1913 Liberty Head Nickel – The Coin of Controversy: Valued at Over $10 Million
Few coins stir as much intrigue and desire among collectors as the 1913 Liberty Head nickel. With only five known to exist, these nickels are more than just rare—they’re cloaked in mystery, historical significance, and a bit of controversy.
Today, a single 1913 Liberty Head nickel can fetch over $10 million at auction, making it one of the most valuable and sought-after coins in the world. But why is this nickel so unique? Let’s dive into the backstory, the incredible value, and the fascinating details surrounding this rare treasure.
The Origins of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, the Liberty Head nickel was a staple of U.S. currency. Designed by Charles E. Barber, the coin featured Lady Liberty on the obverse (front) and a Roman numeral “V” on the reverse to signify its five-cent denomination.
This design was widely circulated until 1912, after which it was replaced by the Buffalo nickel, marking an end to the Liberty Head series—at least, it was supposed to.
In a twist that would spark over a century of fascination, five Liberty Head nickels dated 1913 mysteriously appeared. It’s believed that these coins were minted outside the usual production schedule, possibly by a U.S. Mint employee named Samuel W. Brown.
While the Buffalo nickel was in full production, Brown’s 1913 Liberty Heads were quietly struck and later brought to the attention of collectors, creating a legend that would endure for generations.
Why Only Five?
The 1913 Liberty Head nickel was never an official issue of the U.S. Mint, which explains why there are only five known specimens. No records confirm the reason these coins were produced, adding to their allure. It’s assumed that Brown, or another Mint employee, struck the coins privately and later revealed them to the numismatic community.
Collectors have searched tirelessly for more, but only these five coins have ever surfaced. Their rarity, combined with the secretive origins, has helped solidify their reputation as prized collector’s items, and they have passed through the hands of some of the world’s most famous collectors, gaining fame and value with each transfer.
The Five Famous Specimens
Each of the five known 1913 Liberty Head nickels has a unique nickname and an equally unique backstory:
- The Eliasberg Specimen – Known for its pristine condition, this specimen is considered the finest of the five, with a nearly perfect surface and luster.
- The Olsen Specimen – This coin has made headlines multiple times, most notably for appearing on the popular TV show Hawaii Five-O.
- The Walton Specimen – Thought to be lost for decades after a car accident in 1962, it resurfaced in 2003, rekindling interest and adding to its mystique.
- The Norweb Specimen – Recognized for its excellent condition and lustrous appearance, this specimen has also been in prestigious collections.
- The McDermott Specimen – With a slight bit of wear, this coin has a unique finish and was once owned by an eccentric collector who enjoyed carrying it as a pocket piece.
These coins each have a storied history, and the mystery surrounding them only adds to their value. Over the years, they’ve become true legends, attracting significant attention and astronomical price tags.
What Drives the Value of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel?
The 1913 Liberty Head nickel is valuable for several reasons, with rarity being the biggest factor. Since only five exist, each of them holds a unique place in numismatic history. Beyond scarcity, the stories behind each coin, including their mysterious creation and the collectors who have owned them, contribute to their allure.
The coins are not only rare but also hold a controversial status because of their unauthorized minting. Their journey through various collections, each with its own background, enhances their historical and financial value. While one of these nickels sold for $4.56 million in 2018, experts estimate that any one of the five specimens could break the $10 million mark at auction today.
Could You Own a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel?
Owning one of these nickels is a dream that only the wealthiest collectors can realize. The coins are often held in private collections or museums, where they are carefully preserved. However, numismatists still marvel at the thought that another specimen could potentially be discovered, although the odds are slim.
For the average collector, encountering a 1913 Liberty Head nickel is unlikely. But the stories and fascination around this coin make it a captivating part of American history. From its mysterious origins to its multimillion-dollar price tag, the 1913 Liberty Head nickel is the ultimate symbol of rarity and intrigue in the world of coin collecting.
FAQs
Q1. How many 1913 Liberty Head nickels exist?
Only five are known to exist, and they are among the rarest coins in the world.
Q2. Why is the 1913 Liberty Head nickel so valuable?
Its value is due to its rarity, historical intrigue, and the controversy over its unauthorized production. Each coin’s unique story and provenance also drive up its value.
Q3. Was the 1913 Liberty Head nickel minted legally?
No, it wasn’t part of the official Mint release. It’s widely believed that an employee of the U.S. Mint produced the coins outside of the usual schedule.
Q4. How much is a 1913 Liberty Head nickel worth?
One of these nickels could easily exceed $10 million at auction, with each specimen’s value depending on its condition and provenance.
Q5. Where can I see a 1913 Liberty Head nickel?
Some of these coins are on display in private collections or museums, though they rarely appear publicly due to their immense value.
Q6. Could there be more than five of these coins?
While only five have been confirmed, numismatists are always on the lookout. It’s unlikely, but possible, that another could be discovered.
Q7. What should I do if I think I have a 1913 Liberty Head nickel?
If you believe you’ve found a 1913 Liberty Head nickel, consult a professional coin grading service for verification, as it would be an extraordinary discovery.
