Rare 1913 Liberty Head Nickel Worth $6.25 Million

Introduction

The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the rarest and most valuable coins in American numismatic history. With only five known specimens in existence, this coin has fascinated collectors and investors for over a century. If you happen to own one, you could be sitting on a fortune—one of these nickels sold for an astounding $6.25 million at auction!

Could you have this rare coin in your collection? Let’s explore its history, key features, valuation, and how to sell it for maximum profit.

History of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel

The Liberty Head Nickel, designed by Charles E. Barber, was minted from 1883 to 1912. However, in 1913, the U.S. Mint transitioned to the Buffalo Nickel, making the Liberty Head Nickel obsolete.

Despite this, five Liberty Head Nickels dated 1913 mysteriously surfaced—but they were never officially authorized for production. It is believed that an insider at the Philadelphia Mint struck them secretly, possibly for private sale or as a collector’s piece. By the 1920s, these nickels gained legendary status.

Key Features of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel

If you suspect you have a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, check for these characteristics:

Obverse (Front)

Portrait of Lady Liberty facing left, wearing a coronet inscribed with “LIBERTY”.
Thirteen stars surrounding the portrait, representing the original American colonies.
Date “1913” at the bottom.

Reverse (Back)

A large Roman numeral “V” (5) in the center, denoting its denomination.
“E PLURIBUS UNUM” inscribed above.
“UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “CENTS” below the numeral.

Unique Minting Details

No mint mark (as it was supposedly struck in Philadelphia).
Very sharp details and proof-like surfaces, as the coins were not intended for general circulation.

Rare 1913 Liberty Head Nickel Worth $6.25 Million – Do You Have One?

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Value of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel

The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the most expensive coins ever sold. Here’s a look at its valuation:

Condition (Grade)	Estimated Value
Fine (F-12)	$1.5 million – $2.5 million
Extremely Fine (EF-40)	$3 million – $4 million
About Uncirculated (AU-50)	$5 million – $5.5 million
Mint State (MS-63)	$6 million – $6.25 million

One of the most famous 1913 Liberty Head Nickels—the Eliasberg specimen—sold for $6.25 million in 2021. Another sold for $4.56 million in a private transaction.

How to Identify an Authentic 1913 Liberty Head Nickel

If you think you have this rare coin, follow these steps:

Step 1: Check the Date

Ensure the coin clearly shows 1913 below Lady Liberty’s portrait. If it does, it’s time for further verification.

Step 2: Examine the Details

Look for sharp, proof-like details that differ from common Liberty Head Nickels from 1883-1912.

Step 3: Use a Magnet

A real 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel, meaning it is not magnetic. If your coin sticks to a magnet, it’s likely fake.

Step 4: Seek Professional Authentication

The only way to confirm its authenticity is by having it graded by a certified numismatic authority such as PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company).

Where to Sell a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel

Owning a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is like holding a piece of history. Here’s how to sell it for the highest price:

1. Major Auction Houses

Top auction houses like Heritage Auctions, Stack’s Bowers, and Sotheby’s specialize in rare coins and can attract high-value bidders.

2. Private Collectors

Some wealthy numismatists are willing to pay millions for a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel in private sales.

3. Online Coin Marketplaces

Websites like PCGS CoinFacts Marketplace and GreatCollections allow you to list rare coins for sale.

4. Coin Shows & Conventions

Attending a major numismatic event can help you network with high-end collectors and dealers.

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Conclusion

The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the rarest and most valuable coins ever minted. With only five known specimens, its value has skyrocketed to as much as $6.25 million.

If you believe you own a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, have it professionally authenticated and graded to confirm its legitimacy. Whether you choose to sell it or hold onto it, this coin is a true treasure in the world of numismatics.

FAQs

1. Why is the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel so valuable?

Only five coins were ever produced, making it one of the rarest U.S. coins in existence. Its mysterious origin and high collector demand drive its astronomical value.

2. How can I tell if my 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is real?

Examine the date, look for proof-like surfaces, check its non-magnetic properties, and get it authenticated by PCGS or NGC.

3. What is the most expensive 1913 Liberty Head Nickel ever sold?

The Eliasberg specimen sold for $6.25 million in 2021, making it the highest-priced example to date.

4. Can I sell a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel without grading it?

While possible, grading by PCGS or NGC significantly increases buyer confidence and ensures a higher selling price.

5. Where should I sell my 1913 Liberty Head Nickel?

The best options include major auction houses, private collectors, and numismatic marketplaces.