A Treasure Trove Hits the Auction Block
A remarkable family coin collection is making headlines at Heritage Auctions’ latest World and Ancient Coins event in Dallas, Texas. This carefully preserved set of coins, passed down through generations, features everything from ancient Roman pieces to highly sought-after modern rarities. Collectors around the world are eagerly watching as some of these coins are expected to command prices in the millions. Highlighted by Greysheet, this auction underscores how family heirlooms can transform into life-changing treasures.
Gems from the Past: Coins That Tell History
The collection boasts rare coins that capture stories from centuries ago. One of the standout pieces is a rare Roman medallion from the reign of Emperor Maxentius (AD 307-312). With only two known examples in existence, this medallion is valued at $200,000 or more and traces back to the prestigious Paramount Collection, previously auctioned by Heritage. Another prized coin is the 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar, widely regarded as possibly the very first silver dollar struck by the U.S. Mint, with an estimated value up to $12 million. These ancient and early American coins attract serious bidders due to their rarity and rich historical significance.
Modern Coins with Massive Value
Not all coins in this collection are ancient. Several modern rarities showcase the incredible value that minting errors and scarcity can bring. The 1943-D Bronze Wheat Penny, a World War II-era minting mistake, is worth up to $159 million. Only about 20 of these pennies were mistakenly made in bronze instead of steel, making it a highly coveted collector’s item. Another gem is the 1894-S Barber Dime, with only nine known to exist, potentially fetching $2 million at auction. These modern rarities prove that even newer coins can become priceless assets.
Key Coins in the Family Collection
| Coin | Estimated Value | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Maxentius Medallion (AD 307-312) | $200,000+ | One of only two known |
| 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar | $12 million | Possibly first U.S. silver dollar |
| 1943-D Bronze Wheat Penny | Up to $159 million | Rare bronze error instead of steel |
| 1894-S Barber Dime | Up to $2 million | Only 24 minted, 9 known |
Why This Family Collection Is So Important
This collection stands apart by combining deep family history with outstanding numismatic value. Passed down through the years, it features rare coins that rarely appear on the market, including pieces from the famous Petropolis Collection, known for Brazilian gold rarities. Heritage Auctions, the world’s largest collectibles auction house, anticipates fierce bidding for these treasures. “This collection is a testament to the passion and dedication of coin collecting,” says Cris Bierrenbach, Heritage’s numismatics expert. The auction catalog itself doubles as a valuable reference, highlighting the collection’s significance.
How You Can Get Involved
Collectors and enthusiasts can participate in the auction through Heritage Auctions’ website at HA.com. The site offers free access to past auction results and high-quality images, making it easy to research coins before bidding. The auction runs through early June 2025 and is open to online bidders worldwide. If you have old coins at home, check for key mint marks like “S” for San Francisco or “D” for Denver — these can be clues to potential value. Consulting a trusted coin dealer for appraisal might reveal whether your family heirlooms could belong in a prestigious auction like this. With values climbing, this collection reminds us that even small coins can hold big rewards.