A Rare Coin : In the world of coin collecting, few discoveries cause a stir like the 1913 Liberty Head nickel. But one of the five known examples just made history — again — selling for a record-breaking $6.4 million in a private sale that left the numismatic world stunned.
What makes this small, seemingly ordinary five-cent coin worth millions? The answer lies in its mysterious origin, extreme rarity, and dramatic history that spans over a century.
The Story Behind the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
Official U.S. Mint records indicate that no Liberty Head nickels were produced in 1913. The design had already been replaced by the Buffalo nickel that year. But somehow, five Liberty nickels dated 1913 were secretly struck — likely without authorization — at the Philadelphia Mint.
Their existence wasn’t even publicly known until 1920, when coin dealer Samuel Brown, a former Mint employee, displayed one at a coin convention. He claimed to have acquired all five and brought them to light — sparking one of the greatest mysteries in American numismatics.
Why It Sold for $6.4 Million
The specific 1913 Liberty nickel that just sold is known as the Eliasberg specimen, named after the legendary collector Louis Eliasberg, who once owned it. This coin is considered the finest example of the five and is graded PR66 by PCGS, indicating near-perfect condition.
Key reasons for its massive value include:
-
Only five known to exist
-
Unrecorded and unauthorized U.S. Mint production
-
Pristine condition with original mirror-like surfaces
-
Provenance, having passed through the hands of some of the most famous collectors in history
Its mysterious origin, rarity, and flawless preservation make it one of the most coveted coins in the world.
The Five Known Specimens
All five 1913 Liberty Head nickels are named after former owners:
-
Eliasberg Specimen – Finest known; just sold for $6.4 million.
-
Norweb Specimen – Housed at the Smithsonian Institution.
-
Walton Specimen – Once thought lost; rediscovered in 2003.
-
Olsen Specimen – Once appeared on TV’s Hawaii Five-O.
-
McDermott Specimen – The only circulated example, now at the ANA Money Museum.
Why Collectors Are Obsessed
Aside from its rarity, the 1913 Liberty nickel has achieved legend status due to its lore and mystery. How and why they were struck remains unclear, and their story includes lost coins, dramatic rediscoveries, and high-profile sales.
For collectors, it represents the perfect storm: a forbidden coin, a hidden treasure, and a piece of numismatic history that transcends its face value.
Final Thoughts
The recent $6.4 million sale of the 1913 Liberty Head nickel isn’t just a story about money — it’s about mystery, legacy, and the passion that drives collectors to pursue the rarest treasures. In a world where most nickels are barely noticed, this one reminds us that even the smallest coin can hold a fortune — and a story worth telling.
Coin Collector Tip: Always check your change. While you’re unlikely to find a 1913 Liberty nickel, other rare coins still circulate occasionally — and some are worth thousands.
FAQs: Why This 1913 Liberty Nickel Just Sold for $6.4 Million
1. Why is the 1913 Liberty Head nickel so rare?
Only five were ever made, and they were never officially authorized by the U.S. Mint. Their mysterious origin and extreme scarcity make them some of the most coveted coins in the world.
2. What makes the $6.4 million Liberty nickel special?
This particular coin, known as the Eliasberg specimen, is the finest known example of the five. It’s in near-perfect condition (graded PR66) and has a prestigious ownership history, driving its incredible value.
3. Can I still find a 1913 Liberty Head nickel in circulation?
No — all five known examples are accounted for and held in private collections or museums. However, valuable coins from other years may still turn up in pocket change, estate collections, or coin rolls.