The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel: A Rare $5 Million Treasure Worth Discovering

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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

SpecimenLocationKey Details
Eliasberg SpecimenPrivate CollectionGraded Proof-66; sold for $5 million in 2007.
Olsen SpecimenPrivate CollectionFeatured in Hawaii Five-O; sold for $3.7 million in 2010.
Walton SpecimenPrivate CollectionDiscovered in 2003 after being lost for decades.
Norweb SpecimenSmithsonian InstitutionPart of the National Numismatic Collection.
McDermott SpecimenAmerican Numismatic Association MuseumShows 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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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