In an astonishing turn of events, a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, one of the rarest coins in American history, has been discovered hidden within an old piano bench.
This unexpected find has captivated the numismatic community and collectors worldwide, shedding light on the mysterious origins and immense value of this elusive coin.
The Enigmatic 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is surrounded by intrigue and rarity. Officially, the U.S. Mint ceased production of Liberty Head nickels in 1912, transitioning to the Buffalo nickel in 1913.
However, five Liberty Head nickels bearing the 1913 date somehow emerged, despite no official records of their minting.
Key Features of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
- Obverse Design: Features Lady Liberty’s profile with the date “1913” at the bottom.
- Reverse Design: Displays a large Roman numeral “V” (denoting five cents), encircled by “United States of America” and “E Pluribus Unum.”
- Composition: Comprised of 75% copper and 25% nickel.
- Mintage: Only five specimens are confirmed to exist.
The Remarkable Discovery
In April 2025, a family in the United States stumbled upon a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel concealed within the cushion of an antique piano bench. Unaware of its significance, they consulted a coin expert who confirmed its authenticity.
This particular coin is believed to be the long-lost Walton specimen, named after George O. Walton, a collector who perished in a car accident in 1962. The coin had been presumed lost for decades until its recent rediscovery.
The Coin’s Astonishing Value
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is not just rare; it’s immensely valuable. One specimen sold for $7.7 million in a private transaction, setting a record for the highest price ever paid for a nickel.
Notable Sales of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel:
| Specimen Name | Sale Price | Year of Sale | Current Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eliasberg | $5 million | 2007 | Private Collection |
| Olsen | $3.7 million | 2010 | Private Collection |
| Walton | $3.1 million | 2013 | Private Collection |
| McDermott | Donated | 1989 | ANA Money Museum |
| Norweb | Donated | 1978 | Smithsonian Institution |
The Allure of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
Collectors and enthusiasts are drawn to the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel for several reasons:
- Historical Significance: Represents a mysterious chapter in U.S. Mint history.
- Rarity: With only five known specimens, it’s one of the rarest U.S. coins.
- Mystique: The coin’s unauthorized creation and elusive nature add to its allure.
- Investment Value: Its high market value makes it a coveted asset among collectors.
The unexpected discovery of a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel in a piano bench serves as a thrilling reminder of the hidden treasures that may lie in everyday objects. This coin’s rich history, rarity, and immense value continue to fascinate collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a curious novice, the story of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel underscores the enduring allure of coin collecting and the mysteries that await discovery.
FAQs
How can I identify a genuine 1913 Liberty Head Nickel?
Authentic 1913 Liberty Head Nickels feature Lady Liberty’s profile on the obverse with the date “1913” and a large “V” on the reverse. Due to numerous counterfeits, it’s essential to have the coin authenticated by a professional numismatist.
Why were the 1913 Liberty Head Nickels minted unofficially?
It’s believed that a Mint employee produced these coins without authorization, possibly as trial pieces or for personal collection, leading to their mysterious origins.
Are there any 1913 Liberty Head Nickels still unaccounted for?
While five specimens are confirmed, rumors persist about a possible sixth coin, though no evidence has surfaced to support this claim.
What should I do if I think I’ve found a rare coin?
If you suspect you’ve discovered a rare coin, consult a reputable coin dealer or numismatic expert for authentication and appraisal.