In a remarkable turn of events, a rare gold coin donated to GracePoint Church in Valparaiso, Indiana, fetched an astonishing $517,000 at auction.
This unexpected windfall not only secured the church’s financial future but also highlighted the enduring value of historical artifacts.
The Coin’s Origins
The coin in question is an 1866 Liberty Head Double Eagle, a $20 gold piece featuring the motto “In God We Trust.” Minted during a period of significant national turmoil, this coin is one of only 10 known surviving examples of its kind.
A Widow’s Generous Donation
The coin was donated anonymously by a widow whose late husband had purchased it in 1993. She had kept the coin as a cherished memento until it became a source of distress following a home invasion four years prior.
Seeking peace, she decided to donate the coin to the church, hoping it would serve as “seed money” for their building fund.
Auction Details
The coin was sold at a public auction conducted by Heritage Auctions in Schaumburg, Illinois. The bidding was intense, with the final price surpassing the pre-auction estimate of $300,000. The winning bidder’s identity remains undisclosed.
Impact on GracePoint Church
Before the auction, Heritage Auctions advanced $150,000 to GracePoint Church to ensure they could meet a critical financial deadline for their building project.
The final sale price provided the church with the necessary funds to secure a permanent location, ending over a decade of holding services in an elementary school.
Coin Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Type | 1866 Liberty Head Double Eagle |
| Minted | 1866 |
| Material | Gold |
| Face Value | $20 |
| Rarity | One of only 10 known surviving examples |
| Auction Price | $517,000 |
| Auction House | Heritage Auctions |
| Auction Location | Schaumburg, Illinois |
| Winning Bidder | Not disclosed |
Historical Significance
The 1866 Liberty Head Double Eagle is notable for being one of the first U.S. coins to bear the motto “In God We Trust,” a phrase that would become a hallmark of American currency. Its rarity and historical context make it a coveted item among collectors.
Community Reaction
The congregation at GracePoint Church was overwhelmed by the generosity of the donor and the unexpected financial blessing. Pastor Ben Lamb described the donation as “an incredible gift in God’s story,” emphasizing the faith and trust that the church placed in divine providence.
This story serves as a testament to the unexpected ways in which history, faith, and generosity can intersect. A single coin, steeped in history and personal significance, has not only preserved a piece of American heritage but also ensured the future of a community’s place of worship.
FAQs
Why is the 1866 Liberty Head Double Eagle coin so rare?
Only 10 known examples of this coin exist, making it extremely rare and valuable to collectors.
What was the purpose of the donation to GracePoint Church?
The widow donated the coin to help the church secure a permanent building, ending their reliance on temporary spaces.
How did the auction proceeds benefit the church?
The funds from the auction enabled the church to meet a critical financial deadline, securing a permanent location for their services.