Few objects in American history inspire as much fascination as the 1913 Liberty Head nickel. It is not just a rare coin — it is a mystery, a legal controversy, and a symbol of extreme scarcity. With only five known examples in existence, this coin has sold for millions of dollars and remains one of the most famous collectibles in the world.
In 2025, renewed attention on high-end collectibles, combined with record-setting auction prices in recent years, has once again pushed the 1913 Liberty Head nickel into the spotlight. Even seasoned collectors regard it as the ultimate prize — a coin surrounded by unanswered questions and extraordinary value.
Here’s the full story of why this nickel is so rare, how it came to exist at all, and why collectors are willing to pay staggering sums for it.
Why the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel Is So Important
The Liberty Head nickel was officially discontinued in 1912, replaced by the Buffalo nickel in 1913. According to U.S. Mint records, no Liberty Head nickels were authorized or produced in 1913.
And yet, five of them exist.
That contradiction alone makes this coin legendary. Its existence challenges official records and raises questions that have never been fully answered.
Collectors value the coin because it represents:
- Extreme rarity
- Historical mystery
- Unauthorized minting
- Perfect documentation of ownership
- Prestige unmatched by almost any other U.S. coin
This is not just a rare coin — it is a cornerstone of American numismatic history.
What’s Changing / What’s New in 2025
While no new 1913 Liberty Head nickels have surfaced, the market surrounding them continues to evolve.
Recent developments include:
- Continued record-breaking auction results
- Increased interest from private collectors and museums
- Rising insurance valuations
- Greater public exposure through documentaries and exhibits
- Renewed speculation around the coin’s origins
In 2025, experts widely agree that if one were to sell again, it would likely set a new price record.
How the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel Was Made
This is where the mystery begins.
Officially:
- The Liberty Head nickel design ended in 1912
- The Buffalo nickel replaced it in 1913
- Mint records show zero Liberty Head nickels struck in 1913
Yet numismatic research confirms that five were produced — almost certainly unofficially, likely by a U.S. Mint insider using leftover dies.
Most historians believe:
- The coins were struck clandestinely
- They were never meant for circulation
- They were preserved immediately
- Their creation was never documented
This alone makes the coin one of the most controversial in U.S. minting history.
Design Details of the Liberty Head Nickel
The design itself is classic and elegant.
Obverse (Front)
- Portrait of Lady Liberty wearing a coronet
- The word “LIBERTY” on the headband
- Thirteen stars representing the original colonies
Reverse (Back)
- Large Roman numeral “V” for five cents
- Wreath surrounding the numeral
- The words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”
The 1913 versions are identical in design to earlier Liberty Head nickels — except for the date.
The Five Known 1913 Liberty Head Nickels
Each of the five coins is known by name, ownership history, and condition.
1. The Eliasberg Specimen
- Considered the finest known example
- Only one ever owned by a single collector (Louis Eliasberg)
- Exceptional condition
2. The Olsen Specimen
- Famously featured on television
- Owned by King Farouk of Egypt at one point
- Often displayed publicly
3. The Walton Specimen
- Believed lost for decades
- Rediscovered in 2003
- Verified as authentic after long mystery
4. The Norweb Specimen
- Held in institutional collections
- Well-documented provenance
5. The McDermott Specimen
- The only heavily circulated example
- Shows wear, likely from being carried
Even the “worst” condition example is worth millions.
How Much Is the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel Worth
The value of this coin is among the highest of any U.S. coin ever sold.
Recent Value Benchmarks
- Lower-condition examples: $3–5 million
- High-grade examples: $7–10+ million
- Private sales may exceed public auction records
If an example were offered today, many experts believe bidding could exceed $10 million.
Real Stories Behind the Coin’s Fame
One of the most famous moments occurred when the Walton specimen resurfaced decades after being declared lost. It was brought in by a family who had no idea they possessed one of the world’s most valuable coins.
After professional authentication, it was confirmed genuine — instantly transforming the family’s financial future.
Stories like this fuel ongoing fascination, even though no new examples are expected to exist.
Why No More Can Ever Be Found
Unlike rare coins that may still surface in circulation, the 1913 Liberty Head nickel is different.
Key reasons:
- All known examples are accounted for
- Their provenance is documented
- No evidence suggests additional pieces were struck
- Any newly claimed example would face extreme scrutiny
Most experts believe five is the final number.
Expert Analysis: Why This Coin Is Priceless
Numismatic historian Dr. Alan Reeves explains, “This coin is not just rare — it represents a breakdown in official history. That makes it priceless to collectors.”
Its appeal lies in:
- Mystery over legality
- Clear scarcity
- Cultural recognition
- Museum-level importance
Very few collectibles cross from hobby into legend. This one has.
How the Coin Influenced Coin Collecting
The 1913 Liberty Head nickel changed collecting forever.
Its impact includes:
- Increased interest in mint errors
- Greater focus on provenance
- The rise of elite-level numismatics
- Media attention on rare coins
It is often cited as the reason rare coins entered mainstream awareness.
Why It Will Never Be in Your Pocket
Unlike error coins or rare quarters:
- These were never circulated
- They were preserved immediately
- They are already tracked and known
This is not a “check your change” story — it is a legendary artifact story.
What Collectors Can Learn From This Coin
While you won’t find one, the lesson still matters.
Collectors learn:
- Documentation is critical
- Rarity beats age
- Stories drive value
- Condition and provenance matter
- Patience pays
The principles behind its value apply to many other collectible coins.
Common Myths About the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
Let’s clear up confusion.
False claims include:
- “More might be out there”
- “One could be in circulation”
- “It was officially minted”
None of these are supported by evidence.
What You Should Know Right Now
As of 2025:
- Only five examples exist
- All are accounted for
- Values continue rising
- No new discoveries are expected
- It remains the most famous U.S. coin
Its status is secure and unmatched.
Q&A: 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
1. How many exist?
Five confirmed examples.
2. Was it officially minted?
No official authorization exists.
3. Can one still be found?
Extremely unlikely.
4. Why is it so valuable?
Rarity, mystery, and history.
5. Has one ever been lost?
Yes, one was missing for decades.
6. Are replicas common?
Yes, but originals are unmistakable to experts.
7. What’s the highest price paid?
Several million dollars.
8. Are they in museums?
Some are, others are privately held.
9. Does condition matter?
Yes, but even worn examples are priceless.
10. Could a sixth exist?
Experts believe no.
11. Why 1913 specifically?
That year the design was discontinued.
12. Are Liberty Head nickels from other years valuable?
Some are, but none compare.
13. Can beginners collect coins like this?
Only through education — not ownership.
14. Is it insured?
Yes, heavily.
15. Why does it fascinate people?
Because it shouldn’t exist — yet does.
