Liberty Head Nickel: Could a nickel in your wallet be worth $5.2 million? The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the rarest coins in the world, with only five known to exist. These coins, possibly made without official approval, have sold for millions at auctions, making them a dream find for collectors. They might still be hiding in old coin jars or family heirlooms. This article explains in simple words why this nickel is so valuable, how to spot one, and what to do if you find it. Start checking your change—you could be holding a fortune!
What Is the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel?
The Liberty Head Nickel, also called the V Nickel, was minted from 1883 to 1912. It shows Lady Liberty’s face on the front and a big “V” (Roman numeral for 5) on the back. In 1913, the U.S. Mint switched to the Buffalo Nickel, so no Liberty Head Nickels were supposed to be made that year. Yet, five 1913 nickels exist, likely struck in secret at the Philadelphia Mint, possibly by an employee named Samuel W. Brown. This mystery makes them super valuable.
Why Is It So Valuable?
Only five 1913 Liberty Head Nickels are known, making them incredibly rare. Their mysterious origin—possibly made without permission—adds to their allure. They’ve sold for huge sums, like $5 million in 2007 and $4.2 million in 2022, due to their scarcity and history. Collectors also love their link to pop culture, like appearing in a 1973 Hawaii Five-O episode.
The $5.2 Million Claim: Fact or Fiction?
The $5.2 million value is close to real sales, like the $5 million Eliasberg specimen in 2007. While no nickel has hit exactly $5.2 million, recent auctions show values between $3.1 million and $8.1 million, depending on condition. The claim might come from online hype or estimates for a top-grade coin. All five known nickels are accounted for, but rumors of a sixth keep treasure hunters hopeful.
How to Spot a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
Here’s what to look for:
- Obverse (Front): Lady Liberty facing left, with “1913” below and 13 stars around.
- Reverse (Back): A big “V” with “United States of America” and “E Pluribus Unum” around it.
- Material: 75% copper, 25% nickel; weighs 5 grams.
- No Mint Mark: Made in Philadelphia, so no “S” or “D” mark.
- Condition: Shiny, unworn coins are worth more.
Fakes are common, so professional grading is a must.
The Five Known Nickels
Each of the five nickels has a unique story:
- Eliasberg Specimen: Best condition, sold for $5 million in 2007. In a private collection.
- Olsen Specimen: Featured on Hawaii Five-O, sold for $3.7 million in 2010. Private hands.
- Norweb Specimen: In the Smithsonian, not for sale.
- Walton Specimen: Lost for decades, sold for $4.2 million in 2022. Private collection.
- McDermott Specimen: Has circulation marks, at the ANA Money Museum.
| Nickel Name | Key Feature | Location | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eliasberg | Near-perfect, Proof-66 | Private collection | $5 million (2007) |
| Olsen | TV fame, Proof-64 | Private collection | $3.7 million (2010) |
| Norweb | Museum piece | Smithsonian | Not for sale |
| Walton | Lost, then found | Private collection | $4.2 million (2022) |
| McDermott | Circulation marks | ANA Money Museum | Not for sale |
Where to Find a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
It’s unlikely, but you might find one:
- Old Coin Collections: Check family heirlooms or inherited jars.
- Antique Shops or Flea Markets: Look for old coins in mixed lots.
- Coin Rolls: Rare, but possible in bank rolls.
- Auctions or Dealers: Check eBay, Heritage Auctions, or coin shops.
All five known nickels are tracked, so finding a new one would be a huge discovery.
What to Do If You Find One
- Don’t Clean It: Cleaning lowers value.
- Store Safely: Use a plastic coin holder.
- Get It Graded: Take it to PCGS or NGC for authentication.
- Sell Wisely: Contact auction houses like Heritage Auctions or dealers like APMEX.
Avoiding Counterfeits
Fakes are a big problem, as the 1913 nickel’s fame attracts scammers. Check for:
- Correct Details: Look for sharp, clear designs.
- Weight and Size: Should be 5 grams, 21.2 mm wide.
- Professional Grading: Only trust PCGS or NGC to verify.
Conclusion
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, with only five known, is a collector’s dream worth up to $5.2 million. While all five are accounted for, the chance of finding a new one in old collections or forgotten stashes keeps the hunt alive. Check coins for “1913,” Lady Liberty, and no mint mark, but beware of fakes. Get any find graded by experts and sell through trusted auctions. This nickel’s mystery and value make it a legend. Look through your change or old jars—you might just strike it rich!
FAQ
Is the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel really worth $5.2 million?
Yes, close to it—one sold for $5 million in 2007, and values range from $3.1 to $8.1 million.
Are these nickels still in circulation?
Unlikely, as all five are known, but a sixth could exist in old collections or jars.
How do I spot a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel?
Look for “1913,” Lady Liberty, a “V” on the back, no mint mark, and check weight (5 grams).
What should I do if I find one?
Don’t clean it, store it in a coin holder, get it graded by PCGS or NGC, and sell via auctions.
How can I avoid fake nickels?
Check for clear details, correct weight, and get professional grading from PCGS or NGC.