The $5 Million Liberty Nickel & Other Rare Coins That Revolutionized Collecting

The world of coin collecting is enshrined within an ivory tower precinct, a glittering collection that dazzles the eyes of not just collectors but also historians and investors with plenty of old treasures. Some coins are rare because they are ancient; others gain their value from the events that took place around them, while some remain unsubstantial most of the time, only best described mysteriously. One of the most famous and sought-after coins that has been prized throughout history is the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, which is so rare that it is known today to have only five such coins.

The 1913 Liberty Nickel was just another one of the many rare coins that has changed the course of numismatic collecting. This article presents the engrossing tale behind this legendary coin and seven other amazing coins that have altered the face of coin collecting.

The Mysterious 1913 Liberty Head Nickel

The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel has engraved itself into the American history books as perhaps the most legendary coin ever minted. It can never be officially listed as having been struck, although five specimens magically appeared, sure to provoke excitement and speculation–and intrigue–among numismatists.

A Coin That Should Not Exist

In 1913, the U.S. Mint officially replaced the Liberty Head Nickel with the Buffalo Nickel. According to mint records, no Liberty Head Nickels were struck that year. However, five specimens managed to enter the coin-collecting world, baffling experts for more than a century.

The Role of Samuel W. Brown

Many historians believe that these coins were secretly struck by a U.S. Mint employee named Samuel W. Brown. Brown was the first person to publicly mention the coins when he placed an ad in 1919, offering to buy any 1913 Liberty Nickels for $500 each. This led many to suspect that he had been involved in their creation.

A Multi-Million Dollar Rarity

Over the years, the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel has changed hands among some of the world’s most prestigious collectors. The coin’s value has continued to rise, with one example selling for $4.5 million in 2018.

Where Are the 1913 Liberty Nickels Today?

Three coins are currently housed in museums, including the Smithsonian Institution and the ANA Money Museum.
Two coins remain in private collections, each valued at more than $5 million.
The story behind these coins remains one of the greatest unsolved mysteries in numismatics, adding to their desirability among collectors.

7 More Coins That Transformed Coin Collecting

While the 1913 Liberty Nickel is one of the most famous rare coins, several other coins have had a lasting impact on numismatics. Below are seven of the most valuable and historically significant coins ever sold.

1. 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle –

The Most Expensive Coin Ever Sold Minted in 1933 but never officially released, this gold coin became one of the rarest in U.S. history.
In 2021, a single specimen was sold for $18.9 million, setting a world record for the most expensive coin ever sold.

2. 1787 Brasher Doubloon –

America’s First Gold Coin Struck by goldsmith Ephraim Brasher, the Brasher Doubloon is one of the first gold coins minted in the U.S.
In 2021, an example of this coin sold for $9.36 million, making it one of the most valuable gold coins in history.

3. 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar –

The First U.S. Silver Dollar The 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar is believed to be one of the first silver dollars struck by the U.S. Mint.
Due to its historical significance and extreme rarity, this coin sold at auction for $10,016,875 in 2013.

4. 1804 Silver Dollar –

“The King of American Coins” The 1804 Silver Dollar is one of the most famous and highly sought-after rare coins.
Often referred to as the “King of American Coins”, a single specimen was sold for $4.14 million, highlighting its prestige and desirability.

5. 723 Umayyad Gold Dinar –

A Rare Islamic Treasure Struck in 723 AD, the Umayyad Gold Dinar is one of the most valuable Islamic coins in history.
In 2011, an example of this ancient coin was sold for $4.78 million, proving its significance beyond the Western numismatic world.

6. 1343 Edward III Florin –

A Medieval English Gem Known as the “Double Leopard”, the 1343 Edward III Florin is one of the rarest medieval coins from England.
With only three known specimens, one was sold for $6.8 million, making it one of the most expensive medieval coins ever auctioned.

7. 1849 Double Eagle –

A Unique and Priceless Coin The 1849 Double Eagle was the first-ever $20 gold coin struck in the United States.
Only one specimen exists, currently kept at the Smithsonian Institution. Experts estimate its value at over $20 million, making it one of the most valuable coins in history.

Conclusion

The world of rare coin collecting is a fascinating blend of history, mystery, and immense value. Whether it’s the enigmatic 1913 Liberty Head Nickel or the record-breaking 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle, these coins have reshaped the field of numismatics and continue to attract collectors worldwide.

The rarity, historical significance, and compelling backstories of these coins make them priceless artifacts in the eyes of collectors and historians alike. As time goes on, their values are only expected to increase, solidifying their places as some of the most remarkable coins ever discovered.

FAQs