Let’s talk about one of the most talked-about “ghost coins” in U.S. history—the elusive 1964-D Peace Dollar. It’s the kind of coin that feels like it belongs in a Nicolas Cage movie: minted, hidden, destroyed (allegedly), and possibly waiting to break all kinds of records if it ever surfaces.
Collectors know about the 1933 Double Eagle, right? That coin made headlines in 2021 when one specimen sold at auction for a jaw-dropping $18.9 million. But what if I told you there’s a coin that could theoretically beat that price?
That’s where the 1964-D Peace Dollar comes in—wrapped in mystery, legal drama, and whispers of conspiracy.
What Is the 1964-D Peace Dollar?
Here’s the thing: in 1964, the U.S. Mint decided to bring back the Peace Dollar (originally minted from 1921 to 1935). They even created over 300,000 coins—316,076, to be exact—struck at the Denver Mint. But none of them were ever officially released.
Why? Political pressure, skyrocketing silver prices, and pure collector frenzy. The Mint claimed they were all melted down. But the lore says otherwise.
Imagine a coin that was never officially issued, yet was fully minted and potentially escaped destruction. Now imagine if just one of those coins ever hit the open market. We’re talking millions, possibly tens of millions—more than that famous 1933 Double Eagle.
The Coin That Shouldn’t Exist
Here’s where the story gets juicy. In the middle of a national coin shortage and a financial tug-of-war over silver content, the U.S. Treasury decided to mint these dollar coins, likely as a political bargaining chip.
C. Douglas Dillon, Treasury Secretary at the time (who would be 114 years old in 2025 if still alive), approved the project. But as silver prices soared and public outcry grew, Congress hit the brakes—fast. The Mint Director back then, Eva Adams, insisted they were just test coins and never meant for circulation.
And so, on May 25, 1965, just one day after the coins were struck, Congress repealed the law that allowed their minting. Boom—gone. Or so they said.
Rumors, Rewards, and Hidden Treasures
Over the years, rumors have swirled about employees sneaking a few coins out, or one winding up in President Lyndon B. Johnson’s estate (he’d be 117 in 2025, by the way). No hard proof ever surfaced.
But that hasn’t stopped people from trying. In 2013, the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) offered a $10,000 reward just to see a legitimate 1964-D Peace Dollar. As of 2025, no one has claimed it.
Think about that. A $10,000 reward just for showing a coin that could be confiscated on sight by the government if proven real. That’s how big this mystery is.
Could It Break the $18.9 Million Record?
Absolutely.
If a legit 1964-D Peace Dollar came to light and somehow dodged legal obstacles (like being found overseas or acquired under unusual circumstances), it could easily beat the 1933 Double Eagle’s record. Some numismatists even say it could go north of $20 million, given the rarity, controversy, and collector demand.
And here’s the twist—because the coin was never officially “monetized,” it’s still considered government property. So even if someone finds it, owning it legally could lead to a court battle. That’s exactly what happened with the 1933 Double Eagles, many of which were confiscated.
What About That Lincoln Wheat Penny Valued at $18.9 Million?
Yes, that’s right—a 1943 bronze Lincoln Wheat penny reportedly fetched $18.9 million, the same number as the Double Eagle. While that value is widely debated and somewhat sensationalized, it only adds to the context: rare U.S. coins can fetch wild money. Especially if they have a good backstory—and few have a tale quite like the 1964-D Peace Dollar.
Where Could It Be?
Some think it could be overseas, hiding in a private European collection. Others believe it’s in the U.S., stashed away in a safe deposit box with a family that doesn’t fully realize what they have.
A wild twist? In 1972, a numismatic newsletter reported some coins had made it into private hands—just as the seven-year statute of limitations would have expired. Coincidence? You decide.
Final Thoughts: Myth, Treasure, or Both?
The 1964-D Peace Dollar is one of those historical rabbit holes where fact and legend blur. Could one be sitting in a dusty attic? Or maybe already melted, its story now just numismatic folklore?
Whatever the truth is, the legend is alive. And if that coin does surface someday, you’ll hear about it—because it might just become the most valuable coin ever sold.
Until then, happy hunting. And check those old collections—you never know what you’ve got.
