The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel stands as one of the most coveted and mysterious coins in American numismatic history. With only five confirmed specimens, its rarity and the intrigue surrounding its creation have captivated collectors and historians alike. Remarkably, one of these nickels fetched over $4.5 million at auction, and some experts speculate that more could still be hidden in private collections or circulation.
The Enigmatic 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 transitioned to the Buffalo nickel design, officially ceasing production of the Liberty Head series. However, five Liberty Head nickels bearing the 1913 date were clandestinely produced, likely without official authorization. The exact circumstances of their minting remain unclear, adding to their allure and value.
Record-Breaking Auction Sales
The scarcity of the 1913 Liberty Head nickel has led to staggering auction prices. In August 2018, the finest known specimen, graded Proof 66 by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), was sold by Stack’s Bowers Galleries for $4.56 million. This sale set a world record for a coin made from non-precious metal.
Another notable sale occurred in January 2010, when a different specimen, graded Proof 64 by Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC), sold for $3,737,500 at a Heritage Auctions event.
The Five Known Specimens
The five confirmed 1913 Liberty Head nickels are:
| Nickname | Current Location |
|---|---|
| Eliasberg Specimen | Private collection; sold for $4.56 million in 2018 |
| Olsen Specimen | Private collection; sold for $3.7 million in 2010 |
| Norweb Specimen | National Numismatic Collection at the Smithsonian Institution |
| Walton Specimen | Private collection; previously thought lost, rediscovered in 2003 |
| McDermott Specimen | American Numismatic Association Money Museum in Colorado Springs, Colorado |
Each coin has a unique history, contributing to the overall mystique of the 1913 Liberty Head nickel.
Could More Be Out There?
The confirmed existence of only five specimens has led to speculation about the possibility of additional 1913 Liberty Head nickels. Given the clandestine nature of their production, it’s conceivable that other examples were minted and remain undiscovered in private collections or even in circulation. While no new specimens have surfaced in recent years, the allure of finding another keeps collectors vigilant.
Factors Contributing to the Nickel’s Value
Several elements contribute to the immense value of the 1913 Liberty Head nickel:
- Rarity: With only five known examples, its scarcity is unparalleled.
- Historical Significance: The coin represents a unique chapter in U.S. Mint history.
- Condition: Specimens graded as Proof 64 or higher command premium prices.
- Provenance: Ownership by notable collectors and appearances in popular culture enhance its allure.
Conclusion
The 1913 Liberty Head nickel is more than just a coin; it’s a piece of American history shrouded in mystery and intrigue. Its record-breaking auction sales underscore its significance in the numismatic world. While only five specimens are confirmed, the possibility of undiscovered examples continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts.
FAQs
1. Why is the 1913 Liberty Head nickel so valuable?
The coin’s value stems from its extreme rarity, with only five known specimens, and the mysterious circumstances of its unauthorized minting.
2. Has a 1913 Liberty Head nickel ever been found in circulation?
Yes, the McDermott Specimen shows signs of circulation, indicating it may have been used before its rarity was recognized.
3. What should I do if I believe I have a 1913 Liberty Head nickel?
If you suspect you possess this rare coin, consult a reputable numismatic expert or grading service for authentication and appraisal.
