1792 Birch Cent Worth $10.1 Million Found in Old Trunk
In early June 2025, a retired teacher sorting through family heirlooms in rural Pennsylvania stumbled upon what appeared at first glance to be an old penny wrapped in cloth inside an ancient trunk.
A local appraiser quickly recognized it as a 1792 Birch Cent, a prototype coin of enormous rarity .Upon authentication, the coin was valued at an astonishing $10.1 million, stunning both collectors and historians.
Why This Coin Is So Valuable
The 1792 Birch Cent holds immense historical significance:
- Minted as a prototype in Philadelphia in 1792, during the first year of the U.S. Mint’s existence .
- Designed by engraver Robert Birch (or possibly William Birch), with the inspiring inscription “LIBERTY PARENT OF SCIENCE & INDUSTRY”—reflecting Enlightenment ideals .
- Only about 10 examples are known to exist, making any specimen exceptionally rare .
- This particular cent is one of the finest-preserved, with minimal wear and sharply defined details despite its age .
Quick Facts at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Discovery | Early June 2025 |
| Location Found | Family heirloom trunk, Pennsylvania farmhouse |
| Estimated Value | $10.1 million |
| Mint Year & Design | 1792; copper prototype with “LIBERTY PARENT OF SCIENCE & INDUSTRY” inscription |
| Surviving Specimens | Approx. 10 known |
| Condition Grade | Among the best-preserved seen today |
Historical Significance & Rarity
The coin’s design and provenance contribute to its multimillion-dollar value:
- Minted just one year after the Constitution’s ratification, it represents the U.S.’s first steps toward a regulated currency .
- Only test pieces were struck—these prototype “pattern” cents were not meant for circulation; most were melted down, making surviving examples incredibly scarce .
- Its fine preservation and crisp lettering make it especially prized among collectors and museums .
Market Buzz & Potential Auction
Interest in the coin has skyrocketed:
- Multiple prestigious auction houses have expressed interest.
- Preliminary offers already exceed $10 million, with formal estimates reaching as high as $10.1 million .
- The owner is evaluating whether to auction or donate the cent to a historical institution.
The Legacy of the Birch Cent
The 1792 Birch Cent is more than just a rare artefact—it’s a symbol of American innovation and aspiration:
- Prototype cents like this influenced the design and standardization of U.S. coinage.
- Crafted under the direction of early mint figures such as Thomas Jefferson and David Rittenhouse, possibly observed by President George Washington.
- Each surviving Birch Cent offers a tangible connection to the nation’s founding era and Enlightenment values.
The discovery of the 1792 Birch Cent, valued at $10.1 million, in an old trunk is a once-in-a-lifetime find. With its unmatched rarity and historical significance, this coin serves as a powerful reminder of America’s origins.
Whether it enters a museum or becomes the centerpiece of a record-breaking auction, this remarkable find will be studied and celebrated for generations to come.
FAQs
What makes the 1792 Birch Cent so rare and valuable?
Only about 10 prototypes exist, and given their age and historical importance, any well-preserved piece is a numismatic treasure worth millions.
Who is Robert Birch?
Robert (or William) Birch was the engraver behind this early cent design, credited with shaping the nation’s first coinage aesthetic .
Could this coin set another record at auction?
Absolutely. Previous top sales reached $2.6 million in 2015, and this one is already attracting $10+ million offers, likely setting a new benchmark.
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