The coin world, referred to Numismatics has very limited coins that are constantly in the news over years due to their mystery, history and value. One of such coins is the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel. And it is not any ordinary five cent coin, but it reflects a value of more than 5 million dollars (nearly Rs 40 crore).
The largest specially of this coin is that there are only five certified specimens of this coin. Its obscure origin, scarcity and strategic significance have rendered it a myth amongst the collectors and historians worldwide.
Origin of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
Nickel Liberty Head The Liberty Head nickel was initially struck by the US Mint between 1883 and1912. It was designed by famous designer Charles E. Barber however in 1913 the US government discontinued it and it was replaced by the Buffalo Nickel. formaly, the Liberty Head nickel production had stopped in 1912 itself.
The surprising part though is that the five Liberty Head nickels with the date 1913 did turn up. These coins are struck without any permission. These coins are believed to have been secretly produced by Samuel W. Brown who was at the time an employee of the US Mint.
In 1919, Brown printed an advertisement in which he bought 1913 Liberty Head nickels. He was giving 500 dollars per coin but it happened that he was the owner of the five coins.
Five unique specimens and their journey
These five coins have their own special identities, and have been owned by many celebrities and organizations over time:
- Eliasberg Specimen: This coin is in a private collection today and has been graded PR66 by PCGS – the best specimen ever found.
- Olsen Specimen: This coin was once owned by King Farouk of Egypt and Dr. Jerry Buss. It was also featured on the popular 1973 TV show “Hawaii Five-O.”
- Walton Specimen: It was thought to be a fake for decades but was proven to be authentic in 2003. Today it is part of a private collection.
- McDermott Specimen: It is the only specimen to have circulation marks. It is now housed in the American Numismatic Association Money Museum.
- Norweb Specimen: It is in the National Collection of the Smithsonian Institution and was once owned by Samuel W. Brown.
Record-breaking sales
Auctions of these coins have captured the attention of coin collectors around the world and set records:
- Eliasberg Specimen: Sold for $5 million in 2007, a record at the time. * Olson specimen: Its price reached $3.7 million in 2010.
- Walton specimen: After being certified in 2003, it was sold for $3.1 million in 2013.
These figures clearly show that this coin has become not just a metal but a symbol of history and heritage.
Design details
The design of this coin is not only beautiful, but it also reflects the craftsmanship of that era:
- Obverse: The front of the coin has an image of a left-facing Lady Liberty with “LIBERTY” written on her crown. Surrounding it are 13 stars, which symbolize the original 13 colonies of America.
- Reverse: The back has a large Roman numeral ‘V’, which shows its value (5 cents). It is surrounded by a beautiful floral wreath and is inscribed with “E PLURIBUS UNUM” (Unity in Diversity) below.
The effect of mystery in popular culture
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is not just confined to museums, it has also made its mark in TV and literature.
- TV Shows: The Olson specimen was featured in the 1973 episode “The $100,000 Nickel” of the TV series “Hawaii Five-O”.
- Literature and articles: Several numismatic magazines and books have discussed the stories of this coin and its historical significance in detail.
The hidden reasons behind this coin’s high price
Can a small coin be so valuable? Absolutely! And there are several solid reasons behind it:
- Rarity: Only 5 certified specimens – that’s what makes it extremely valuable.
- Historical Significance: This coin was struck during a period when the design was being changed, and its non-official minting makes it a mystery.
- Condition and Grading: Good condition specimens command several times the price.
- Fame and Provenance: Its appearance in the lives of celebrities, museums, and TV shows has made its value even higher.
Conclusion: One Coin, Many Stories
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is a not ordinary piece of metal, but a document of time, a mystery and a cultural treasure. Its history demonstrates the fact that rarity and history are more expensive than any money in the world of collecting. So, when you find such a coin it might not be a coin, but a million dollar legend.
FAQs
Q1. Why is the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel so valuable?
It’s extremely rare—only five are known to exist—and has a mysterious origin.
Q2. Who created the 1913 Liberty Head Nickels?
They were likely secretly made by Samuel W. Brown, a former U.S. Mint employee.
Q3. How many 1913 Liberty Head Nickels are there?
Only five authenticated specimens are known worldwide.
Q4. What is the highest price one has sold for?
The Eliasberg specimen sold for $5 million in a private sale in 2007.
Q5. Where can I see one of these nickels today?
One is on display at the Smithsonian Institution; others are in private collections and museums.
