Imagine finding a nickel in your collection that could be worth over $4 million. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, that dream is real for the lucky few who own a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel—one of the rarest and most mysterious coins in U.S. history. With only five known examples in existence, this coin isn’t just rare—it’s legendary.
What Makes 1913 Liberty Head Nickel So Special?
Let’s break it down.
Unauthorized Production
This coin was never supposed to exist. The U.S. Mint stopped making Liberty Head nickels in 1912, switching to the Buffalo design in 1913. But somehow, five Liberty nickels dated 1913 were secretly struck—without any official authorization. That twist of history adds a lot of intrigue (and value).
Only Five in the World
Yep, just five. That’s it. And they’ve been well-documented for over a century, passing through the hands of famous collectors, dealers, and even museums.
A Story for the Ages
These nickels have a backstory full of mystery, legal questions, and blockbuster sales. They’ve been featured in books, documentaries, and even TV shows—earning a reputation as the “Holy Grail” of coin collecting.
Auction Prices That’ll Blow Your Mind
These nickels don’t just collect dust—they bring millions at auction:
- $4.56 million in 2018 (Stack’s Bowers)
- $3.7 million and $5 million in other recent sales
Even the lower-end specimens have sold for well over a million. When it comes to valuable coins, this one tops the list.
How to Spot a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
Here’s what sets it apart:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Obverse Design | Lady Liberty with a coronet |
| Reverse Design | “FIVE CENTS” surrounded by a wreath |
| Mint Mark | None (no mintmark appears on the coin) |
| Year | 1913 only—Liberty Heads officially stopped in 1912 |
If you ever find one, don’t clean it—and get it to a grading service immediately!
Authenticating the Real Deal
Because these coins are so valuable, you’ll want absolute proof that it’s authentic.
- PCGS or NGC grading is a must.
- Provenance (ownership history) helps boost value—especially if your coin has ties to famous collectors.
- Watch out for fakes—these coins are often copied, so expert validation is key.
Final Thoughts
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is more than just a coin—it’s a slice of American mystery and one of the rarest treasures in the hobby. With jaw-dropping prices and only five known to exist, it’s the kind of coin that turns dreams into millions.
Whether you’re deep into numismatics or just coin-curious, this legendary nickel is worth knowing about. Who knows—your next big find could be in a forgotten drawer or old coin jar.
FAQ’s
How many 1913 Liberty Head Nickels exist?
Only five are known to exist, making it one of the rarest U.S. coins.
Why is the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel so valuable?
Its unauthorized production, extreme rarity, and rich history make it highly sought-after.
How much is a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel worth?
Some have sold for over $4 million, with top examples reaching $5 million at auction.
