Rare Liberty Nickel : For most of us, a nickel is just five cents — something easily overlooked in couch cushions or forgotten at the bottom of a jar. But what if that little coin could be worth a fortune? Meet the legendary 1913 Liberty Head Nickel — a coin so rare and mysterious that it’s turned pocket change into millions for a few lucky collectors. If you’ve ever dreamed of becoming a “pocket change millionaire,” this guide is your roadmap to one of the greatest treasures in American numismatics.
The Liberty Head Nickel: A Quick Background
Minted from 1883 to 1912, the Liberty Head Nickel (also called the “V Nickel” for the Roman numeral V on its reverse) features Lady Liberty on the obverse and a wreath design on the back. It was replaced in 1913 by the Buffalo Nickel — but here’s where things get interesting.
Despite no official records showing that Liberty Head nickels were struck in 1913, five specimens exist — and they’ve become legends in the numismatic world.
Why the 1913 Liberty Nickel Is So Valuable
Only five 1913 Liberty Head Nickels are known to exist. Their origins are shrouded in mystery, believed to be the result of a clandestine minting by a U.S. Mint employee. Because they were never officially released, they’re considered illegal mint errors — but that hasn’t stopped them from becoming some of the most sought-after coins in the world.
Here’s what makes them so desirable:
- Extreme rarity (only five known)
- Unique history and controversy
- Prestigious provenance (once owned by famous collectors)
- High value among elite coin collectors
How Much Is It Worth?
Over the decades, the value of a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel has skyrocketed. Recent sales include:
- $3.7 million in 2010
- $4.56 million in 2018
- Estimates suggest future auctions could fetch $5–7 million or more
Even lower-grade examples of this coin — if you could find one — would be worth millions today.
Where Are the Five Nickels Now?
The five known examples each have nicknames based on their owners or conditions:
- Olsen Specimen – Featured on a 1970s episode of Hawaii Five-O
- Eliasberg Specimen – The finest known example, sold for millions
- Norweb Specimen – Housed at the Smithsonian
- Walton Specimen – Once thought lost, rediscovered in 2003
- McDermott Specimen – The only one with visible circulation wear, now in a museum
Could You Find One?
The odds are astronomical, but not impossible. The Walton specimen was missing for decades before being rediscovered in a Virginia closet. The owner had no idea they held a multimillion-dollar treasure. It’s a compelling reminder to check that old coin collection from grandpa or those mystery jars of change gathering dust.
Tips for Aspiring Coin Detectives
- Check Dates Carefully – Liberty Head nickels were last officially minted in 1912. A 1913 date should set off fireworks.
- Authenticate – Fakes abound. A legitimate 1913 specimen must be authenticated by a major grading service like PCGS or NGC.
- Stay Educated – Read up on rare coins, attend shows, and connect with reputable dealers.
- Preserve Condition – If you think you’ve found something special, don’t clean or damage it. Store it safely and seek expert advice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs..)
1. What is the Liberty Head Nickel?
The Liberty Head Nickel, also known as the “V Nickel,” is a five-cent coin minted in the United States from 1883 to 1912. It features the head of Lady Liberty on the front and a Roman numeral “V” (representing five cents) on the back.
2. Why is the 1913 Liberty Nickel so rare?
Although the Liberty Nickel series officially ended in 1912, five coins dated 1913 mysteriously appeared without official mint records. These coins are believed to have been unofficially struck, making them among the rarest and most famous coins in American history.
3. How many 1913 Liberty Nickels exist?
Only five authentic 1913 Liberty Head Nickels are known to exist today. Each has been extensively documented and given a nickname based on its provenance.
4. How much is a 1913 Liberty Nickel worth?
Values range from $3 million to over $4.5 million, depending on the coin’s condition and history. With each auction, their worth continues to climb, and collectors speculate they could sell for $5–7 million or more in the future.
Final Thoughts: A Million-Dollar Lesson
The story of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is more than just a tale of rarity; it’s a reminder that history, mystery, and value can hide in plain sight. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious about your spare change, it pays to take a closer look.
Who knows? The next time you empty your pockets, you might just hold a fortune in your hand.
Got old coins lying around? You might want to take a second look — your road to becoming a “pocket change millionaire” could start with a single nickel.
