The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel: In the world of rare coins, few are as iconic as the 1913 Liberty Head nickel. Known for its unauthorized production and extreme scarcity, this coin has become a centerpiece of numismatic lore. Among the five known specimens, the Walton specimen is particularly famous for its storied history and record-breaking sales. In April 2013, it fetched an astounding $3,172,500 at auction, surpassing its pre-sale estimate of $2.5 million and captivating collectors worldwide.
This article explores the fascinating story of the 1913 Liberty Head nickel, its journey through history, and why it remains one of the most sought-after treasures in the coin-collecting community.
Overview of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
| Detail | 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 |
The Mystery of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head nickel is shrouded in mystery. Despite official records showing no production of Liberty Head nickels in 1913, five specimens emerged, leaving collectors and historians to speculate about their origins. The prevailing theory is that a U.S. Mint employee secretly struck these coins, either as a personal project or for private collectors.
This intrigue, combined with the coin’s striking design and rarity, has made the 1913 Liberty Head nickel one of the most desirable items in American numismatics.
The Walton Specimen: From Obscurity to Fame
Among the five known examples, the Walton specimen has one of the most captivating backstories. Its journey from an overlooked heirloom to a record-breaking auction piece is the stuff of legend.
A Coin Lost to Time
In 1945, George O. Walton purchased the coin for $3,750, a significant sum for its time. Walton became a prominent collector and often displayed the coin at shows. Tragically, in 1962, he died in a car accident while traveling to exhibit the nickel. The coin was recovered from the crash site but was incorrectly deemed counterfeit by appraisers. As a result, it remained hidden in a closet for over 40 years.
Rediscovery and Validation
In 2003, during a nationwide search for the missing fifth 1913 Liberty Head nickel, Walton’s heirs decided to have the coin re-examined. This time, experts authenticated it as genuine, bringing the coin back into the spotlight.
A Record-Breaking Auction
The Walton specimen’s rediscovery and validation culminated in a historic auction in April 2013. The coin sold for $3,172,500, exceeding expectations and solidifying its place as one of the most valuable rare coins ever sold
Why Is the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel So Valuable?
The 1913 Liberty Head nickel owes its immense value to a combination of factors:
- Extreme Rarity: Only five specimens exist, making it one of the rarest coins in American history.
- Unauthorized Minting: The coin’s creation outside of official records adds an air of intrigue that fascinates collectors.
- Historic Significance: The coin represents a unique chapter in U.S. Mint history and serves as a symbol of the craftsmanship of its era.
- Iconic Design: The Liberty Head design, paired with the coin’s mysterious origins, makes it highly desirable.
Recent Sales and Current Ownership
The Walton specimen has changed hands several times since its 2013 auction, further cementing its status as a numismatic legend:
- 2018: Sold privately for an estimated $3 to $4 million.
- 2022: Acquired by GreatCollections Coin Auctions for $4.2 million, marking another milestone in its storied history.
Today, the coin is displayed at the American Numismatic Association Museum in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where it continues to inspire collectors and enthusiasts.
The Five Known Specimens
The 1913 Liberty Head nickel is unique in that all five examples are accounted for, with two housed in museums and three in private collections. Each coin has its own remarkable story:
Museum Holdings
- Smithsonian Institution Specimen: This coin is permanently displayed at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
- American Numismatic Association Specimen: Known as the McDermott specimen, this coin is a popular attraction at the ANA Museum.
Privately Held Specimens
- Eliasberg Specimen: Often regarded as the finest example, it holds the record sale price of $4,560,000 in 2018.
- Walton Specimen: Now owned by GreatCollections Coin Auctions and displayed at the ANA Museum.
- Norweb Specimen: This coin has passed through several high-profile collectors and remains a cornerstone of private collections.
FAQs
Q1: Why is the 1913 Liberty Head nickel so rare?
A: Only five were minted, likely without authorization, making it one of the rarest coins in U.S. history.
Q2: How many 1913 Liberty Head nickels exist today?
A: Five examples are known—two in museums and three in private collections.
Q3: What makes the Walton specimen unique?
A: The Walton specimen was lost for over 40 years before being authenticated. Its dramatic rediscovery and auction success add to its mystique.
Q4: Where can I see the Walton specimen?
A: It is currently on display at the American Numismatic Association Museum in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Q5: What is the most expensive 1913 Liberty Head nickel ever sold?
A: The Eliasberg specimen holds the record, selling for $4,560,000 in 2018.
Final Thoughts
The 1913 Liberty Head nickel is much more than a coin—it’s a numismatic masterpiece steeped in mystery, history, and extraordinary value. Its story, from unauthorized minting to multimillion-dollar sales, reflects the enduring allure of rare coins. The Walton specimen, in particular, stands out for its dramatic journey, captivating collectors and enthusiasts alike.
If you ever get the chance to see this coin in person, whether at a museum or through a collector’s showcase, take a moment to appreciate its significance. It’s a reminder of the fascinating stories that even the smallest pieces of history can tell.
Do you have a passion for coins or an interesting numismatic story to share? Join the conversation in the comments below and connect with a community of collectors who celebrate the art and history behind these incredible treasures.
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