You might not think twice about the loose change jingling in your pocket, but one rare coin could turn a simple nickel into a fortune. The 1913 Liberty Head Buffalo Nickel is a collector’s dream, with some fetching up to $900,000 at auctions. This coin, with its iconic buffalo and Native American profile, has a fascinating history and a few rare versions that make it incredibly valuable. Let’s dive into why this nickel is so special and how you might spot one in your change.
A Coin with a Wild History
The Buffalo Nickel, officially called the Indian Head Nickel, was minted from 1913 to 1938. Designed by James Earle Fraser, it features a Native American on one side and a buffalo on the other, capturing the spirit of the American West. But the 1913 version is where the real story begins. Only five 1913 Liberty Head Nickels were ever made, and they weren’t supposed to exist. These coins were struck in secret at the Philadelphia Mint, making them one of the rarest finds in American coin collecting.
Why Is It Worth So Much?
The value of the 1913 Liberty Head Buffalo Nickel comes from its scarcity and mystery. Since only five were made, they’re incredibly hard to find. One sold for $900,000 at a 2018 auction, and another went for over $3 million in the past. The condition of the coin matters too—coins in pristine shape, called “proof” condition, fetch the highest prices. Collectors also love the story behind these coins, as their unauthorized creation adds a layer of intrigue that drives up demand.
How to Spot a Valuable Nickel
Could you have one of these nickels in your change? It’s unlikely but not impossible. Here’s what to look for:
- Year: Check for “1913” on the coin. Most Buffalo Nickels are from later years, so this is the first clue.
- Design: The Liberty Head version has a different look from regular Buffalo Nickels. The Native American’s profile and the buffalo are sharper and more detailed.
- Mint Mark: Look for an “S” or no mint mark (Philadelphia Mint). The rare 1913 coins don’t have a “D” (Denver) or other marks.
- Condition: A shiny, well-preserved coin is more likely to be valuable.
If you find a 1913 nickel, don’t clean it! Cleaning can ruin its value. Take it to a professional coin dealer for appraisal.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 1913 |
| Design | Liberty Head Buffalo Nickel |
| Mint Mark | None or “S” |
| Estimated Value | Up to $900,000 or more |
Where Might You Find One?
These rare nickels aren’t likely to show up in your everyday change, but stranger things have happened. Old coin collections, inherited jars of change, or even flea market finds could hold a treasure. Coin collectors often check estate sales or antique shops for hidden gems. If you’re a coin enthusiast, keep an eye out at coin shows or online auctions, but beware of fakes—counterfeit 1913 nickels are out there, so always verify with an expert.
What to Do If You Think You Have One
If you suspect you’ve found a 1913 Liberty Head Buffalo Nickel, handle it carefully. Store it in a soft cloth or plastic holder to avoid scratches. Contact a reputable coin dealer or appraiser, like those certified by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS). They can confirm if it’s real and estimate its value. Even if it’s not one of the five famous coins, other Buffalo Nickels from 1913 can still be worth hundreds or thousands, depending on their condition.
The next time you empty your pockets, take a closer look at those nickels. A simple five-cent coin could be your ticket to a small fortune. The 1913 Liberty Head Buffalo Nickel is a reminder that treasures can hide in plain sight, waiting for a sharp-eyed collector to discover them.