The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel holds an esteemed position in the world of rare coins, regarded as one of the most legendary and sought-after specimens in American numismatics. Only five known examples exist, and these elusive coins are coveted for their extreme rarity and immense historical significance. The nickel became even more famous in 2007, when one specimen fetched a remarkable $5 million at auction, cementing its status as one of the most valuable coins in U.S. history.
In this article, we delve into the captivating story of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, exploring its mysterious creation, significant sales, and the reasons behind its ongoing appeal to collectors.
Quick Facts: 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 in 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 | Preserved in the National Numismatic Collection. |
| McDermott Specimen | American Numismatic Association | Displays circulation wear; donated in 1989. |
The Mystery Behind the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The Liberty Head nickel, designed by Charles E. Barber, was originally minted from 1883 to 1912. However, in 1913, the U.S. Mint transitioned to the Buffalo Nickel, officially retiring the Liberty Head design. Despite this, five coins with the 1913 date and the Liberty Head design surfaced, likely produced without official approval.
The coins first came to light in 1920, when Samuel W. Brown, a former Mint employee, revealed their existence. This sparked immediate speculation: Were these coins created as unauthorized prototypes, or were they struck for personal reasons by Mint employees? Regardless of their origin, their extreme rarity and mysterious backstory turned them into a numismatic sensation.
The Five 1913 Liberty Head Nickels: An In-Depth Look
Each of the five 1913 Liberty Head Nickels has a unique history that adds to its intrigue and value:
- The Eliasberg Specimen
Considered the finest example of the coin, the Eliasberg Specimen is graded Proof-66, a designation that attests to its impeccable condition. This coin, once part of the renowned collection of Louis E. Eliasberg, sold for an astounding $5 million in 2007, making it one of the most expensive coins ever sold. - The Olsen Specimen
This coin gained significant fame after being featured in a 1973 episode of Hawaii Five-O. With a rich history of notable owners, the Olsen Specimen fetched $3.7 million in a 2010 sale, underscoring its continued value and appeal. - The Walton Specimen
The Walton Specimen’s journey is one of the most dramatic in numismatic history. After being misidentified and lost for decades, it was rediscovered and authenticated in 2003, further fueling public interest in the rare coin. - The Norweb Specimen
Now housed at the Smithsonian Institution, the Norweb Specimen is part of the National Numismatic Collection. Its value is not tied to its sale price but to its historical and educational importance, making it a priceless artifact in numismatic research. - The McDermott Specimen
Unlike the other specimens, the McDermott Specimen displays signs of wear from circulation, making it the only one of the five to have been used as currency. It is currently displayed at the American Numismatic Association Museum, offering visitors a rare glimpse into this historical treasure.
Why Is the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel So Valuable?
The immense value of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is rooted in a combination of factors:
- Extreme Rarity: With only five confirmed examples in existence, the coin is among the rarest ever produced by the U.S. Mint.
- Historical Enigma: The unknown circumstances surrounding the creation of these coins add to their mystique, making them even more captivating to collectors and historians alike.
- Notable Provenance: The history of ownership by famous numismatists, like Louis E. Eliasberg, further elevates the coins’ desirability.
- Impeccable Condition: Coins like the Eliasberg Specimen, which is graded Proof-66, showcase remarkable preservation and craftsmanship, making them prized by collectors.
The Sales Record of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The sale history of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel has been nothing short of extraordinary, with each transaction setting new records:
सम्बंधित ख़बरें
- 1996: The Eliasberg Specimen became the first 1913 Liberty Head Nickel to sell for over $1 million, fetching $1.485 million at auction.
- 2005: The Eliasberg Specimen was sold for $4.15 million.
- 2007: The coin reached an unprecedented $5 million, a price that remains a record for any Liberty Head Nickel.
- 2010: The Olsen Specimen also sold for a remarkable $3.7 million.
These sales demonstrate the immense value of these coins, with each specimen commanding extraordinary premiums based on its rarity, condition, and provenance.
The Legacy of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
Beyond its financial worth, the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel has become a symbol of the ultimate treasure in coin collecting. Its rarity and mystery have inspired a lasting legacy, making it a coveted prize for numismatists. The coin has been featured in television shows, displayed in museums, and discussed in countless numismatic circles, further solidifying its place in American history.
For coin collectors and enthusiasts, the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel represents the pinnacle of achievement—both as a historical artifact and as a sought-after prize.
FAQs About the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
- Why are there only five 1913 Liberty Head Nickels?
The coins were likely struck without official authorization, possibly for personal use or as experimental prototypes by Mint employees. - How can I verify the authenticity of a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel?
Experts from organizations such as PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) are the most reliable sources for authenticating these rare coins. - What makes the Eliasberg Specimen so special?
The Eliasberg Specimen is the finest known example of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, graded Proof-66, and its historical association with Louis E. Eliasberg adds tremendous value. - Have other specimens sold for similar amounts?
Yes, other specimens, like the Olsen Specimen, have fetched millions at auction, though the Eliasberg Specimen holds the highest price record. - Where can I view a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel?
The Norweb Specimen is displayed at the Smithsonian Institution, while the McDermott Specimen can be seen at the American Numismatic Association Museum.
Conclusion
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel remains a mysterious and rare treasure that continues to captivate numismatists and collectors. Its scarcity, historical intrigue, and extraordinary sales history make it one of the most valuable coins in American history. As a symbol of numismatic excellence, the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel represents the ultimate prize in coin collecting—a true piece of American heritage.
Have you ever encountered the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel? Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments below!