The Liberty Head Nickel was officially replaced by the Buffalo Nickel in 1913, yet the five 1913 Liberty Head Nickels surfaced under mysterious circumstances, as there are no official records of their minting.
These nickels have fetched extraordinary prices at auctions. For instance, one of the nickels was sold at auction by the Walton heirs in April 2013 for US$3,172,500, significantly above an estimated value of US$2,500,000.
Beyond their monetary value, these nickels have also made a significant impact on popular culture, featuring in books, articles, and TV shows, indicating their fascinating story and their ability to capture the imagination of a broader audience.
Theories abound about the origins of these coins, with some suggesting they were struck under clandestine circumstances by a mint employee. These ongoing mysteries continue to intrigue experts and amateurs alike.
In a notable recent transaction, GreatCollections acquired the finest-known 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, along with other high-grade coins, in a deal worth $13.35 million.