If history is your thing, then this weekend is going to be a blast. Almost two centuries old, a coveted gold Mormon coin dating back from the year 1849 will be shown in Utah. Apart from being a pièce de résistance, this particular gismo is also dangerous to the tune of a million dollars or more.
Where to See the Coin
The coin is currently being held at the All About Coins shop in Salt Lake City’s Sugar House neighborhood, but you can catch it at the Utah Coin Show this weekend in Sandy. It will be on display at the Salt Lake Community College Conference Center at Miller Campus from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. If you want to attend, the cost is $5 for individual tickets and $8 for a family.
The Coin’s Fascinating History
What is the uniqueness of this coin? This coin was made from the California Gold Rush era gold dust. This region was apparently, at some point, witness to the flow of that gold to Salt Lake City, whereby it was converted to coins. Bob Campbell, the owner of All About Coins, explains that this is the best specimen of approximately 20 known remaining coins of this particular coin type.
“Most of the coins in existence were melted many years ago and therefore are gone,” laments Campbell. That is what makes this coin extravagant as well—it managed to live on looking as it looks now, whereas most were already destroyed.
A Million-Dollar Coin Found by Accident
You might think a coin worth over a million dollars would be well-guarded, but surprisingly, this one was discovered by accident. Campbell shared the story of a family who stumbled upon the coin after their grandparents had passed away. They found it in a safety deposit box and had no idea it was worth such a fortune.
“They had no clue what they had found,” Campbell says. Can you imagine discovering something so valuable without even knowing it?
A Piece of Utah’s Rich History
For Utah, this coin represents more than just monetary value—it’s a significant piece of history. It speaks to the early days of the pioneers and the rich history of the region.
“To see history in your hands, that’s what makes it so interesting,” Campbell adds. And it’s not just historians who are intrigued; even those who handle rare coins daily are still fascinated by it.
Holding History in Your Hands
According to Frank Balena, a new addition to the All About Coins team with a focus on coin grading, working on a rare coin is always exciting. ‘How do you think it’s like holding history in your palms—a coin of this magnitude.’ Every nick, every scratch, and every mark that’s present on it is history in itself.’ Balena opines that these micro engravings on the coin speak of the coin’s experiences over time. Each one of these impressions enhances its appeal and aids in the differentiation of the coin.
Don’t Miss Your Chance
If you’re interested in seeing this rare piece of Mormon history, don’t miss your chance to visit the Utah Coin Show this weekend. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious, seeing a coin that has lasted for nearly two centuries and is valued at over $1 million is an experience worth having.
