The U.S. rare coin market is closing out a memorable year that will go down in the record books. In 2024, the numismatic market surpassed $6 billion in annual total volume. On a global scale, the coin collecting market was valued at $18.1 billion and is projected to climb to $43.9 billion by 2034, with an 8.5% annual growth rate.

In 2024, the American numismatic market  registered a significant pick-up, as overall demand for rare coins rose steadily.

Looking ahead, the rare coin market is poised for continued growth, with supply and demand fundamentals signaling an upward trend in value. As the market expands towards $40+ billion annually in the next ten years, rare coins already in the marketplace are expected to increase in value, driven by the limited supply inherent in the numismatic market. Collecting rare coins has been, and remains, a timeless passion and a prudent investment strategy.

Key Numismatic Trends in 2024

Several notable themes emerged in the numismatic market over the past year.

Tangible Assets Go Mainstream: An influx of new U.S. investors flocked to the numismatic and bullion markets in 2024. Young professionals, in particular, entered the precious metals and numismatic markets, many participating for the first-time. Many of these new investors heard about precious metals and rare coins through conversations with their business associates and friends, as more Americans became comfortable discussing the importance of owning tangible assets.

Increased Inventory Post Covid: A pick-up in transaction activity in the numismatic market occurred in 2024. More rare coins surfaced over the past year after limited inventory during the pandemic and post-pandemic years. In 2024, high-end rarities that emerged from collections for sale, after sitting decades with one owner, were quickly snapped up. As always, when true rarities become available for sale they are placed swiftly and then not seen again for many, many years.

Investors Seeking Diversification and Safety: Investor sentiment focused on economic and political uncertainties, particularly related to the election and long-term financial stability. The recognition that there is no quick fix for the prolonged dollar debasement created the need for sound investment strategies in rare coins and gold.

Generational Wealth Building: A major theme driving investors into coins and precious metals is a desire for a long-term, generational wealth building strategy.

Our Favorite Numismatic Placements in 2024

In the midst of an active year, Blanchard helped thousands of clients put in place investment strategies to preserve, protect and grow their wealth. Here are just a few of our top placements in 2024, including many ultra-rare, capstone coins that rarely surface for sale in the numismatic community.

1.1907 $10 Indian Rolled Edge MS65: This coin represents President Theodore Roosevelt’s initiative to beautify American currency, designed by Augustus Saint-Gaudens. It’s historically significant as the first year of issue for this design and valuable due to its rarity and high grade.

2. 1830 $5 Capped Bust MS65: Produced during a period of technological advancement at the U.S. Mint, its rarity and high grade contribute significantly to its value.

3. 1879 $4 Flowing Hair Stella PR66: This dazzling pattern coin was produced as a potential international trade coin. However, the illustrious $4 gold Stella was never authorized for official use in circulation. Its unique $4 denomination and limited mintage make it highly valuable and iconic for collectors.

4. 1863 $10 Liberty Ultra Cameo No Motto PR65: Minted during the Civil War, this coin is an extreme rarity, as only nine or ten are known to exist. Its historical context and high-quality Ultra Cameo finish contribute to its desirability.

5. 1797 $5 Draped Bust 15 Stars AU58: This ultra-rarity is one of the first gold coins ever struck at the Philadelphia Mint for the United States. Today, only a handful of these pieces of American history are known to exist.

6. 1863 $10 Liberty Deep Cameo PR64: This coin is one of the most elusive American rarities in all grades. Civil War era gold proof coins represent a trophy that only a fortunate few are able to claim ownership of. Owning such a coin is indeed a triumph for a collector that now owns a piece of important American history.

7. 1808 $2.50 Capped Bust AU58: This Quarter Eagle is a stunningly beautiful example of early American coinage and is considered one of the most important pieces of early American numismatic history.

8. $5 Bechtler 128 Grain AU58: This legendary, privately minted coin carries with it a rich history of the North Carolina gold rush in the 1820’s, featuring inherent rarity and precious metal value.

9. 1805 $5 Draped Bust MS65: The memorable design, created by Robert Scot, highlights the essence of our young nation’s aspirations and ideals. Its rarity, historical significance and elegant design make it a prized addition to any collection.

10. 1796 $10 Draped Bust AU58: This gold piece is highly prized, due in large part to its original mintage of just over 4,100 pieces. Today, survival estimates for all grades total a mere 150.

Investor Confidence and Wealth Building

Investors are increasingly confident in the stability, peace of mind and wealth preservation opportunities that precious metals and rare coins offer. Investors view these investments as part of a steady, long-term wealth-building strategy, adding to their portfolios whenever possible. Steady accumulation of rare coins and bullion has proven to be the most successful approach to building wealth over the long term.

The rare coin and the bullion markets continues to thrive, driven by increasing demand, limited supply, and a shift in global financial strategies. Investors and collectors alike can find confidence in the historical and financial value that rare coins and gold bring to their portfolios.

If you desire to build wealth for yourself and future generations, Blanchard can help you achieve your goals. Over the past 40 years, we have helped clients invest in American numismatic rarities and investment grade silver, gold, platinum and palladium bullion to protect and grow their wealth. We can help you too.

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You may have heard the phrase: “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know.” This mattered even in 18th century England.

In the 1700s, William Wood, a copper and tin mine owner in England had an abundance of metal and was looking for a way to profit. Wood had heard the American colonies were experiencing a coin shortage. So being an enterprising businessman, Wood used his connection to the king’s mistress—the Duchess of Kendal—to strike a deal with King George I to supply coins to the American colonies.

Under terms of the contract, Wood could produce coins for fourteen years with not more than 300 tons of metal. For that right, Wood had to pay the King 100 pounds each year and the king’s comptroller 200 pounds each year.

Today these lovely coins with a rich history are known as the Rosa Americana coins—which is Latin for “American Rose” and these coins command a hefty price at auction on the rare occasion they surface for sale.

Perhaps in gratitude for the royal contract, the Rosa Americana coins’ obverse features King George I, facing right, with the Tudor Rose on the reverse. The obverse legend highlights the King’s name and title while the reverse legend had various forms of “ROSA AMERICANA” and “UTILE DULCI” which means “THE USEFUL WITH THE AGREEABLE.”

It was widely known that the rose was intended to flatter King George I.

It was included to praise him as a successor to the Platagenets and Tudors—despite his German origin! It is said that King George I even refused to even try to learn English. In fact, he regarded his British crown as much less important as the Hanoverian and Holy Roman Empire titles he also held.

Rosa Americana coins were minted with Bath metal, which is an alloy created from 75% brass, 20% zinc (mixed with tin and bismuth) and 5% silver. The alloy had to be heated prior to striking to keep the dies from cracking. As a result, gas bubbles formed in the metal, which resulted in the coins featuring porous surfaces.

Wood struck Halfpenny, Penny and Two Pence coins. The first Two Pence designs were undated, and the remainder of the coins he struck were dated 1722, 1723 or 1724.

Due to the metal compound, these coins were lightweight and subsequently some American merchants refused to accept the coins in trade. Because the coins were not widely accepted, Wood stopped minting coins in 1723.

In 1725 Wood gave up his patent contract and instead accepted a pension for three years. Nonetheless, his coins remained in circulation in the American colonies until the Civil War. Examples have been unearthed in parts of New England, New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Among fifty-nine coins found during the restoration of Colonial Williamsburg, two were Rosa Americana pennies dated 1722.

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George Washington, America’s first president and one of its most revered founding fathers, left an indelible mark on the nation’s history. As a true American icon, it is no surprise that his image has graced countless American coins over the centuries. From vintage pieces to modern commemoratives, the rare George Washington coin remains among the most sought-after numismatic treasures. In this article, we’ll explore the history and significance of these coins, focusing on:

• The fascinating evolution of coins with George Washington on them
• The remarkable value of select specimens
• Where to find your own rare George Washington coin online

Watch this entertaining video to see a stunning Washington coin’s value revealed:

What coins are George Washington on?

From the iconic quarter in your pocket to rare commemorative pieces worth thousands, George Washington’s image appears on numerous U.S. coins. While not all Washington coins are considered rare or valuable, these are some of the most historically significant and sought-after specimens that collectors eagerly seek.

1. Rare George Washington dollar coin

The 2007 George Washington dollar coin kicked off the historic Presidential Dollar Series. Featuring a bold portrait of our first president on the obverse and the Statue of Liberty on the reverse – a design shared across the entire series – this manganese-brass coin marked a new chapter in American dollar coinage.

While the George Washington Dollar is not considered particularly rare due to its modern mintage, certain rare presidential dollar coins and error varieties can command significant premiums. Basic uncirculated specimens, however, remain readily available and affordable for beginning collectors.

George Washington Dollar

• Metal: Brass
• Year: 2007

Photo by Numista

2. George Washington half dollar coin

This George Washington Half Dollar, otherwise known as the 1982 George Washington 250th anniversary coin, was issued to commemorate the 250th anniversary of Washington’s birth. This 90% silver commemorative coin features a striking right-facing portrait of Washington on horseback on the obverse, while the reverse displays Mount Vernon, his historic Virginia estate.

The design, crafted by Elizabeth Jones, was the first commemorative U.S. coin created in nearly three decades. Two versions were minted: an uncirculated version made in Denver and a proof version struck in San Francisco.

While not among the rarest Washington coins, high-grade specimens of this George Washington commemorative coin, particularly the proof versions, are increasingly coveted by collectors who appreciate their historical significance and superior craftsmanship.

George Washington Half Dollar

• Metal: Silver
• Year: 1982

Photo by Numista

3. Rare Washington quarter coin

This 1959 rare Washington quarter coin represents a cherished piece from the historic 90% silver series that ran from 1932 to 1964. Originally introduced to commemorate Washington’s 200th birth anniversary, these quarters showcase John Flanagan’s elegant design featuring the first president’s left-facing portrait on the obverse. The reverse depicts a powerful American eagle perched on arrows and an olive branch, symbolizing national defense and peace.

While millions of these Washington quarter coins were produced for circulation, their 90% silver content makes them increasingly valuable today. The 1959 specimens are particularly interesting as they represent the latter years of silver quarter production, before the 1965 switch to copper-nickel cladding. Both collectors and precious metal investors value these coins not only for their silver content but also for their historical significance as pieces of everyday American commerce from a bygone era.

90% Silver Washington Quarter

• Metal: Silver
• Year: 1959
• Check our most current price here.

4. American Revolution bicentennial coin George Washington

The American Revolution Bicentennial George Washington Medal, also known as the George Washington Sons of Liberty coin, was minted in 1972 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the American Revolution. The obverse of the medal features a detailed portrait of George Washington, while its reverse is adorned with a depiction of the Tree of Liberty, a powerful symbol of the American Revolution. The Tree of Liberty represents the resilience and freedom fought for during the war, echoing Thomas Jefferson’s famous quote about the need for liberty to be “refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants”.

Made of bronze, this medal is an important piece of exonumia. Although not rare, it holds historical significance and can be more valuable in higher grades or as part of a commemorative set from the Bicentennial.

American Revolution Bicentennial George Washington Medal

• Metal: Bronze
• Year: 1972

Photo by Numista

5. 1789 George Washington peace and friendship coin

Inspired by a historically significant design that dates back to the earliest days of American diplomacy, this coin has become a valued piece among collectors. The original peace medals were silver pieces given by George Washington to Native American leaders as symbols of friendship and diplomatic ties between the new United States and various tribes.

While not as rare as the original silver medals presented to tribal leaders, this 1904 bronze reproduction created by the U.S. Mint is more than a George Washington souvenir coin. It offers historians and collectors a meaningful connection to early American-Native American relations. Well-preserved pieces are particularly valued as early American diplomatic artifacts.

George Washington Indian Peace Medal

• Metal: Bronze
• Year: 1904

Photo by The National Museum of American History

6. George Washington 1st president coin

This brass token, created by the Scovill Manufacturing Company of Waterbury, Connecticut, honors George Washington’s legacy as the first president of the United States. Created during a period when commemorative tokens were popular promotional items, its obverse displays Washington’s bust, while the reverse features the titles “Father of His Country” and “American Fabius” along with the tribute: “FIRST IN WAR FIRST IN PEACE FIRST IN THE HEARTS OF HIS COUNTRYMEN SERVED EIGHT YEARS AS PRESIDENT WITHOUT PAY”.

Scovill, a pioneer in American industrial manufacturing, produced this token as part of a broader range of consumer goods, including buttons and political memorabilia. While not legal tender, these tokens were often distributed at celebrations, fairs, or historic events related to Washington’s legacy. Though not especially rare, this George Washington coin token is valued among collectors for its craftsmanship and connection to early American manufacturing and patriotism.

George Washington Commemorative Token

• Metal: Brass
• Year: Early 20th century

Photo by The National Museum of American History

7. 1797 George Washington Masonic coin

The 1797 Masonic coin with George Washington is one of the most intriguing pieces of early American medallic art, highlighting Washington’s connection to Freemasonry. This brass medal, struck during Washington’s lifetime, features his portrait on the obverse while incorporating distinctive Masonic symbols on the reverse – a testament to his role as a prominent Freemason.

While restrikes were made in later years, authentic 1797 specimens remain among the most desirable Washington medals, particularly appealing to collectors interested in both numismatics and Masonic history.

1797 Medal Washington Masonic

• Metal: Brass
• Year: 1797

Photo by PCGS

8. George Washington Carver coin

The Washington – Carver Half Dollar, minted from 1951 to 1954, uniquely honors two great Americans: the U.S.A.’s first president George Washington, and agricultural scientist George Washington Carver. This commemorative silver half-dollar marks the first time an African American appeared on a U.S. coin, making it a groundbreaking piece in American numismatic history. The obverse features conjoined busts of both men, symbolizing the connection between American leadership and scientific innovation.

These coins were issued to promote racial cooperation and to fund research at the Tuskegee Institute, though sales fell short of expectations. Representing another historic instance of George Washington on a coin, well-preserved specimens hold special appeal for collectors interested in civil rights history and significant American commemoratives.

Washington – Carver Half Dollar

• Metal: Silver
• Year: 1951 – 1954

Photo by Numista

9. Washington crossing the Delaware coin

This 2021 Washington quarter coin pays homage to one of George Washington’s most iconic moments in the Revolutionary War. Made from copper-nickel, the coin’s reverse captures Washington standing at the bow of a boat, leading his troops across the icy Delaware River in 1776, a powerful symbol of bravery and determination. This design commemorates the bold action that helped turn the tide for American independence. On the obverse, Washington’s familiar profile remains, keeping continuity with the classic quarter design.

Though not considered particularly rare, this quarter marked a return to the single iconic image of Washington after years of diverse designs in the America the Beautiful series. Following the success of presidential coinage, like the John Adams presidential dollar, this design’s popularity with collectors shows the enduring appeal of our founding fathers on American coins.

Crossing the Delaware Washington Quarter

• Metal: Copper-nickel
• Year: 2021

Photo by Numista

10. George Washington funeral coin

The 1800 Washington Funeral medal is one of the rarest and most significant George Washington gold coins ever created. Struck in the year following Washington’s death, these solemn commemorative medals were produced to honor the passing of America’s first president.

The design features a funeral urn with “GW” inscribed, symbolizing the nation’s mourning. Original specimens were likely presented to Washington family members and distinguished citizens during memorial services.

Given its early American origins, historical significance, and precious metal content, this funeral medal represents the pinnacle of Washington numismatic collecting. The few surviving authentic examples, when they appear at auction, command exceptional premiums and intense interest from serious collectors of early American medals.

AV Medal Washington Funeral, Urn

• Metal: Gold
• Year: 1800

Photo by PCGS

11. 2007-W $10 Gold First Spouse CACG MS70 – Martha Washington

As the inaugural release in the First Spouse Gold Coin series, this $10 piece honors America’s first First Lady alongside her husband’s presidency. Minted at the West Point facility, coins graded MS70 by CACG, like the one below, represent the absolute pinnacle of mint perfection.

While the 1759 Martha Washington coin exists only as a rare test token created by the U.S. Mint for experimental purposes, this modern issue serves as an official tribute to her legacy. The coin’s obverse features a portrait of Martha Washington, while its reverse depicts her working with a seamstress in support of Revolutionary War soldiers.

Despite its modern mintage, perfect MS70 specimens of this historic first issue are increasingly valued by collectors, particularly those assembling complete First Spouse sets or specializing in presidential family commemoratives.

2007-W $10 Gold First Spouse CACG MS70 – Martha Washington

• Metal: Gold
• Year: 2007
• Get our most current price here.

To browse through more rare pieces, beyond Washington coin specimens, click here.

Where to buy rare George Washington coins

The coins and medals featuring George Washington represent more than just currency. They are tangible pieces of American history, from historic silver issues to modern commemorative treasures. Each specimen tells its own unique story of our nation’s first president and his lasting impact on America.

Blanchard specializes in helping collectors acquire these historical pieces, and its expert team is always available to answer questions about George Washington rare coin specimens or assist in building your presidential collection. We invite you to explore these remarkable pieces of American heritage with us.

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