A Nickel That Changed Everything
Imagine handing over a nickel for a stick of gum—only to discover years later it was worth millions. That’s the true story behind the 1913 Liberty Head Buffalo Nickel, one of the rarest and most valuable coins in U.S. history. In the 1920s, a young boy unknowingly spent this rare coin on candy. Nearly a century later, that same nickel was sold at auction for an astounding $4.2 million.
Why the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel Is So Rare
What makes this coin so special? It’s an error that was never supposed to exist.
In 1913, the U.S. Mint transitioned from the Liberty Head design to the iconic Buffalo Nickel. However, five Liberty Head nickels were mistakenly produced that year—and only five are known to exist today. Because of this extreme rarity, these coins are now considered the “holy grail” of American numismatics.
The coin features:
- A Liberty Head profile on the front (instead of a Native American).
- The classic buffalo reverse design.
- Crisp details that skyrocket its value, especially in mint condition.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Normal Buffalo Nickel | 1913 Liberty Head Nickel |
|---|---|---|
| Years Minted | 1913–1938 | 1913 only (error issue) |
| Obverse Design | Native American | Liberty Head profile |
| Reverse Design | American Bison | American Bison |
| Estimated Quantity | Millions | Only 5 known |
| Top Sale Price | Less than $1,000 | $4.2 million |
A Candy Deal That Turned Into Millions
In the 1920s, a child in Philadelphia used one of these rare Liberty Head nickels to buy a pack of gum—completely unaware of its true value. The coin circulated quietly until a collector noticed something strange about it decades later.
By the 1960s, coin experts had confirmed only five 1913 Liberty Head nickels existed. The one spent on candy resurfaced and went through several private hands before ending up at a 2023 auction, where it sold for a jaw-dropping $4.2 million to a private buyer.
Could One Be in Your House Right Now?
Yes, it’s possible. These coins are not impossible to find—they might be sitting in:
- Old family coin jars
- Inherited collections
- Forgotten attic boxes
- Antique flea market finds
Look closely at any nickels with the 1913 date. If you see the Liberty Head profile instead of a Native American, you could be holding something incredibly valuable.
Remember: never clean a potentially valuable coin—doing so can dramatically reduce its worth. Instead, visit a certified coin dealer or a professional grading service for verification.
How to Spot a Rare 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
Here’s what to look for if you think you’ve found one:
- Date: Must say 1913
- Obverse: Features a woman’s Liberty profile, not a Native American
- Condition: Sharper detail = higher value
- Rarity: Only five confirmed examples exist
- Beware of fakes: Many counterfeit versions have circulated; always consult an expert
Bottom Line: Don’t Dismiss Your Spare Change
The story of the nickel traded for gum proves that even the most ordinary-looking coins can hide extraordinary value. The 1913 Liberty Head Buffalo Nickel continues to fascinate collectors and treasure hunters alike.
So before you toss that old nickel in your junk drawer, take a closer look—it might just be your golden ticket to a multi-million dollar payday.
FAQs
1. What’s the difference between a 1913 Liberty Head and a regular Buffalo Nickel?
The Liberty Head features a woman’s profile on the front, while the Buffalo Nickel features a Native American. Only five Liberty Head nickels were made in 1913.
2. Why is this coin worth $4.2 million?
Its value comes from extreme rarity (only 5 exist), historical significance, and excellent preservation.
3. Can I find one in circulation today?
Highly unlikely, but not impossible. They might still exist in old collections, estate sales, or forgotten storage boxes.
4. What should I do if I think I found one?
Do not clean it. Keep it safe and take it to a reputable coin dealer or grading service like PCGS or NGC for authentication.