A Historic Coin Worth a Small Fortune Was Designed by Thomas Paine, Research Shows

RARE and historic coins can be interesting works of art — and worth significant cash. While intended to be worth a small amount, one historic coin has turned out to be worth $352,500.

A historic coin, initially intended to be worth a cent, has sold at auction for a staggering $352,500.

This remarkable valuation is largely attributed to the coin’s unique historical design.

As one of the earliest U.S. coins ever minted, dating back to 1792, it holds significant historical importance.

The coin’s distinctive appearance stems from its composition of two different metals, which is quite rare.

Crafted from both copper and silver, the coin features a unique “plug” inserted in the center, enhancing its uncommon and valuable aesthetic.

NO PAINE NO GAIN

The coin’s strange design was the idea of a historical celebrity.

“Recent research… indicates the concept for the unique dual metallic composition of this piece may have originated with famous patriot and essayist Thomas Paine,” according to the auctioning website Heritage Auctions.

Paine believed the added silver would make the coin reach the intended value — one cent.

However, if the coin had been crafted entirely from silver, it would have been excessively heavy.

To address this issue, he devised a compromise solution.

Today, this innovative design is famously recognized as the Silver Center Cent.

“The Silver Center Cent is one of the most famous and iconic issues of American coinage,” the auction listing said. 

“Its historic importance can scarcely be overstated and examples have been prized by collectors since the earliest days of the hobby.”

It was graded a 35 on a scale of 1 to 70.

The coin sold at auction in 2016.

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