Many US coins have increased in value over time, particularly those that pertain to significant historical, cultural, or local events. “America the Beautiful” was a series of coins that were made between 2010 and 2012 by the US Mint and included national parks and other historical landmarks. These are the most in demand from collectors and thus often realize high auction prices. But collectors-and those with less formally described ‘collections’-could be sitting on a small treasure or two.
America the beautiful series
A Numismatics Delight The “America the Beautiful” series of coins was struck in commemoration of national parks and historic sites from sea to shining sea. Each different coin represents a different national park or landmark, and the coins were minted between 2010 and 2012. Some of those coins have turned out particularly valuable, commanding up to $6,600 at auction. According to numismatics, it is the rarity of these coins, added to their intricate design, that has driven up demand in the market.
Auction results to your astoundment
Following are seven of the most astonishing auction results for national park coins from the “America the Beautiful” series:
- 2020-W Salt River Bay national historical park
This is the coin that broke all auction records and sold to as high as $6,600. Its rarity and its association with the Salt River Bay National Historical Park have made it one of the most sought-after items among collectors.
- 2019-W Lowell national historical park
This is a coin with an intricate design that fetched $5,040 at auction. It shows the Lowell National Historical Park located in Massachusetts, a site with many firsts relating to America’s industrial revolution.
- 2019-W San Antonio Missions national historical park
It sold for $1,260 and commemorates the San Antonio Missions located in Texas. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historical importance.
- 2010-D Yellowstone national park
This iconic coin in the Yellowstone National Park series reached an auction price of $1,140. Its design epitomizes the park’s dramatic natural beauty.
- 2016-P Theodore Roosevelt national park
Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota was the feature of this coin, which sold for $1,020 in an auction because of limited coin availability and strong historical association.
- 2014-P Shenandoah national park
The Shenandoah National Park coin, known for its scenic beauty, was sold for $1,020 at auction, making it a prime example of how national parks can drive up coin value.
Tips for identifying valuable coins
Numismatic experts advise collectors to carefully inspect these coins since their value can increase manifold depending on certain factors:
- Production year: The production year focuses on coins minted from 2010 to 2012, which are important years for the “America the Beautiful” series.
- Condition and mint mark: The condition will also take note of the mint mark that can identify where it was struck. The West Point Mint is denoted with “W.”
- Additionally, coins in pristine condition without wear marks are far more valuable than others. Coins with a satin finish are rarer and fetch higher prices.
Why these coins are so valuable
While many exist, their appreciation is primarily due to their historical and cultural significance. Part of the “America the Beautiful” series, each coin depicts one of the United States national treasures, hence they hold a singular position in numismatics as well as American history. As time passes, they become scarcer and thus more valuable, and many collectors look to obtain them in the best possible condition.
How to identify if you have a valuable coin
- Year of minting: In demand are coins ranging from 2010 through 2012.
- Mint mark: Generally speaking, coins minted from the West Point Mint are considered more valuable. They are rarer when compared to others like Denver and Philadelphia.
- Condition: Without wear marks, the coin -and those having a satin finish- is in demand by collectors.
- Design details: Sharpness and fineness of design, from edge definition to minute details, further enhance the appearance and value of the coin.
