The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel stands as one of the most enigmatic and coveted coins in American numismatic history. Its rarity, combined with a mysterious origin, has captivated collectors and historians alike, propelling its value into the millions.
A Coin That Wasn’t Meant to Be
In 1913, the U.S. Mint transitioned from the Liberty Head design to the Buffalo Nickel. Official records indicate that no Liberty Head nickels were authorized for production that year. However, five specimens bearing the 1913 date mysteriously emerged, none of which were officially sanctioned.
The prevailing theory suggests that a Mint employee, possibly Samuel Brown, clandestinely produced these coins before their existence became public in the early 1920s.
The Fabulous Five: A Closer Look
Only five 1913 Liberty Head Nickels are known to exist, each with a unique story and provenance:
| Specimen Name | Current Location | Notable Facts |
|---|---|---|
| Eliasberg Specimen | Private Collection | Considered the finest example, graded Proof-66. Sold for $5 million in 2007. |
| Olsen Specimen | Private Collection | Featured on “Hawaii Five-O” and owned by King Farouk of Egypt. Sold for $3.7 million in 2010. |
| Norweb Specimen | Smithsonian Institution | Donated by the Norweb family in 1978; resides in the National Numismatic Collection. |
| McDermott Specimen | American Numismatic Association’s Money Museum | The only circulated specimen, exhibiting wear from being carried by J.V. McDermott. |
| Walton Specimen | Private Collection | Once thought lost in a car accident; rediscovered and authenticated in 2003. |
The Value Proposition: Why So Coveted?
Several factors contribute to the immense value of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel:
- Extreme Rarity: With only five known specimens, their scarcity is unparalleled.
- Historical Significance: Their unauthorized minting during a transitional period in U.S. coinage adds intrigue.
- Provenance: Ownership by notable figures and appearances in popular culture enhance their allure.
- Condition: Grades range from circulated to Proof-66, with higher grades commanding premium prices.
Auction Records: A Testament to Their Worth
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickels have consistently fetched astronomical prices at auctions:
- Eliasberg Specimen: Sold for $1.485 million in 1996; resold for $5 million in 2007.
- Olsen Specimen: Achieved $3.7 million at a 2010 auction.
- Walton Specimen: Valued at $3 million in a 2013 private transaction.
The Legacy Continues
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel remains a symbol of rarity and intrigue in the numismatic world. Its story, marked by mystery, notable ownerships, and record-breaking sales, continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts, ensuring its place as a legendary artifact in American coinage history.
FAQs
Why were the 1913 Liberty Head Nickels produced without authorization?
It’s believed that a Mint employee, possibly Samuel Brown, clandestinely produced these coins during the transition to the Buffalo Nickel in 1913.
How many 1913 Liberty Head Nickels exist today?
Only five specimens are known to exist, each with a well-documented provenance.
What makes the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel so valuable?
Its extreme rarity, historical significance, notable ownerships, and condition contribute to its immense value.
