1913 Liberty Nickel

While its design is simple and straight-forward, this coin inspires many.

Just five 1913 Liberty Head nickels were produced under mysterious circumstances when the United States Mint was changing from the Liberty Head to the Buffalo design. When collectors learned years later that these coins existed, they became a chief object of admiration. Despite their clouded origins, they now rank among the most coveted and valuable of all U.S. coins. In fact, a 1913 Liberty Nickel was the first U.S. coin to trade at auction for over $1 million.

The five coins remained as a set until the 1940s, when they were separated and sold. Two are now in private collection including the pictured example from the National Numismatic Collection. Three remain in private hands.