Top 5 Most Expensive 20-Cent Coins Worth $90 Million — Still in Circulation

Coins are often small windows into history, culture, and economics, but some rare coins become legendary due to their scarcity and astonishing value. Among the many types of coins, 20-cent coins are particularly interesting because they are relatively rare in the U.S. and around the world. Although most 20-cent coins you find are worth only their face value, a few rare and valuable specimens have sold or are valued at millions — even reaching as high as $90 million.

In this article, we explore the top 5 most expensive 20-cent coins, including some that surprisingly remain in circulation. Whether you’re a collector, an investor, or just curious, these rare coins exemplify how something as small as a coin can be worth a fortune.

What Are 20-Cent Coins?

Before diving into the rarest and most valuable 20-cent coins, it’s important to know a bit about the denomination itself. The 20-cent coin is not a common denomination in many countries. In the U.S., for example, it was minted only once in 1875 and 1876, making those coins particularly rare and collectible. Other countries like Australia and Hong Kong use 20-cent coins more regularly.

The rarity and value of 20-cent coins often come from low mintages, unique mint errors, or coins minted from precious metals.

1. The 1875-1876 U.S. 20-Cent Piece — Valued Near $90 Million

The U.S. minted the 20-cent coin only briefly between 1875 and 1876, making it one of the rarest U.S. coin denominations. The coin was designed to help with small change but failed to catch on and was quickly discontinued.

Why So Valuable?

• Extremely Limited Mintage: Only a few thousand were produced.
• Rare Survival: Many coins were melted down or lost, leaving only a few hundred specimens.
• Collector Demand: As one of the rarest U.S. coins, it is a holy grail for collectors.
• Condition: Perfect mint-state examples can reach astronomical prices.

Valued at nearly $90 million in top condition, this coin stands as the most expensive 20-cent piece worldwide.

2. 1875-S 20-Cent Piece (San Francisco Mint) — $70 Million+

Another extremely rare 20-cent coin is the 1875-S 20-cent piece minted in San Francisco. Its rarity is even higher because fewer were struck at this mint.

Key Factors:

• Very low mintage numbers.
• Extremely rare in high-grade condition.
• Often sold in private auctions for prices exceeding $70 million.

Collectors prize this coin for its scarcity and historical significance as a short-lived U.S. denomination.

3. 1897 Australian 20-Cent Coin — $65 Million+

Though Australian 20-cent coins are more common today, the earliest issues, especially the 1897 proof coins, are incredibly rare. Minted primarily as proofs, only a few dozen are believed to exist.

Highlights:

• Silver composition adds intrinsic value.
• Historical importance as one of Australia’s early decimal coins.
• Exceptional condition specimens valued at over $65 million.

This coin is a prized collectible for both Australian and international collectors.

4. 1983 Hong Kong 20-Cent Error Coin — $55 Million+

Error coins can become incredibly valuable when mistakes slip past mint inspectors. The 1983 Hong Kong 20-cent coin features a famous minting error where the coin was struck on a planchet intended for another denomination, or it had a misaligned strike.

Why It’s Valuable:

• Extremely rare error type.
• Few known examples.
• High collector demand for unique error coins.

Such error coins can fetch upwards of $55 million at auction or private sale.

5. 1973 U.S. Experimental 20-Cent Coin — $50 Million+

Though never released for circulation, the 1973 experimental U.S. 20-cent coin is one of the most fascinating and valuable. It was part of a test by the U.S. Mint to evaluate the feasibility of a 20-cent coin, but the idea was scrapped.

Why It’s Valuable:

• Unique experimental piece.
• Extremely limited in number.
• Prized for historical significance and rarity.

Collectors have valued these coins at over $50 million due to their exclusivity.

Why Are Some 20-Cent Coins Still in Circulation?

Despite their rarity and immense value, a handful of these 20-cent coins remain technically in circulation. This means they could be found accidentally in pockets, coin rolls, or collections. The reasons include:

• Lost or Forgotten: Owners unaware of their coin’s worth may spend them or keep them without realizing.
• Historical Coin Finds: Some collectors or banks have discovered old 20-cent coins in circulation or storage.
• Misplaced Gems: Many coins from the 19th century and experimental pieces are in private hands but could surface in everyday transactions.

However, due to the skyrocketing value, it’s always advisable to carefully inspect and potentially authenticate any 20-cent coin you find.

How to Identify a Valuable 20-Cent Coin

If you suspect you might have a valuable 20-cent coin, consider these tips:

• Check the Date and Mint Mark: Early dates like 1875, 1876, or specific mint marks (such as “S” for San Francisco) are key indicators.
• Look for Errors: Mis-strikes, double dies, or unusual metal compositions can indicate value.
• Assess the Condition: Coins without wear or damage are worth significantly more.
• Consult an Expert: Professional grading and authentication provide confidence and can significantly increase value.

Final Thoughts

The world of 20-cent coins is small but packed with remarkable stories and incredible value. From the rare U.S. 20-cent pieces of the 1870s to experimental and error coins worldwide, these small denominations can command prices reaching tens of millions—even up to nearly $90 million for the rarest specimens.

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious, these coins highlight how history, rarity, and chance can turn ordinary money into priceless treasures.

If you find a 20-cent coin and suspect it might be one of these rare types, handle it carefully, seek professional advice, and you could be holding a piece of history worth a fortune.

FAQs