The 1913 Liberty Nickel is one of the most famous and valuable coins in American history. With only five known examples, its rarity and intriguing backstory make it a highly sought-after piece among coin collectors.
Some of these nickels have sold for over $5 million at auctions. In this article, we will explore the history, features, and value of the 1913 Liberty Nickel, and understand why it’s considered a “holy grail” in coin collecting.
History of the 1913 Liberty Nickel
The Liberty Head Nickel was minted from 1883 to 1912. By 1913, the U.S. Mint had transitioned to producing the Buffalo Nickel.
However, a small number of Liberty Nickels were minted in 1913 without official authorization. This unauthorized production is what gives the 1913 Liberty Nickel its legendary status.
How It Was Minted: It is believed that five Liberty Head Nickels were struck by an unknown Mint employee during the last days of the Liberty Nickel’s production, either late in 1912 or early in 1913. These coins were never officially released but were quietly distributed and later discovered by collectors.
Why Is the 1913 Liberty Nickel Worth Over $5 Million?
The 1913 Liberty Nickel’s high value comes from its extreme rarity, unauthorized status, and the strong interest it has generated among collectors. Here are some factors that contribute to its high value:
Rarity: Only five known specimens exist, making it one of the rarest coins ever produced.
Historical Significance: The story of its unauthorized minting and its intriguing history have made it a legendary piece.
Auction Records: The 1913 Liberty Nickel has set several auction records, with prices exceeding $5 million for some examples.
Condition: The condition of the five coins varies, with some in almost perfect condition, which increases their value.
The Five Known 1913 Liberty Nickels
Each of the five known 1913 Liberty Nickels has a unique story. Here’s a look at each one:
1. The Eliasberg Specimen: This is considered the finest example, graded Proof 66. It was part of Louis E. Eliasberg’s collection and sold for $5 million in 2007.
2. The Olsen Specimen: Known for its media appearances, this coin is graded Proof 64 and was sold for $3.7 million in 2010.
3. The Walton Specimen: Believed lost for many years, this coin resurfaced in 2003. Graded Proof 63, it has been valued at over $3 million.
4. The Norweb Specimen: Owned by the Norweb family until 1949, this coin is graded Proof 63 and remains one of the finest examples.
5. The McDermott Specimen: With the lowest grade of Proof 55, this coin still fetched $1.35 million in 2003.
Value of the 1913 Liberty Nickel
The value of the 1913 Liberty Nickel has dramatically increased over time, with some examples selling for more than $5 million. The coin’s rarity, historical significance, and condition are the key factors driving its high value.
How to Spot a 1913 Liberty Nickel
If you happen to find a Liberty Nickel, here’s how to identify if it’s the rare 1913 version:
Obverse (Front):
- Liberty Head: Features Lady Liberty wearing a coronet inscribed with “LIBERTY.”
- Date: Look for the date “1913” at the bottom.
Reverse (Back):
- V Design: Displays a large Roman numeral “V,” indicating five cents.
- Mint Mark: No mint mark should be present, as all 1913 Liberty Nickels were minted in Philadelphia.
Estimated Values of the 1913 Liberty Nickel
| Coin Specimen | Grade | Sale Price (Most Recent) | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eliasberg Specimen | Proof 66 | $5 million (2007) | Over $5 million |
| Olsen Specimen | Proof 64 | $3.7 million (2010) | $3.7 million – $4.5 million |
| Walton Specimen | Proof 63 | Not sold recently | $3 million – $4 million |
| Norweb Specimen | Proof 63 | Not sold recently | $3 million – $4 million |
| McDermott Specimen | Proof 55 | $1.35 million (2003) | $1.35 million – $2 million |
The 1913 Liberty Nickel is more than just a coin; it’s a significant piece of American history with one of the most captivating stories in numismatics.
Its rarity and the fascinating tale behind its creation make it a $5 million treasure. As one of the most coveted coins in the world, the 1913 Liberty Nickel truly stands as the crown jewel of coin collecting.
1. Why is the 1913 Liberty Nickel so valuable?
The 1913 Liberty Nickel is extremely valuable due to its rarity. Only five known examples exist, and their unauthorized minting makes them highly sought after by collectors. The coin has fetched prices over $5 million at auctions.
2. How can I tell if I have a 1913 Liberty Nickel?
To identify a 1913 Liberty Nickel, look for the date “1913” on the obverse and a large Roman numeral “V” on the reverse. All 1913 Liberty Nickels were minted in Philadelphia, so there should be no mint mark.
3. How many 1913 Liberty Nickels are known to exist?
Only five 1913 Liberty Nickels are known to exist. Each coin has its own unique story and has been valued at millions of dollars.
4. Who are the famous owners of the 1913 Liberty Nickel?
Notable owners include Louis E. Eliasberg, whose specimen sold for $5 million, and George Walton, whose coin resurfaced in 2003 after being lost for decades.
5. What is the history behind the 1913 Liberty Nickel?
The 1913 Liberty Nickel was minted without official authorization in the final days of the Liberty Nickel’s production. This rare and unapproved minting is what makes the coin legendary among collectors.
