The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel stands as one of the most legendary and valuable coins in American numismatic history. Shrouded in mystery, rarity, and intrigue, this iconic five-cent piece has captivated collectors, historians, and investors for over a century. With only a handful of known examples in existence, the coin has achieved near-mythical status and routinely commands multi-million-dollar prices at auction.
Far more than a simple coin, the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel represents a fascinating intersection of history, rarity, and exclusivity—making it one of the most coveted collectibles in the world.
Key Highlights
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is defined by several extraordinary characteristics:
- Only five confirmed examples known worldwide
- Unauthorized or unofficial origin at the U.S. Mint
- One of the most valuable coins ever produced in America
- Strong association with famous collectors and museums
- Multiple appearances in major auctions and exhibitions
- Recognized globally as a numismatic masterpiece
Its combination of mystery and scarcity is unmatched in U.S. coinage.
Historical Background
The Liberty Head Nickel design officially ended production in 1912, replaced by the Buffalo Nickel in 1913. Despite this, five Liberty Head Nickels dated 1913 mysteriously surfaced years later.
Key historical points include:
- No official Mint records authorizing 1913 Liberty Head Nickels
- Coins believed to have been struck covertly at the Philadelphia Mint
- First publicly revealed in 1920
- Long suspected connection to Mint employee Samuel Brown
- Each coin carefully traced and documented over time
This unusual origin story fuels both intrigue and value.
Design and Appearance
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel features classic late-19th-century American coin artistry.
Design elements include:
- Obverse featuring Lady Liberty wearing a coronet
- Thirteen stars representing the original colonies
- Reverse depicting a Roman numeral “V” for five cents
- Surrounding wreath and bold inscriptions
- Traditional copper-nickel composition
Its elegant yet understated design contrasts sharply with its extraordinary worth.
Known Specimens
Only five authentic 1913 Liberty Head Nickels are confirmed to exist, each with a unique history and pedigree.
The known examples include:
- Eliasberg Specimen, regarded as the finest known
- Olsen Specimen, once owned by King Farouk of Egypt
- Norweb Specimen, displayed at the Smithsonian
- Walton Specimen, famously rediscovered after decades
- McDermott Specimen, the only circulated example
Each coin has become a historic artifact in its own right.
Value and Auction Records
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is among the most expensive coins ever sold.
Notable valuation highlights include:
- Prices exceeding $4 million at major auctions
- One specimen sold for over $5 million in private transactions
- Consistent appreciation over decades
- Strong demand from elite collectors and institutions
Its value is driven by rarity, provenance, and global recognition.
Authentication and Preservation
Due to its extreme value, authentication and preservation are critical.
Key considerations include:
- Professional grading by top-tier numismatic services
- Secure storage in climate-controlled environments
- Detailed documentation of provenance
- Insurance coverage reflecting current market value
Proper care ensures both historical integrity and long-term investment security.
Cultural Impact and Fame
Beyond numismatics, the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel has become a cultural icon.
Its influence includes:
- Appearances in books, documentaries, and television
- Inspiration for fictional stories and mystery novels
- Regular display in major museums
- Recognition beyond the coin-collecting community
Few coins have achieved such widespread fame.
Investment Appeal
For high-net-worth collectors, the coin represents the pinnacle of collectible investment.
Investment strengths include:
- Extreme scarcity with zero new supply
- Strong historical price performance
- Global collector demand
- Proven long-term value retention
It is widely regarded as a blue-chip asset in the collectibles market.
Final Verdict
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is far more than a rare coin—it is a legendary artifact of American history. With only five known examples, an unauthorized origin, and a century-long trail of intrigue, it stands as one of the most valuable and famous coins ever produced. Its multimillion-dollar price tag reflects not just scarcity, but the enduring fascination it inspires among collectors worldwide.
For those fortunate enough to encounter one, the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel represents the ultimate symbol of numismatic prestige and historical significance.