Ash
In the realm of numismatics, few coins captivate collectors and historians alike as the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel.
With only five known specimens in existence, this coin’s rarity and enigmatic origins have propelled it to legendary status.
Recently, one of these elusive nickels fetched an astounding $4.2 million at auction, underscoring its unparalleled allure in the coin-collecting community.
The Enigmatic Origins of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The Liberty Head nickel design was officially discontinued in 1912, replaced by the Buffalo nickel in 1913.
However, five Liberty Head nickels bearing the 1913 date mysteriously surfaced, despite no official records of their minting.
Theories abound regarding their creation, with many attributing their existence to Samuel W. Brown, a former U.S. Mint employee.
Brown’s 1919 advertisement offering $500 for each 1913 Liberty Head nickel raised suspicions that he may have orchestrated their clandestine production.
The Walton Specimen: A Coin’s Remarkable Odyssey
Among the five known specimens, the Walton nickel boasts a particularly intriguing history.
Acquired by George O. Walton in 1945 for approximately $3,750, the coin was presumed lost following Walton’s fatal car accident in 1962.
Mistakenly deemed a counterfeit, the nickel languished in a closet for over four decades until its authenticity was confirmed in 2003.
Subsequently, it was sold for $3.17 million in 2013 and later changed hands for $4.2 million in 2022, acquired by GreatCollections Coin Auctions.
The Quintet of 1913 Liberty Head Nickels
Each of the five known 1913 Liberty Head nickels carries its own unique narrative:
| Specimen | Current Status | Notable Details |
|---|---|---|
| Eliasberg | Private Collection | Finest known example; sold for $4.56 million in 2018 |
| Olsen | Private Collection | Featured on “Hawaii Five-O”; sold for over $3.7 million |
| Walton | Private Collection | Rediscovered after decades; sold for $4.2 million in 2022 |
| McDermott | ANA Money Museum | Only circulated specimen; donated in 1989 |
| Norweb | Smithsonian Institution | Donated in 1978; part of national collection |
The Coin’s Unprecedented Value
The astronomical value of the 1913 Liberty Head nickel is attributed to several factors:
- Extreme Rarity: With only five specimens, its scarcity is undeniable.
- Historical Intrigue: The mystery surrounding its unauthorized minting adds to its allure.
- Provenance: Ownership by notable figures and appearances in popular culture enhance its prestige.
- Condition: High-grade examples, such as the Eliasberg specimen, command premium prices.
The 1913 Liberty Head nickel stands as a testament to the fascinating intersection of history, mystery, and numismatics.
Its recent $4.2 million sale not only reflects its monetary value but also its enduring significance in the world of coin collecting.
For enthusiasts and historians alike, this nickel embodies the captivating stories that rare coins can tell.
FAQs
Why were the 1913 Liberty Head nickels minted without authorization?
The exact reason remains speculative, but it’s widely believed that Samuel W. Brown, a former Mint employee, orchestrated their production, possibly as a private endeavor.
How can I verify the authenticity of a rare coin like the 1913 Liberty Head nickel?
Authenticity can be confirmed through reputable grading services such as the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC).
Are there other coins as rare and valuable as the 1913 Liberty Head nickel?
Yes, coins like the 1804 Silver Dollar and the 1933 Double Eagle are also among the most coveted and valuable in numismatic circles.