Imagine finding a simple five-cent coin in your grandma’s old jar that sells for millions at auction. That’s the magic of the 1913 Liberty Nickel – one of the rarest and most valuable coins in American history. Only five exist, and each one has a wild story of mystery, secret minting, and record-breaking sales. If you’re into coin collecting or just love hidden treasures, this forbidden nickel could make you an instant millionaire. Keep reading to learn its shocking history, why it’s worth a fortune, and how to spot one yourself!
What Is the Liberty Head Nickel and Why Is the 1913 Liberty Nickel So Special?
The Liberty Head Nickel, also called the “V Nickel” because of the big Roman numeral “V” (for five cents) on the back, was a everyday coin minted from 1883 to 1912. It shows Lady Liberty wearing a crown on the front and a simple wreath around the “V” on the reverse.
Most of these nickels are common and worth just a few dollars today. But the 1913 Liberty Nickel is different – it’s a total outlaw! In 1913, the U.S. Mint switched to the new Buffalo Nickel design. No Liberty Nickels were supposed to be made that year. Yet, somehow, five were secretly created at the Philadelphia Mint without official approval.
Experts believe a sneaky Mint worker, possibly Samuel W. Brown, struck them illegally just before the old dies were destroyed. These “forbidden” coins never entered normal circulation, making them ultra-rare treasures.
The Thrilling Mystery Behind Its Creation
No official records exist of these coins being made. Brown, a former Mint employee, advertised in 1919 offering big money for any 1913 Liberty Nickels – before anyone knew they existed! By 1920, he magically owned all five and showed them off at coin shows. Was he the mastermind? The truth remains one of numismatics’ biggest unsolved puzzles.
Why Is the 1913 Liberty Nickel Worth Millions?
Rarity drives the insane value. With just five known examples, demand from wealthy collectors skyrockets prices. Add the illegal backstory, famous owners (like kings and celebrities), and media hype – it’s no wonder these nickels shatter auction records.
- Extreme Scarcity: Only five ever made, none officially released.
- Proof Quality: All are high-grade proofs, perfect for collectors.
- Historic Sales: Prices have jumped from $100,000 in 1972 to over $4.5 million today.
- Cultural Icon: Featured in TV shows like Hawaii Five-O and endless news stories.
The Five Famous 1913 Liberty Nickel Specimens and Their Jaw-Dropping Auction Prices
Each coin has a unique name, story, and owner history. Here’s a breakdown:
| Specimen Name | Grade (PCGS/NGC) | Notable History | Highest Sale Price | Year | Buyer/Seller Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eliasberg | PR-66 | Finest known; owned by collector Louis Eliasberg | $4.56 million | 2018 | Stack’s Bowers auction |
| Olsen | PR-64 | Owned by King Farouk of Egypt; TV fame | $3.737 million | 2010 | Heritage Auctions |
| Walton | PR-63 | “Lost” for 40 years after car crash; rediscovered in 2003 | $4.2 million | 2022 | GreatCollections (private sale) |
| Norweb | PR-65 | Donated to Smithsonian | N/A (museum) | – | On public display |
| McDermott | PR-66 | Displayed at ANA museum | $3+ million (est.) | Various | Currently in museum |
These sales prove the 1913 Liberty Nickel keeps climbing in value – perfect for investors eyeing rare coins!
Could There Be a Sixth 1913 Liberty Nickel Hiding Somewhere?
Rumors swirl about a possible undiscovered coin. Some were found in shocking places, like a car dealership drawer or a closet after decades. Dreams of pocket change millionaires keep hope alive!
How to Spot a Genuine 1913 Liberty Nickel (And Avoid Fakes!)
Think you have one? Here’s what to look for:
Key Identification Features
- Date: Clearly marked “1913” on the front below Liberty’s neck.
- Design: Lady Liberty with stars and “LIBERTY” on the headband; reverse has “V” in a wreath, “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.”
- No Mint Mark: All struck in Philadelphia (no letter).
- Condition: Look for sharp details – proofs shine like new.
- Weight and Size: 5 grams, 21.2 mm diameter, made of 75% copper and 25% nickel.
Tips to Authenticate Your Coin
- Get it graded by pros like PCGS or NGC – they spot fakes instantly.
- Check for wear: Real ones are proofs, rarely circulated.
- Avoid altered dates: Crooks sometimes change 1912 or 1918 coins.
If it’s real, you’re holding a multi-million-dollar gem!
Other Valuable Liberty Nickels Worth Hunting For
Not just 1913! These key dates can fetch hundreds to thousands:
Top Rare Dates Besides 1913
- 1885: Only 1.47 million minted – worth $500+ in good condition.
- 1886: Even scarcer – up to $10,000 in high grades.
- 1912-S: Last San Francisco mint – $300+.
Start digging through old rolls – you never know!
Why Collectors Obsess Over the 1913 Liberty Nickel
It’s more than money – it’s American history in your hand. From secret minting scandals to globe-trotting adventures (one owned by an Egyptian king!), this coin screams excitement. In a world of stocks and crypto, tangible rarities like the 1913 Liberty Nickel offer timeless value and thrill.
Ready to hunt? Check your change jars, attics, and estate sales. Who knows – your next nickel could be the 1913 Liberty Nickel worth millions! Start collecting today and join the millionaire club.