1913 Liberty Head Nickel Value
1913 · 5¢ · 75% copper, 25% nickel
Value by Grade
| Grade | Est. Value |
|---|---|
| Poor (P-1) | $2,000,000 |
| Good (G-4) | $3,000,000 |
| Fine (F-12) | $4,000,000 |
| Uncirculated (MS-63) | $5,000,000 |
| Gem (MS-65) | $15,000,000 |
| Perfect (MS-70) | $75,000,000 |
Key Dates & Rare Varieties
| Date/Variety | Why It's Special | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1913 | Only 5 known — Eliasberg specimen sold for $4.56M in 2018 | $3,000,000–$5,000,000 |
| 1913 | Walton specimen, lost for 40+ years, authenticated 2003 | $3,000,000–$4,500,000 |
| 1913 | Olsen specimen, displayed at ANA conventions | $3,000,000–$4,500,000 |
Coin Specifications
- Designer
- Charles E. Barber
- Years
- 1913
- Denomination
- 5¢
- Composition
- 75% copper, 25% nickel
- Diameter
- 21.2 mm
- Weight
- 5 g
Quick Value
Where to Buy/Sell
1913 Liberty Head Nickel: History & Background
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of the most famous and valuable coins in numismatic history. Only five specimens are known to exist, and they were never officially authorized by the US Mint. Samuel Brown, a former Mint employee, is believed to have struck them clandestinely. The coins first appeared publicly in 1920 when Brown placed an ad offering to buy them. One specimen — the Eliasberg coin — sold for $4.56 million in 2018, and the Walton specimen was authenticated in 2003 after being lost for decades.
How to Grade a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
Accurate grading is the single most important factor in determining a coin's value. A difference of just a few grade points can mean 10× or more in value. Examine the highest points of the design first — these are where wear appears earliest. For the finest grades, luster, strike quality, and surface preservation all matter. Professional grading by PCGS or NGC adds certainty and typically increases resale value. Read our complete grading guide →