The world of coin collecting is often punctuated by remarkable sales that capture the attention of enthusiasts and investors alike. One such event occurred in April 2013 when a 1913 Liberty Head nickel, known as the Walton specimen, was auctioned for an astounding $3,172,500, surpassing its pre-sale estimate of $2.5 million.
A Glimpse into the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head nickel holds a unique place in American numismatic history. Despite the U.S. Mint’s official records indicating no production of Liberty Head nickels in 1913, five specimens mysteriously emerged, captivating collectors worldwide. These coins were produced without official authorization, adding to their allure and rarity.
The Walton Specimen: A Journey Through Time
Among the five known 1913 Liberty Head nickels, the Walton specimen boasts a particularly intriguing history. In 1945, collector George O. Walton acquired this coin for approximately $3,750. Tragically, in 1962, Walton perished in a car accident while en route to a coin show where he intended to display the nickel. The coin was recovered from the crash site but was mistakenly deemed a counterfeit and remained hidden in a closet for over four decades.
In 2003, a nationwide search for the missing fifth 1913 Liberty Head nickel led Walton’s heirs to re-examine the coin. Experts authenticated it as genuine, and in April 2013, it was auctioned for $3,172,500, significantly exceeding its estimated value of $2.5 million.
Key Details of the Walton Specimen
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Year of Minting | 1913 |
| Design | Liberty Head |
| Original Owner | Samuel W. Brown |
| Notable Owners | George O. Walton, Walton Family, Jeff Garrett, Larry Lee, Firman Family |
| Auction Sale Date | April 2013 |
| Auction Sale Price | $3,172,500 |
| Current Owner | GreatCollections Coin Auctions (as of October 2022) |
| Current Location | American Numismatic Association Museum, Colorado Springs, Colorado |
The Rarity and Value of the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head nickel’s value is primarily driven by its rarity and the mystery surrounding its creation. Only five specimens are known to exist, with two housed in museums and three in private collections. The coin’s unauthorized minting adds to its mystique, making it one of the most coveted pieces in numismatic circles.
Recent Sales and Current Status
Following its 2013 auction, the Walton specimen changed hands several times. In June 2018, it was sold in a private sale reported to be between $3 and $4 million. Later, in October 2022, the Firman family sold the coin to GreatCollections Coin Auctions for $4,200,000. The coin is currently on display at the American Numismatic Association Museum in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
FAQs
Why is the 1913 Liberty Head nickel so valuable?
Its value stems from its extreme rarity, with only five known specimens, and the intriguing circumstances of its unauthorized minting.
How many 1913 Liberty Head nickels exist today?
There are five known specimens: two in museums and three in private collections.
What makes the Walton specimen unique among the five?
The Walton specimen has a storied history, including being lost for over 40 years before its authentication and subsequent high-profile sales.
Where can the Walton specimen be viewed?
As of October 2022, it is on display at the American Numismatic Association Museum in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
What was the highest sale price for a 1913 Liberty Head nickel?
The highest recorded sale was $4,560,000 for the Eliasberg specimen in August 2018.
The 1913 Liberty Head nickel continues to captivate collectors and historians, not only for its rarity but also for the rich tapestry of stories that accompany each specimen. Its journey from an unauthorized minting to multi-million-dollar auctions underscores the enduring allure of numismatic treasures.
