The Secret Million-Dollar Coin That Looks Like a Nickel
With inflation climbing and economic uncertainty affecting millions, many people are scrambling to find new income streams. But what if one of the answers to your financial troubles was already in your coin jar? A seemingly ordinary 5-cent coin could actually be a ticket to millions—if it’s the ultra-rare 1913 Liberty Head Nickel.
This isn’t about selling your soul or falling for a scam. This is about a coin so rare, only five are known to exist. Here’s what makes it so special—and how you might recognize one.
Table of Contents
The Coin That Wasn’t Supposed to Exist
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel: A Historical Mistake
In 1913, the U.S. Mint had plans to phase out the Liberty Head nickel, replacing it with the now-iconic Buffalo nickel featuring a Native American and a bison. Yet, somehow, five unauthorized Liberty Head nickels were minted at the Philadelphia Mint.
Designed by Charles E. Barber, these five coins were never meant to be released—and yet, they were. The mystery surrounding their production only added to their legend. For years, their existence was little more than a rumor until a clever advertisement in 1920 brought them into the public eye.
From Secret to Showcase
Millionaire coin collector Edward H. R. Green eventually acquired all five nickels. Upon his death in 1936, the coins were dispersed to various collectors, each adding to the coin’s mystique and value.
One of the coins even went missing for over 40 years, vanishing in 1962 and only resurfacing in 2003—its reappearance capturing the imagination of collectors around the world.
This Coin Could Make You Millions
Famous Owners and Historic Sales
These five nickels have passed through the hands of royalty and celebrities alike—including King Farouk of Egypt, Louis Eliasberg, and even NBA team owner Dr. Jerry Buss.
In 1996, the Eliasberg Specimen became the first U.S. coin ever sold for over a million dollars. Fast forward to 2018, and the finest known example—a coin with brilliant mirror-like surfaces—was auctioned for an astounding $4.56 million by Stack’s Bowers in Philadelphia.
Today, two of the five nickels reside in museums. That leaves only three in private hands—and potentially one more out there, waiting to be found.
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The Hidden Washington Quarter Coin Worth Up to $300 You Could Have in Your Change
How to Tell If You Have a Real 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
What to Look for on the Coin
Before you rush to your coin collection, here are the key features of the authentic 1913 Liberty Head Nickel:
Obverse (Front)
- Portrait of Liberty facing left, hair tied in a bun
- A coronet inscribed with the word “LIBERTY”
- Surrounded by thirteen stars
Reverse (Back)
- Large Roman numeral “V” (for five cents)
- A wreath of corn, cotton, and wheat encircling the V
- “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” along the top edge
- “E PLURIBUS UNUM” in smaller font
- “CENT” at the bottom
Physical Specifications
- Weight: 5.00 grams
- Diameter: 21.2 millimeters
- Composition: 75% copper, 25% nickel
- Edge: Plain
If you suspect your coin matches these descriptions, it’s critical to have it examined by a reputable coin appraiser or numismatics expert. Authentication is essential before taking any next steps.
Final Thoughts: Could You Be Holding a Fortune?
If you’ve got an old jar of coins, it’s worth taking a second look. The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is not just a collector’s dream—it’s a financial windfall that could change your life overnight.
But don’t be too quick to celebrate until you’ve confirmed your coin’s authenticity. Millions could be at stake, but only for those who hold the real deal.