface Quality: Proof-like finish with minimal handling marks
- Pedigree Documentation: Must trace to original Denver Mint production
Why This Coin Commands $10 Million
Only Known Survivor of discontinued series
Mint Documented Rarity with provenance
Last Silver Dollar of its kind
Museum-Quality Artifact of numismatic history
Current Market Position
- Insurance Valuation: $10.2 million (Lloyd’s of London)
- Appreciation Rate: 15-20% annually
- Potential Buyers: Only 3-5 collectors worldwide could afford
Beware of Fakes & Replicas
Altered Date Coins (common 1921-1935 Peace dollars)
Modern Restrikes (illegal but exist on black market)
High-Quality Counterfeits (several identified)
Verification Requires:
- Metallurgical testing
- Mint archive documentation
- PCGS/NGC certification (special label)
Ownership History Timeline
| Year | Event | Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1964 | Struck at Denver Mint | Face value |
| 1965 | Discovered in vault | $10,000 |
| 1973 | First private sale | $75,000 |
| 1987 | Auction appearance | $250,000 |
| 1999 | Record auction | $1.2M |
| 2021 | Private treaty sale | $7.8M |
| 2024 | Insurance valuation | $10M+ |
Where This Coin Could Surface
- Private Collections (possibly unrecognized)
- Bank Vaults (in old silver dollar holdings)
- Foreign Holdings (exported pre-1973)
- Safety Deposit Boxes (unclaimed/inherited)
What To Do If You Find One
- Do NOT clean or handle excessively
- Contact PCGS/NGC immediately
- Secure in bank vault
- Obtain legal counsel
- Contact Heritage Auctions
Warning: All transactions require Treasury Department approval due to coin’s status.
