Man Finds $1 Million 1804 Silver Dollar Inside A Locked Desk Drawer

In a remarkable turn of events, a man stumbled upon a rare 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar while cleaning out an old desk drawer.

While tidying up an old desk drawer, a man unexpectedly found a rare 1804 Draped Bust Silver Dollar. Known among collectors as the “King of American Coins,” this coin is highly sought after by numismatists worldwide. The discovery has created a buzz in the coin-collecting community, as only about 15 of these coins are known to exist.

The Significance of the 1804 Silver Dollar

Although the coin bears the date 1804, it was actually minted decades later, in the 1830s. These silver dollars were crafted as diplomatic gifts for foreign officials, which adds to their rarity. The coin’s scarcity combined with its historical background makes it incredibly valuable, with some examples selling for millions at auctions.

Classification and Value

The 1804 silver dollars are divided into three main categories:

Class	Number Known	Description	Estimated Value
I	8	Original diplomatic gifts	Up to $7.86 million
II	1	Unauthorized Mint restrike	Not for sale (Smithsonian)
III	6	Later restrikes for collectors	Up to $1.88 million

The coin found in the desk drawer is thought to be a Class III specimen, which makes this discovery especially significant.

Authentication and Auction

After the find, top numismatic experts conducted thorough authentication tests, confirming the coin’s authenticity. It received a Proof-55 grade from the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC). The coin is now scheduled to be auctioned at the upcoming Stack’s Bowers Galleries event, where it is expected to sell for more than $1 million.

Historical Context

The 1804 silver dollar holds a special place in U.S. history. Initially minted as diplomatic gifts, these coins represent early American attempts to build international relationships. Their limited numbers and unique origin story enhance their allure and value.

The discovery of this rare 1804 silver dollar in an old desk drawer highlights how valuable treasures can remain hidden for years. This upcoming auction not only excites collectors but also celebrates the rich history preserved through numismatic pieces.

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