Penny worth Money: Have you ever heard of the legendary 1913 Liberty Head nickel? Dubbed the “Holy Grail” of U.S. coins, this mysterious coin shouldn’t even exist, yet it’s one of the most sought-after collectibles in the numismatic world. With only five known examples, this rare nickel has captured the fascination of collectors and historians alike.
Let’s dive into the fascinating story behind this coin and uncover why it commands millions of dollars at auctions.
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The Story Behind the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head nickel is steeped in mystery. Officially, the U.S. Mint transitioned from the Liberty Head design to the Buffalo nickel in 1913. No records exist indicating that Liberty Head nickels were minted that year, making their existence an enigma.
The first 1913 nickel surfaced in December 1919 when Samuel W. Brown, a former Mint employee, showcased five coins at a Chicago Coin Club meeting. Brown later displayed them at the 1920 American Numismatic Association (ANA) Convention, sparking intrigue and speculation.
Some believe the coins were minted illicitly by a Mint employee, while others theorize they were commissioned for wealthy collectors. Regardless of their origin, these coins have become a symbol of rarity and historical significance.
Unique Features of the Liberty Head Nickel
Designed by Charles Barber, the Liberty Head nickel features:
- Obverse (Front): Lady Liberty, surrounded by stars representing the original states.
- Reverse (Back): A Roman numeral “V” (five) encircled by a wreath.
The coin weighs five grams and consists of 25% nickel and 75% copper, giving it its characteristic color. However, earlier versions from 1883 lacked the word “cents,” leading to counterfeiting. Scammers plated these coins with gold and passed them off as $5 gold pieces, prompting the U.S. Mint to update the design later that year.
The Auction Prices of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The five known 1913 Liberty Head nickels have changed hands several times, often fetching astronomical prices. Here’s a breakdown of the most recent auction figures:
| Grade | Auction House | Sold Price |
|---|---|---|
| Proof 63 | Heritage Auctions | $3,172,500 |
| Proof 64 | Private Sale | $3,290,000 |
| Proof 66 | Stacks Bowers Auction | $4,560,000 |
Two coins are housed in prestigious museums:
- Smithsonian National Numismatic Collection (graded Proof 62).
- ANA Money Museum (graded Proof 55).
Are There More 1913 Liberty Head Nickels?
Interestingly, a leather holder believed to house the original 1913 nickels was sold in 2017. It featured eight slots, suggesting the possibility of three more coins. This discovery fuels speculation that additional 1913 nickels may still be out there, waiting to be uncovered.
Collectors are advised to verify the authenticity of any potential find, as this coin is one of the most counterfeited in U.S. history. Proper certification is crucial to confirm its legitimacy.
Why Coin Collectors Should Pay Attention
The 1913 Liberty Head nickel serves as a reminder of the hidden treasures that could be lurking in your collection. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a novice, keep an eye on your nickels – you might just strike gold (or, in this case, nickel).
What do you think? Could there be more undiscovered 1913 Liberty Head nickels out there? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Conclusion
The 1913 Liberty Head V nickel is more than just a coin; it’s a piece of history wrapped in intrigue and rarity. With millions of dollars at stake, it continues to captivate collectors and numismatists worldwide. If you enjoyed learning about this legendary coin, please like, share, and subscribe for more fascinating stories from the world of coin collecting.
Looking for more exciting numismatic tales? Check out our video on another controversial nickel – link in the upper corner!