The Liberty Head nickel was introduced in 1883, designed by Charles Barber, and was the first U.S. nickel to feature a full-length portrait of Liberty.
Between 1883 and 1912, over half a billion of these coins were minted. The Liberty Head nickel was widely circulated and popular until its production was halted in 1912.
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The Rogue 1913 Liberty Head Nickels
Despite the Liberty Head nickel’s official discontinuation in 1912, five additional coins were secretly minted in 1913 by Samuel W. Brown, a U.S. Mint official.
Brown’s actions were illegal, and he kept these coins hidden for five years to avoid prosecution. This discovery would later ignite one of the most famous stories in numismatic history.
A Shrewd Marketing Move
Brown’s marketing strategy turned the 1913 Liberty Head nickels into priceless treasures. He placed ads in numismatic magazines, offering rewards for information about the coins’ locations.
His efforts helped raise the coins’ profile, culminating in their public display at the 1920 ANA Convention. By 1924, all five coins were sold to wealthy collector Colonel E.H.R. Green.
The Coins of Legends: From Collectors to Museums
After Colonel Green’s death in 1936, the five coins passed into the hands of some of the wealthiest collectors, including King Farouk of Egypt and Louis Eliasberg.
Over the years, two of these coins found their place in public museums, with one housed at the Smithsonian and another at the ANA Money Museum.
The Walton Nickel: A $4.2 Million Coin
Among the five coins, the Walton nickel stands out as the most famous. Discovered in 1962, it remained hidden for decades until its rediscovery in 2003.
In 2022, the Walton nickel was sold for a staggering $4.2 million at auction, making it one of the most expensive coins ever sold. This coin’s history is as fascinating as its value.
The Enduring Legacy of Liberty Head Nickels
The story of the 1913 Liberty Head nickel continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts. The coins have become symbols of rarity and immense value, with their legacy firmly cemented in numismatic history.
| Coin Type | Year | Auction Price | Location | Owner/Collection |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Walton Nickel | 1913 | $4.2 Million | Private Collection | GreatCollections |
| Eliasberg Nickel | 1913 | $13.4 Million | Private Collection | GreatCollections |
| Smithsonian Nickel | 1913 | N/A | Smithsonian National Museum | Public Institution |
| ANA Money Museum Coin | 1913 | N/A | ANA Money Museum | Public Institution |
FAQs
What is the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel?
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is a rare coin minted illegally by a U.S. Mint official in 1913 after production had officially stopped. Only five of these coins exist, making them some of the most valuable in numismatic history.
Why is the Walton Nickel worth so much?
The Walton Nickel is particularly valuable due to its rarity and storied history. After being hidden for decades, it was rediscovered in 2003 and later sold for $4.2 million in 2022, setting a record for its value.
How many 1913 Liberty Head Nickels are there?
There are only five 1913 Liberty Head Nickels in existence. These coins were secretly minted and have been sold to various collectors, including some of the wealthiest individuals and institutions.
Where can I see a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel?
Two of the original 1913 Liberty Head Nickels are displayed in public institutions. One is at the Smithsonian National Museum, and the other is at the ANA Money Museum in Colorado.
What makes the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel so special?
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is special due to its illegal minting, the secrecy surrounding its creation, and its subsequent rise in value. These coins are a symbol of rarity and a crucial part of American numismatic history.
