A strange coin marked $20,000 with a twisted motto has confused collectors for decades. Known as the POCA Coin, this unusual 1992 token sits somewhere between political satire, underground art, and experimental currency.
In this guide, we break down what the POCA coin is, how to identify it, and why collectors are now paying real money for it.
Watch Before You Read (Recommended)
Before reading, watch Coin Teacher’s video below 
He explains the mystery and shows a real example of this controversial token.
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What Is the $20,000 POCA Coin?
The POCA coin appeared in 1992 and features a bold $20,000 denomination and the altered motto “B-PLURIBUS UNUM.”
It is not legal tender, but a mysterious exonumia piece that blends politics, satire, and alternative currency design.
Despite its unusual origin, the POCA coin has become a collectible curiosity with rising demand.
How to Identify a Real POCA Coin (Step-by-Step)
Obverse (Front) Features
Look for these markings:
- Bold “$20,000” denomination
- Dual 1992 dates
- “POCA” text appearing twice
- “LIBERTY” inscription
Reverse (Back) Features
Check the reverse side for:
- Parody motto “B-PLURIBUS UNUM”
- Additional “POCA” marking
- “WE CAN” slogan
These strange inscriptions are what make the coin instantly recognizable.
3 Theories Behind the POCA Coin’s Origin
Experts still debate where this coin came from. Here are the most widely accepted theories:
Political Satire (Most Likely)
- Created during the 1992 U.S. presidential election
- “POCA” may reference Perot Our Choice America
- The $20,000 value could symbolize national debt concerns
Counterculture Art Project
- Possibly linked to underground art movements of the 1990s
- Similar to alternative money artworks by conceptual artists
- Rumored to have circulated at early Burning Man events
Private Mint Experiment
- Could be a test strike from a private Nevada mint
- Dual 1992 dates suggest experimental dies or errors
POCA Coin Value Guide (2024–2025)
Even though it’s not real money, collectors are paying for it.
| Grade | Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| MS-70 | Perfect condition | $150 – $300 |
| AU-55 | Light handling | $75 – $125 |
| XF-40 | Moderate wear | $40 – $70 |
Recent Sales
- 2023 Heritage Auction: $225 (MS-63)
- 2024 Private sale: $650 for a 3-coin set
How to Spot Fake POCA Coins
Due to rising interest, fake versions exist. Use this checklist:
Genuine POCA Coin Specs
- Weight: 8.75g ±0.15g
- Diameter: 26.5 mm
- Reeded edge: 12 grooves per inch
- Metal: 85% copper, 10% zinc, 5% nickel
Red Flags for Fakes
- Too light (7.5–8.0g)
- Smooth or poorly cut edges
- Blurry engraving or soft lettering
Investment Outlook
The POCA coin has seen steady collector interest with roughly 18% annual growth from 2020–2024. Experts estimate 2,500–3,000 genuine pieces exist today.
Popular collector groups:
- 1990s nostalgia collectors
- Political memorabilia enthusiasts
- Alternative currency investors
Where to Buy or Sell a POCA Coin
If you own one or want to find one:
- Stack’s Bowers alternative numismatics auctions
- Collector communities like Numista or Reddit exonumia forums
- Trade shows and specialty counterculture events
Preservation Tips
Protect your POCA coin’s value:
- Store in Saflip holders with silica gel (40–45% humidity)
- Avoid polishing — only rinse gently with distilled water
- Handle by the edges in a climate-controlled environment
Exonumia Insight
(Replacement for “Final Thoughts”)
The POCA coin remains one of the strangest pieces of modern exonumia. Whether political satire, underground art, or experimental currency, its mystery fuels collector demand. As pop-culture artifacts gain value, this token could become a niche classic in alternative numismatics.
