The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the most legendary coins in the history of American numismatics. Its rare and enigmatic nature has made it a symbol of extreme scarcity, captivating the imaginations of collectors worldwide. With only five known specimens, the coin has achieved iconic status, and its value reached an astounding $5 million when one was sold in 2007, solidifying its place as one of the most coveted coins ever.
In this article, we explore the fascinating tale of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, shedding light on its mysterious origins, notable sales, and why it remains an unparalleled gem in the world of numismatics.
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 | Discovered in 2003 after being lost for decades. |
| Norweb Specimen | Smithsonian Institution | Part of the National Numismatic Collection. |
| McDermott Specimen | American Numismatic Association Museum | Shows signs of circulation; donated in 1989. |
The Mysterious Origins of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The Liberty Head nickel, designed by Charles E. Barber, was minted from 1883 to 1912. In 1913, the U.S. Mint introduced the Buffalo Nickel, retiring the Liberty Head design. However, in an astonishing twist, five 1913 Liberty Head Nickels were struck, likely without proper authorization.
These coins first came to light in 1920, when Samuel W. Brown, a former Mint employee, revealed them to the public. Their appearance sparked widespread speculation and debate. Were they secretly minted for personal profit, or were they unauthorized prototypes? Their extreme rarity immediately placed them at the center of numismatic fascination.
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel: A $5 Million Treasure
Each of the five surviving 1913 Liberty Head Nickels has a unique history that adds to its intrigue:
- The Eliasberg Specimen Known as the finest example, this coin earned a Proof-66 grade for its near-perfect condition. It became a standout piece in Louis E. Eliasberg’s renowned collection and shattered records when it sold for $5 million in 2007.
- The Olsen Specimen Famous for its appearance in a 1973 episode of Hawaii Five-O, the Olsen Specimen has passed through many notable hands. It fetched $3.7 million in 2010, further cementing its value.
- The Walton Specimen The Walton Specimen’s tale reads like a mystery novel. After being lost for years and misidentified, it was rediscovered and authenticated in 2003, reigniting the public’s fascination with the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel.
- The Norweb Specimen Housed in the Smithsonian Institution, the Norweb Specimen is an invaluable piece of American history, part of the National Numismatic Collection. Unlike others, its value lies in its educational and historical significance rather than its sale price.
- The McDermott Specimen This nickel stands apart because it shows signs of actual circulation. The only coin to have been used in everyday transactions, it was donated to the American Numismatic Association Museum in 1989.
What Makes the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel So Valuable?
The extreme value of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is due to a combination of factors:
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- Unmatched Rarity: With only five confirmed specimens, it is one of the rarest coins in U.S. history.
- Historical Mystery: The unanswered questions surrounding its creation only enhance its allure. Who was responsible for its minting, and why?
- Famous Provenance: The ownership histories of these coins, including collectors like Louis E. Eliasberg, have added prestige.
- Superb Condition: Coins like the Eliasberg Specimen, which was graded Proof-66, demonstrate exceptional craftsmanship and preservation.
A Look at Notable Sales
The sales history of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel reflects its growing value and demand:
- 1996: The Eliasberg Specimen made history as the first coin to sell for over $1 million, fetching $1.48 million.
- 2005: It was purchased for $4.15 million by Legend Numismatics and Bruce Morelan.
- 2007: A record-breaking sale saw the Eliasberg Specimen go for $5 million to an anonymous buyer.
- 2010: The Olsen Specimen achieved a remarkable $3.7 million in an auction.
The Enduring Legacy of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
Beyond its remarkable monetary value, the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel holds a lasting influence in both the world of numismatics and pop culture. It has appeared in television shows, been displayed in museums, and remains the subject of numerous discussions and debates among collectors. Its mystique has made it the “holy grail” of coin collecting, representing the ultimate in rare and valuable numismatic treasures.
For those lucky enough to own or simply view one of these coins, the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is more than just a coin—it’s a part of America’s rich historical fabric.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
- Why are there only five 1913 Liberty Head Nickels? These coins were likely struck without official approval, possibly for personal use or as experimental prototypes by Mint employees.
- How can I confirm the authenticity of a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel? Expert authentication by services like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) is essential to verify the authenticity of any specimen.
- What makes the Eliasberg Specimen so special? The Eliasberg Specimen is the highest-quality coin, graded Proof-66. Its exceptional condition and connection to collector Louis E. Eliasberg make it the most valuable of the five.
- Have other specimens sold for similar amounts? Yes, the Olsen Specimen sold for $3.7 million in 2010, and other specimens have fetched millions in various auctions.
- Where can I see a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel? The Norweb Specimen is on display at the Smithsonian Institution, while the McDermott Specimen can be viewed at the American Numismatic Association Museum.
Final Thoughts
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel remains a rare and mysterious artifact, standing as a pinnacle of coin collecting. Its scarcity, intriguing history, and extraordinary auction prices have solidified its status as a numismatic treasure. For collectors and enthusiasts alike, the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel continues to be a symbol of wonder and an emblem of America’s numismatic heritage.