The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel:The 1913 Liberty Head nickel stands as one of the most legendary coins in numismatic history. With its unauthorized minting, extreme rarity, and captivating backstory, it has become a centerpiece for collectors worldwide. Among the five known specimens, the Walton specimen has achieved unparalleled fame, highlighted by its $3,172,500 sale at auction in April 2013.
This article delves into the fascinating history of the 1913 Liberty Head nickel, its mysterious origins, and why it remains a coveted gem in the coin-collecting community.
Overview of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Year of Minting | 1913 |
| Design | Liberty Head |
| Original Owner | Samuel W. Brown |
| Notable Owners | George O. Walton, Walton Family, Jeff Garrett, Larry Lee, Firman Family |
| Auction Sale Date | April 2013 |
| Auction Sale Price | $3,172,500 |
| Current Owner | GreatCollections Coin Auctions |
| Current Location | American Numismatic Association Museum, Colorado Springs, Colorado |
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The Mystery Behind the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
Despite no official records of Liberty Head nickels being minted in 1913, five specimens surfaced, sparking intrigue and speculation. The prevailing theory is that a U.S. Mint employee secretly produced these coins, possibly as a personal endeavor or for private collectors.
This unauthorized minting, combined with the coin’s striking design and scarcity, has made it one of the most sought-after treasures in American numismatics.
The Walton Specimen: A Legendary Journey
A Coin Lost to Time
In 1945, George O. Walton purchased the coin for $3,750, a hefty sum at the time. Walton frequently displayed the coin until his tragic death in a car accident in 1962. The coin was recovered but mistakenly deemed counterfeit and remained hidden for over 40 years.
Rediscovery and Validation
In 2003, during a search for the missing fifth specimen, Walton’s heirs had the coin re-examined. Experts authenticated it as genuine, propelling it back into the limelight.
A Record-Breaking Auction
The Walton specimen was auctioned in April 2013 for $3,172,500, exceeding its pre-sale estimate of $2.5 million. This historic sale underscored the coin’s value and solidified its legendary status.
Why Is the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel So Valuable?
The immense value of the 1913 Liberty Head nickel stems from several factors:
- Extreme Rarity: Only five specimens exist, making it one of the rarest coins in U.S. history.
- Unauthorized Minting: Its unofficial creation adds intrigue and mystique.
- Historic Significance: It represents a unique chapter in the U.S. Mint’s history.
- Iconic Design: The Liberty Head design enhances its appeal to collectors.
Recent Sales and Current Ownership
The Walton specimen continues to capture attention in the numismatic world:
- 2018: Sold privately for an estimated $3–$4 million.
- 2022: Acquired by GreatCollections Coin Auctions for $4.2 million.
Today, the coin is displayed at the American Numismatic Association Museum in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where it inspires collectors and enthusiasts alike.
The Five Known Specimens
Museum Holdings
- Smithsonian Institution Specimen: Displayed at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.
- American Numismatic Association Specimen: The McDermott specimen is housed at the ANA Museum.
Privately Held Specimens
- Eliasberg Specimen: Sold for a record $4,560,000 in 2018.
- Walton Specimen: Owned by GreatCollections and displayed at the ANA Museum.
- Norweb Specimen: A prized piece in private collections.
Final Thoughts
The 1913 Liberty Head nickel is more than a rare coin—it is a symbol of intrigue, craftsmanship, and historical significance. With only five specimens in existence, its value and allure are unmatched in the numismatic world.
Whether displayed in museums or held in private collections, this coin continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts, securing its place as a timeless treasure in American history.