The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel stands as one of the most coveted coins in American numismatics. With only five known specimens, its rarity and mysterious origin have captivated collectors for over a century.
Recently, this legendary coin made headlines by fetching a staggering $4.2 million at auction.
A Coin That Was Never Meant to Exist
In 1913, the U.S. Mint transitioned from the Liberty Head design to the Buffalo nickel. Official records indicate that no Liberty Head nickels were minted that year.
However, five specimens surfaced, leading to speculation that they were struck clandestinely, possibly by Mint employee Samuel W. Brown. Brown later showcased these coins, igniting intrigue and debate about their authenticity.
Record-Breaking Auction Sale
In October 2022, the Walton specimen of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel was sold for $4.2 million to GreatCollections, a renowned auction house.
This sale underscores the coin’s immense value and the fervent interest it continues to generate among collectors.
Detailed Overview of the Five Known Specimens
| Specimen Name | Grade | Notable Features | Last Known Sale Price | Current Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eliasberg | PR66 | Finest known; mirror-like surface | $4.56 million (2018) | Private Collection |
| Olsen | PR64 | Featured in “Hawaii Five-O”; owned by King Farouk | $3.7 million (2010) | Private Collection |
| Walton | PR63 | Lost for decades; authenticated in 2003 | $4.2 million (2022) | GreatCollections |
| Norweb | PR64 | Displayed at Smithsonian Institution | Not for sale | Smithsonian Institution |
| McDermott | PR55 | Only circulated specimen; exhibits wear | Not for sale | American Numismatic Association Museum |
Identifying a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
To determine if you possess this rare coin, look for the following characteristics:
- Obverse (Front): Features Lady Liberty facing left, adorned with a coronet inscribed with “LIBERTY”.
- Reverse (Back): Displays a Roman numeral “V” encircled by a wreath.
- Date: Clearly marked as “1913”.
Given the coin’s rarity, authentication by professional grading services like PCGS or NGC is essential.
READ MORE: This Buffalo Nickel Pulled From a Junk Drawer Just Made Auction History
The Intriguing Tale of the Walton Specimen
The Walton specimen boasts a fascinating history. After the death of collector George O. Walton in 1962, the coin was mistakenly deemed counterfeit and stored away by his family.
It wasn’t until 2003 that experts authenticated it as one of the original five specimens. Its recent sale for $4.2 million highlights its significance in the numismatic world.
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel remains a symbol of rarity and intrigue in coin collecting. Its recent record-breaking sale reinforces its status as a treasured artifact. For collectors and enthusiasts, it represents the pinnacle of numismatic achievement.
FAQs
How many 1913 Liberty Head Nickels exist?
Only five specimens are known to exist.
What is the highest price a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel has sold for?
The Eliasberg specimen sold for $4.56 million in 2018.
How can I authenticate a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel?
Consult professional grading services like PCGS or NGC for authentication.