Imagine holding a coin so rare that only five are known to exist, and one recently sold for $4.2 million. That’s the story of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, a legendary piece of U.S. coinage. But here’s the twist—this isn’t the only coin worth a fortune. Hidden among old collections and forgotten change are rare coins that can make collectors’ hearts race. Let’s uncover the secrets behind the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel and five other coins you need to know about.
The Mystery of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel wasn’t supposed to exist. Officially, the U.S. Mint stopped making Liberty nickels in 1912, switching to the Buffalo nickel in 1913. Yet, somehow, five Liberty Head Nickels were struck—likely by a mint insider. Today, each is valued in the millions, making them legendary in the numismatic world.
Why the 1913 Nickel is So Valuable
Scarcity and intrigue drive its price. With only five confirmed coins, each comes with a rich history of owners, including famed collector King Farouk of Egypt. The combination of rarity, mystery, and prestige makes this coin a centerpiece of American coin collecting.
5 More Rare Coins Worth a Fortune
While the 1913 nickel gets the spotlight, other coins carry equally jaw-dropping values.
1. 1804 Draped Bust Dollar
Known as the “King of American Coins,” only 15 exist. Auction prices have soared past $4 million.
2. 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle ($20 Gold Coin)
Most were melted down during the Depression, but a few survived. One sold for over $18.9 million in 2021.
3. 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar
The first silver dollar struck by the U.S. Mint. A pristine version sold for over $10 million.
4. 1943 Copper Penny
During WWII, pennies were supposed to be made of steel. A few copper planchets slipped through, creating a valuable error coin. Some sell for $100,000 to $1.7 million.
5. 2007 $1 Million Canadian Maple Leaf
This coin isn’t old but is remarkable. Made of 220 pounds of pure gold, it’s valued at over $4 million today.
Quick Reference: Rare Coins and Their Values
| Coin Name | Unique Feature | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | Only 5 known to exist | $4M – $5M+ |
| 1804 Draped Bust Dollar | “King of American Coins” | $3M – $4M+ |
| 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle | Rare surviving gold coin | $7M – $18M+ |
| 1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar | First U.S. silver dollar | $5M – $10M+ |
| 1943 Copper Penny | WWII copper error | $100K – $1.7M |
| 2007 Gold Maple Leaf | 220 lbs of pure gold | $3M – $4M+ |
Notable Facts That Will Stun You
- The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel once appeared on the TV show Hawaii Five-O.
- The 1933 Double Eagle is the most valuable coin ever sold.
- Some of these coins were never intended to be released, making them illegal to own at times.
Expert Tips for Coin Collectors
- Learn the history: Understanding a coin’s backstory increases appreciation and helps spot fakes.
- Check authenticity: Always get rare coins certified by PCGS or NGC.
- Hunt smart: Look through inherited collections, old jars, and estate sales—you never know what’s hiding.
FAQs
Q: Can I really find valuable coins in circulation?
A: Yes, though extremely rare. Coins like the 1943 copper penny have been found in pocket change.
Q: How can I tell if my coin is rare?
A: Look for unusual dates, mintmarks, or errors, then compare with coin guides.
Q: Where can I sell rare coins?
A: Auction houses, coin shows, and online marketplaces like Heritage Auctions or eBay.
Conclusion: Small Coins, Big Fortunes
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel proves that a tiny coin can hold massive value. Alongside treasures like the 1933 Double Eagle and the 1943 Copper Penny, these rare coins remind us that history often hides in plain sight. Next time you check your change or explore a coin collection, remember—you could be looking at a million-dollar mystery waiting to be discovered.