The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel stands as one of the most enigmatic and coveted coins in American numismatic history. With only five specimens known to exist, each valued at over $4 million, the allure of this coin captivates collectors and historians alike. But what makes this nickel so extraordinary, and could such a treasure be hiding unnoticed in your collection?
A Coin That Wasn’t Meant to Be
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, officially retiring the Liberty Head design.
However, against official records, five Liberty Head Nickels bearing the 1913 date were clandestinely produced, likely without U.S. Mint approval. The exact circumstances of their creation remain shrouded in mystery, adding to their intrigue.
The Discovery and Public Unveiling
The existence of these 1913 Liberty Head Nickels came to light in 1920 when Samuel W. Brown, a former Mint employee, displayed them at the American Numismatic Association convention in Chicago.
This revelation stunned the numismatic community, as no official records indicated their production. Over time, these five coins became some of the most sought-after rarities in the coin-collecting world.
The Five Known Specimens
Each of the five known 1913 Liberty Head Nickels has a unique history and has passed through the hands of various prominent collectors. They are:
- The Eliasberg Specimen: Named after Louis E. Eliasberg, a renowned collector who owned the only complete collection of U.S. coins.
- The Olsen Specimen: Famously featured in an episode of the TV show “Hawaii Five-O” and once owned by King Farouk of Egypt.
- The Norweb Specimen: Part of the Norweb family’s extensive coin collection.
- The Walton Specimen: Lost for decades after the owner’s death in a car accident and rediscovered in 2003.
- The McDermott Specimen: The only specimen with circulation wear, indicating it may have been used in everyday transactions.
Valuation and Auction Records
The value of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel has appreciated significantly over the years. In 2010, the Olsen Specimen sold for $3.7 million. More recently, in October 2022, the Walton Specimen fetched $4.2 million at auction. These figures underscore the coin’s status as a “holy grail” among collectors.
Could One Be in Your Possession?
Given the extensive documentation and well-known histories of the five specimens, the likelihood of an undiscovered 1913 Liberty Head Nickel surfacing is exceedingly slim.
However, the world of numismatics is full of surprises. If you believe you have a rare coin, especially one resembling the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, it’s imperative to consult with a professional numismatist or a reputable coin grading service for authentication.
Key Features of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Obverse Design | Lady Liberty facing left, wearing a coronet inscribed with “LIBERTY,” encircled by 13 stars. |
| Reverse Design | Roman numeral “V” (denoting five cents) surrounded by a wreath, with “E PLURIBUS UNUM” above. |
| Composition | 75% copper, 25% nickel. |
| Diameter | 21.2 millimeters. |
| Weight | 5 grams. |
| Edge | Plain (smooth). |
| Mint Mark | None (all specimens lack a mint mark). |
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel embodies a blend of rarity, historical intrigue, and numismatic significance. While the chances of discovering one in your possession are minimal, the story of this coin serves as a testament to the rich tapestry of history and mystery that defines coin collecting.
FAQs
Why were the 1913 Liberty Head Nickels minted without authorization?
The exact reasons remain unclear, but it’s believed that a Mint employee produced them clandestinely, possibly as patterns or for personal gain.
How can I authenticate a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel?
Due to the coin’s rarity, authentication should be conducted by professional numismatists or reputable coin grading services.
What makes the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel so valuable?
Its value stems from its extreme rarity, historical significance, and the mystery surrounding its unauthorized minting.
Have any other unauthorized U.S. coins been discovered?
Yes, there have been other instances, such as the 1933 Double Eagle, which was minted but never officially released.
Where can I view a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel?
Some specimens are occasionally displayed in museums or at numismatic conventions. Checking with institutions like the American Numismatic Association can provide viewing opportunities.
