10 Rare Coins From Defunct Countries Collectors Still Chase Today
Some of the most interesting coins to collect are those from defunct countries, as they offer a snapshot of history. These coins are often tied to unique events, empires, or cultures that no longer exist. As a result, they remain highly sought after by collectors around the world. Whether due to their historical importance or artistic appeal, these coins are treasures in the numismatic world. Next time you come across one, you might just be holding a rare piece of history.
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1875-1918 Russian Empire 5 Rubles
The 5 Rubles coin from the Russian Empire, minted between 1875 and 1918, is a valuable piece of history. Featuring the image of Tsar Nicholas II, this coin was used in the vast territories that stretched across Europe and Asia before the Russian Revolution. Today, the value of this coin can range from $200 to $500, depending on condition and rarity. The historical significance of this coin makes it particularly attractive to collectors interested in the late imperial period of Russia.
Collectors are drawn to this coin because of its connection to the Russian monarchy and the major political changes of the 20th century. As one of the last coins minted before the collapse of the Russian Empire, it represents an important moment in history. The gold version of this coin is especially valuable and remains a sought-after collectible.
1965-1973 South Vietnam 10 Dong
The 10 Dong coin from South Vietnam, minted between 1965 and 1973, is a notable item from a country that no longer exists. This coin was used during the Vietnam War, a period of intense conflict and political change. Currently, the value of the coin is around $10 to $50, depending on condition. Collectors are interested in this coin because it represents a time before the reunification of Vietnam under communist rule.
The 10 Dong coin is often sought after due to its connection to the history of the Vietnam War and the brief existence of South Vietnam. Its design, which includes images of Vietnamese landmarks, adds to its cultural appeal. Despite being relatively inexpensive, the coin remains a valuable item for collectors of war-era memorabilia.
1972 Czechoslovakia 20 Korun
The 20 Korun coin from Czechoslovakia, minted in 1972, is an intriguing collectible due to its history as part of the country’s final years before the Velvet Revolution. Featuring the image of Czechoslovakian leaders, this coin is valued at $25 to $80. Collectors appreciate this coin because it represents a time of significant political change in Central Europe. The coin’s design and historical context make it especially popular among those interested in European numismatics.
The end of Czechoslovakia as a unified country in 1992 only increased interest in items from the pre-Velvet Revolution era. The 20 Korun coin remains a desirable item for collectors seeking to own a piece of Czechoslovakian history. Its relatively low value compared to other coins from defunct countries makes it accessible to a wider audience.
1949-1991 Soviet Union 1 Ruble
The 1 Ruble coin from the Soviet Union, minted between 1949 and 1991, is one of the most iconic coins from the now-defunct superpower. Featuring the hammer and sickle emblem, this coin reflects the legacy of the Soviet state. Its market value varies, typically ranging from $20 to $100 depending on the year and condition. Collectors seek this coin due to its connection to the history of the USSR and the Cold War era.
The 1 Ruble coin remains one of the most widely collected coins from the Soviet period, with many fans interested in coins from the late 20th century. Its value is bolstered by the Soviet Union’s eventual collapse, making it a significant historical item. The coin’s design and its place in global history continue to make it a desirable collectible.
1927 Kingdom of Italy 5 Lira
The 5 Lira coin from the Kingdom of Italy, minted in 1927, is a fascinating collectible due to the country’s monarchy’s fall and transition into a republic. Featuring the profile of King Victor Emmanuel III, this coin is valued at $50 to $200, depending on condition and rarity. The coin is highly collectible due to its royal design and the significant political changes Italy underwent after World War II.
Collectors are drawn to this coin because of its connection to a monarchy that no longer exists. The intricate design and historical context surrounding the Kingdom of Italy’s collapse make this coin a must-have for those interested in European coins. Despite being relatively affordable, this coin remains a symbol of Italy’s royal past.
1948-1959 British West Indies 25 Cents
The 25 Cents coin from the British West Indies, minted between 1948 and 1959, represents the region before its transition to various independent nations. Featuring the British monarch’s portrait, this coin is valued at $25 to $100. It’s highly collectible due to its connection to the colonial history of the Caribbean. The British West Indies coinage system was replaced as the individual countries became independent, making these coins rare today.
The British West Indies 25 Cents coin is particularly sought after by collectors interested in colonial-era numismatics. Its value has risen over the years due to its limited mintage and the fact that it represents a bygone colonial period. Finding one of these coins in good condition is difficult, making it a prized item for collectors.
1930s Kingdom of Greece 100 Drachma
The 100 Drachma coin from the Kingdom of Greece, minted during the 1930s, is a valuable piece of Greek history. Featuring King George II on one side and ancient Greek symbols on the other, this coin is valued at around $100 to $300. Collectors seek this coin because of its historical ties to Greece’s monarchy, which came to an end in the 1970s.
The 100 Drachma coin is especially prized for its fine details and historical significance. As Greece moved from monarchy to republic, the demand for these coins has grown due to their connection to the royal period. Collectors of European coins and those interested in Greece’s political history continue to search for these rare coins.
1965-1970 Federal Republic of Germany 5 Deutsche Mark
The 5 Deutsche Mark coin from the Federal Republic of Germany, minted between 1965 and 1970, is a highly collectible piece from post-World War II Germany. Featuring the German eagle and other national symbols, this coin has an estimated value of $50 to $150. The coin is prized for its connection to the period before Germany reunified in 1990.
This coin remains valuable due to its historical ties to a divided Germany. Collectors are particularly interested in coins from this era because they represent the country’s rebuilding process. The 5 Deutsche Mark coin was one of the more common coins in circulation during this time, but its historical context makes it desirable for numismatists.
1961-1971 Republic of South Vietnam 1 Dong
The 1 Dong coin from the Republic of South Vietnam, minted between 1961 and 1971, is a symbol of a country that no longer exists. With a value of $20 to $50, this coin is often sought after by those collecting memorabilia from the Vietnam War era. Its design reflects the period of conflict and division in Vietnam, making it an important piece of history.
The 1 Dong coin continues to be searched for by collectors due to its connection to the brief existence of South Vietnam. Despite the country’s fall in 1975, the coin represents a critical chapter in Southeast Asian history. As one of the few surviving coins from the Republic of South Vietnam, it remains a cherished item for collectors of war-era artifacts.
1960-1991 Socialist Republic of Romania 1 Leu
The 1 Leu coin from the Socialist Republic of Romania, minted between 1960 and 1991, reflects the era of communist rule under Nicolae Ceausescu. The coin is valued at $10 to $50, depending on condition. The design of the coin, featuring the Romanian coat of arms, highlights the political themes of the time asnd continues to be in demand among collectors of European history.
Romania’s transition from a socialist republic to its present-day status has made coins like the 1 Leu particularly valuable. Collectors often seek these coins for their connection to a significant period in Romania’s history, just before the fall of communism. The relatively low market value makes it an accessible item for collectors, but its historical significance ensures it remains desirable.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.