1913 5C Liberty (Proof)

The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the most famous and rarest coins in American numismatic history. Often referred to as the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, it is indeed a proof coin with only five known specimens. Its creation dates back to a transitional year between the Liberty Head and the Buffalo nickel series, making the existence of these Liberty Nickels both intriguing and significant. ### Historical Background The Liberty Head Nickel series officially ended in 1912, with the design set to change to the Indian Head (Buffalo) Nickel in 1913. However, five specimens of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel were reportedly struck at the Philadelphia Mint under enigmatic circumstances. These coins were likely produced in secret, possibly by an insider at the Mint, making their journey into the numismatic world a mystery that still captivates enthusiasts today. ### Rarity and Mintage The rarity of the 1913 Liberty Nickel cannot be overstated, with only five coins minted. The precise circumstances of their production remain unsolved, generating significant fascination and legendary status among collectors. The mintage figure of just five coins ensures that every sale and auction of these nickels garners substantial attention. ### Known Specimens and Sales Out of the five known specimens, each has its own story and provenance: 1. **The Eliasberg Specimen:** Sold for $5 million in a private sale in 2007 and set numerous records for U.S. coin sales at public auctions. 2. **The Olsen Specimen:** Featured on an episode of "Hawaii Five-O" and sold for over $3 million in a private transaction in 2010. 3. **The Norweb Specimen:** Acquired by the Norweb family and later sold for nearly $3 million at auction. 4. **The McDermott Specimen:** Known for its heavily worn condition due to extensive public exhibition. 5. **The "Hawaii Five-O" Specimen:** Unique for its extensive media exposure, also documented in numerous sales, with notable transactions reaching into the millions. ### Numismatic Significance For collectors, the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is more than just a coin; it is a piece of mystery and a trophy within the elite circles of numismatics. Every sale is a major event, capturing attention not only for its rarity but for the high values it fetches. ### Value The value of the 1913 Liberty Nickel is monumental, consistently achieving multimillion-dollar figures at auctions. Due to its rarity and the strong demand amongst collectors, its market value continues to rise. Collectors and investors view ownership of this coin as a pinnacle achievement, making it a valuable asset in any numismatic portfolio. ### PCGS Information According to PCGS CoinFacts, the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel holds the PCGS number 3879. The grade distinctions and sale prices are meticulously cataloged to provide collectors and enthusiasts with comprehensive historical data. ### Legacy The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel remains an icon in American numismatic history. Its allure extends beyond mere financial value; it embodies mystery, history, and the fascination of rare collectibles. As a result, it holds a revered place in the pantheon of celebrated coins, continuously captivating new generations of collectors and experts alike.