1913 Liberty Head Nickel – For coin collectors and enthusiasts, few coins evoke the same level of fascination, mystery, and excitement as the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel. With only five known examples in existence, this elusive coin has become the crown jewel of American numismatics. In recent years, one of these rare nickels sold for an astonishing $4.5 million, making headlines and renewing interest in what many consider the “Holy Grail” of U.S. coins. But what makes this coin so valuable, and how did it become so rare?
Let’s dive deep into the history, features, market value, and legend surrounding the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel—and find out why this small coin is worth millions.
The Unlikely Origins of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
Though the U.S. Mint officially stopped producing Liberty Head nickels in 1912, five mysterious coins bearing the 1913 date were somehow struck and never recorded in mint logs. These unauthorized coins were never meant to exist—and yet they did.
Key Background Facts:
- Mint Year: 1913 (unauthorized production)
- Mint Location: Likely Philadelphia Mint
- Design: Liberty Head obverse, Roman numeral “V” reverse
- Composition: 75% copper, 25% nickel
- Weight: 5 grams
- Edge: Plain
- Number Known: Only 5 confirmed pieces
It’s believed that a Mint employee named Samuel W. Brown may have played a key role in their creation and later promoted their discovery at a 1920 coin convention.
Where Are the Five Nickels Today?
Only five specimens of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel are confirmed to exist, and each has its own nickname and unique backstory.
| Name/Nickname | Current Location | Owner (Last Known) | Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eliasberg Specimen | Private collection | Sold for $5 million (2018) | Proof-66 | $5,000,000+ |
| Olsen Specimen | On display at the ANA Money Museum | Donated by Dwight Manley | Proof-64 | $4,500,000+ |
| Walton Specimen | Returned to family; verified in 2003 | Walton family | Proof-63 | $3,500,000+ |
| Norweb Specimen | Smithsonian Institution, Washington DC | U.S. National Collection | Proof-64 | Not for sale |
| McDermott Specimen | American Numismatic Association | Formerly held by J.V. McDermott | Proof-55 | $2,500,000+ |
These coins are so rare that collectors worldwide know them by name, and their appearances at auctions or museums create a media frenzy.
Why Is the 1913 Liberty Nickel So Valuable?
The coin’s sky-high valuation is not just about its age—it’s about its story, rarity, and legal mystique. Here are the top reasons behind its multi-million-dollar price tag:
1. Extremely Low Mintage
- Only 5 known examples exist globally.
- They were never officially authorized by the U.S. Mint.
2. Mystery and Controversy
- Mint records show no 1913 Liberty nickels were struck.
- The coins likely came from inside sources, making them “unofficial” but highly legal today.
3. Provenance
- Each coin has a long chain of ownership, including famous collectors and celebrities.
- For example, one coin was once owned by King Farouk of Egypt.
4. Historical and Cultural Value
- Featured in movies, exhibits, and books.
- A centerpiece at many coin shows.
5. Auction Hype
- Bidding wars and high-profile marketing boost its value.
- Rare coin funds and investors also enter the race.
Major Auctions and Sales Over the Years
Here are some notable transactions that propelled the 1913 Liberty Nickel into fame:
| Year | Coin Specimen | Auction House | Final Sale Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1972 | Olsen Specimen | Stack’s Bowers | $100,000 |
| 2003 | Walton Specimen (rediscovered) | Heritage Auctions | $3,000,000 |
| 2013 | Walton Specimen | Heritage Auctions | $3,172,500 |
| 2018 | Eliasberg Specimen | Private Sale | $5,000,000 |
Each auction pushes the coin further into financial and historical legend.
How to Authenticate a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
If you ever stumble upon what looks like a 1913 Liberty Nickel, here’s what experts check for authenticity:
Physical Checks
- Weight: 5 grams
- Diameter: 21.2 mm
- Metal Composition: 75% copper, 25% nickel
- Plain edge with no reeding
Visual Details
- Date “1913” must match the original font style.
- Liberty’s hair and coronet should show crisp detail.
- Back must feature a large “V” with accurate alignment and spacing.
Professional Verification
- Submit to PCGS or NGC for certified grading.
- Use X-ray spectroscopy for metal confirmation.
- Seek provenance records or auction history.
Could You Own One Someday?
While it’s highly unlikely for someone to casually find a real 1913 Liberty Nickel in circulation, coin collecting still holds surprises. Rare finds occasionally appear in estate sales, safe boxes, or old collections. That’s why knowing what to look for can pay off.
You can also:
- Visit a coin show or ANA Museum to view one.
- Invest in collectible coins with reputable dealers.
- Study rare coin history to understand market trends.
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel isn’t just a coin—it’s a story. With just five in the world, each piece represents a combination of art, history, controversy, and high finance. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just discovering the world of rare currency, this nickel captures the imagination in ways few other coins can. If you ever come across an old nickel, take a second look. You might just be holding a piece of American treasure worth millions.
FAQs
Q1. How many 1913 Liberty Head Nickels exist today?
Only five authentic examples are known to exist.
Q2. Why is the 1913 Liberty Nickel illegal or controversial?
It wasn’t officially authorized by the U.S. Mint, though it’s now legal to own and sell.
Q3. Can I find a 1913 Liberty Nickel in circulation?
Highly unlikely—it’s one of the rarest coins in U.S. history.
Q4. What’s the highest price one has sold for?
The Eliasberg specimen reportedly sold for $5 million in 2018.
Q5. Where can I see a 1913 Liberty Nickel in person?
You can visit the Smithsonian Institution or the ANA Money Museum in Colorado.
