The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is a coin that has become a legend in the world of numismatics. With only five surviving examples, this coin has gained legendary status, representing one of the rarest and most valuable treasures in American history. Its mystique grew exponentially in 2007 when one of the nickels sold for an astonishing $5 million, securing its place as one of the most sought-after coins ever.
This article delves into the fascinating story of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, uncovering its mysterious origins, notable sales, and why it continues to be a symbol of unmatched rarity in the coin-collecting world.
Quick Facts About the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
Specimen | Location | Key Details |
---|---|---|
Eliasberg Specimen | Private Collection | Graded Proof-66; sold for $5 million in 2007 |
Olsen Specimen | Private Collection | Featured on Hawaii Five-O; sold for $3.7 million in 2010 |
Walton Specimen | Private Collection | Lost for decades; rediscovered and authenticated in 2003 |
Norweb Specimen | Smithsonian Institution | Part of the National Numismatic Collection |
McDermott Specimen | American Numismatic Association Museum | Displays wear from circulation; donated in 1989 |
A Historical Mystery: The Origins of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The Liberty Head Nickel was designed by Charles E. Barber and was in circulation from 1883 until 1912. By 1913, the U.S. Mint had already phased out the Liberty Head design in favor of the Buffalo Nickel. However, five 1913 Liberty Head Nickels emerged, most likely struck without official permission. Their first public appearance occurred in 1920 when Samuel W. Brown, a former Mint employee, revealed them to the public, sparking widespread curiosity and speculation.
Questions about their creation still abound: Were they secretly struck for personal gain, or were they experimental prototypes? The uncertainty surrounding their origins only added to their allure and led to an immediate surge in demand and fascination among collectors.
The Five 1913 Liberty Head Nickels: A Closer Look
Each of the five known 1913 Liberty Head Nickels has a distinct history, adding layers of intrigue to this already fascinating coin:
- The Eliasberg Specimen
This nickel is considered the finest example known, boasting a grade of Proof-66, indicating its flawless condition. Once part of Louis E. Eliasberg’s prestigious collection, it set a record in 2007 when it sold for $5 million, a milestone that further elevated its value and status in the numismatic world. - The Olsen Specimen
Famous for its appearance in a 1973 episode of Hawaii Five-O, the Olsen Specimen is renowned for its remarkable provenance and historical significance. In 2010, it sold for $3.7 million, proving that its allure extends beyond just its rarity. - The Walton Specimen
The Walton Specimen’s story is akin to a treasure hunt. Lost for decades after being misidentified, it was rediscovered and authenticated in 2003. Its return to the spotlight only intensified the excitement surrounding the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel. - The Norweb Specimen
Housed at the Smithsonian Institution, the Norweb Specimen holds a special place in American history. While it hasn’t been sold, its preservation as part of the National Numismatic Collection makes it a vital educational and historical piece. - The McDermott Specimen
The McDermott Specimen stands out because it has visible wear from circulation, making it the only known specimen that saw everyday use. It was donated to the American Numismatic Association Museum in 1989, where it continues to be an important artifact for numismatics enthusiasts.
Why Is the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel So Valuable?
Several factors contribute to the extraordinary value of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel:
- Unmatched Rarity: With only five known specimens, it is one of the rarest coins ever struck by the U.S. Mint.
- Mystical Origins: The uncertainty surrounding the coin’s creation adds to its historical allure. The question of why and how these coins were made remains unsolved.
- Prestigious Provenance: Coins with a history of ownership by prominent collectors, such as Louis E. Eliasberg, greatly increase their value.
- Exceptional Condition: Specimens like the Eliasberg example, graded Proof-66, demonstrate flawless craftsmanship and preservation.
Notable Sales: Record-Breaking Auctions
The sale history of these rare nickels paints a picture of skyrocketing values and immense collector interest:
- 1996: The Eliasberg Specimen became the first coin to surpass $1 million, fetching $1,485,000.
- 2005: Acquired by Legend Numismatics and Bruce Morelan for $4.15 million.
- 2007: The Eliasberg Specimen sold for a record-breaking $5 million, cementing its status as the most valuable 1913 Liberty Head Nickel.
The Olsen Specimen also achieved remarkable sales, fetching $3.7 million in 2010, reinforcing the fact that all five specimens command extraordinary premiums due to their rarity and historical importance.
The Legacy of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
Beyond its staggering monetary value, the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel holds a lasting legacy in both the world of numismatics and pop culture. It has been featured in television shows, documentaries, and is a focal point in museums and exhibitions. For collectors, it represents the pinnacle of coin collecting—often referred to as the “holy grail” of numismatics.
Owning or even simply viewing a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is like holding a piece of American history in one’s hands, making these coins not just valuable commodities, but priceless historical treasures.