PCGS, Canva de master1305, GregMontani de pixabay The curious 5-cent coin that reaches over $4.5 million in the United States
This fascinating coin stands out in the world of collecting due to its rarity and high market value
In the world of numismatics, some coins are more than just collectibles. Their history, rarity, and minting errors make them unique pieces. In August 2018, a coin reached an impressive price at an auction and stood out as one of the most valuable.
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is the name of the coin that broke records, this 5-cent nickel was minted by the United States Mint in a year when these designs were officially discontinued. With only five known specimens, this coin is incredibly rare, which elevates its value. At an auction organized by Stack's Bowers Galleries, the final price reached $4,560,000.
The mystery behind the coin
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel was not part of an official series, as Buffalo Nickels were introduced in 1913. There are theories suggesting that the coin was minted as part of an error or through an unauthorized process. Some believe it was a piece created for a collector, while others think it was an error by the Mint.
There are only five known specimens of this coin, three of which are in private hands and two are kept in institutions, such as the Smithsonian. The existence of so few specimens makes this coin extremely valuable and desired by collectors. The condition of the coin auctioned in 2018 is another factor contributing to its high price.
A record price at the auction
At the Stack's Bowers Galleries auction, the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel sold for $4,560,000, this price makes it one of the most expensive coins in history. The sale exceeded all expectations and marked a milestone in the numismatic market. The buyer was Laura Sperber, partner of Legend Numismatics, who now owns this unique piece.
The quality of the coin is one of the reasons it reached such a high price. The piece has a PCGS PR66 rating, which means it is in exceptional condition for a coin over 100 years old. The bright and preserved surface is one of the main attractions of the coin, moreover, the fact that it is an error piece makes it a gem.
In the coin market, the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel has left an indelible mark. Its value lies not only in its history but also in its rarity and the mystery surrounding it. Today, this coin is a symbol of the fascination with the rare and the unknown in the world of numismatics.
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