A single gold coin, donated by an anonymous widow to GracePoint Church in Valparaiso, Indiana, sold for an astonishing $517,000 at auction, securing a new home for the congregation just in time to meet a critical financial deadline. This rare 1866 Liberty Head Double Eagle, one of only 10 known to exist, transformed from a personal burden into a blessing that’s inspiring people across the U.S.
Discover the uplifting story behind this remarkable coin, its powerful journey, and the lives it’s touching today. Ideal for readers who appreciate stories of faith, giving, or rare coins, this account is sure to inspire!
The Widow’s Generous Gift
A woman who chose to remain unnamed donated a rare gold coin to GracePoint Church in Valparaiso, Indiana, with the hope it would serve as “seed money” to help them secure a building. Since launching in 2009, the church had been meeting in a local school, and they were racing against time to find a permanent home. The coin was auctioned by Heritage Auctions in Schaumburg, Illinois, where it fetched $517,000—just what was needed to meet the church’s financial goal.
Pastor Ben Lamb described the coin as “an incredible gift in God’s story,” sharing how it came after years of hardship for the widow. The church was stunned by the coin’s worth and saw it as nothing short of miraculous.
The Coin’s Remarkable History
The donated piece was an 1866 Liberty Head Double Eagle, a $20 gold coin featuring the motto “In God We Trust.” With just 10 known examples, it’s a rarity among collectors. The coin carried emotional weight for the widow, as it was the very first rare coin purchased by her late husband, who passed away 14 years ago.
A Dramatic Past
Four years ago, the widow endured a terrifying break-in when four intruders stormed her home to steal the coin. Thanks to a quick-thinking neighbor, she and the coin were unharmed, but the incident left her emotionally burdened. By donating the coin to the church, she found relief and purpose, turning a traumatic memory into a selfless act of giving.
Why Is the 1866 Liberty Head Double Eagle So Valuable?
The $517,000 auction price reflects a combination of its rarity, condition, and historical context. Here’s what makes it exceptional:
- Extremely Rare: Only 10 known to exist.
- Historic Significance: Minted just after the Civil War, it bears the “In God We Trust” motto.
- Well-Preserved: Its excellent condition increases collector interest.
- Personal Story: A compelling backstory added emotional and financial value.
Sarah Miller of Heritage Auctions originally estimated it would bring in at least $300,000. Competitive bidding pushed the final price much higher.
Coin Details Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Name | 1866 Liberty Head Double Eagle |
| Minted | 1866 |
| Rarity | Only 10 known examples |
| Material | Gold |
| Face Value | $20 |
| Auction Value | $517,000 |
| Special Feature | “In God We Trust” inscription |
How the Auction Helped the Church
Before the auction even began, Heritage Auctions supported the church by advancing $150,000 to help them stay within their financial timeline. The successful $517,000 sale enabled GracePoint Church to purchase a permanent facility, ending over a decade of renting school space. The new building will now serve as a hub for worship, outreach, and community service.
Pastor Lamb reflected on the timely nature of the gift, noting how the church placed its trust in both God and the coin’s message—“In God We Trust”—and their prayers were answered just in time.
A Story of Faith and Generosity
This donation goes beyond money—it symbolizes unwavering faith and heartfelt generosity. The widow, once burdened by the coin’s memories, chose to let go and in doing so brought hope to an entire congregation. Pastor Lamb believes this is a divine story, where sorrow gave way to blessings.
People across the country are moved by this act, realizing that giving—whether large or small—has the power to transform lives. It’s a beautiful reminder that even one selfless decision can uplift a community.
Ways to Support Your Community
- Donate to churches, nonprofits, or causes that matter to you.
- Offer your time or talents to support local initiatives.
- Share positive stories to encourage others to give.
- Start small—every contribution counts.
Bottom Line: A Coin That Changed Lives
The sale of the 1866 Liberty Head Double Eagle is not just a record-breaking transaction—it’s a profound tale of resilience, faith, and kindness. From surviving a violent home invasion to helping a church secure its future, this coin’s story is unforgettable. For collectors, it’s a historical gem; for GracePoint Church, it’s a miracle. Let this widow’s generosity remind us all—great change can come from a single act of giving.
FAQs
Q1: Why is the 1866 Liberty Head Double Eagle so rare?
Only 10 known examples exist today, making it extremely valuable to collectors.
Q2: What was the purpose of the donation?
The widow donated the coin to help GracePoint Church buy a permanent building.
Q3: How much did the coin sell for at auction?
It sold for $517,000 at a Heritage Auctions event.
Q4: What made this coin extra meaningful?
It was the first rare coin purchased by the widow’s late husband, carrying deep emotional value.
Patricia is a dedicated finance content writer specializing in personal finance, budgeting, investing, and financial planning. With a passion for making money matters easy to understand, she crafts well-researched, reader-friendly content that helps individuals take control of their financial future.