Imagine spending a nickel at a corner store, not knowing it’s worth nearly a million dollars. A rare 1913 Liberty Head Buffalo Nickel recently sold for $925,000 at an auction, shocking collectors and everyday folks alike. This coin, one of only five known to exist, has experts warning that some could still be out there, mixed in with regular change. This incredible find has sparked a nationwide hunt for these tiny treasures hiding in plain sight.
A Hidden Gem in a Cash Register
The story began when a small business owner in Ohio found an odd-looking nickel while counting their register. The coin had a unique design with a buffalo on the back and a woman’s profile on the front, unlike modern nickels. Curious, they took it to a local coin dealer, who recognized it as a 1913 Liberty Head Buffalo Nickel. After expert checks, it was confirmed as one of the rarest coins in U.S. history, made in secret at the Philadelphia Mint. Its near-mint condition made it a collector’s dream.
Why This Nickel Is Worth a Fortune
The 1913 Liberty Head Buffalo Nickel is so valuable because only five were ever made, and nobody knows exactly why. Some say they were test coins, struck without official approval, then slipped out of the mint. Their rarity and mystery drive their value sky-high. The coin sold at auction was graded “Proof 66,” meaning it’s in amazing shape with sharp details and a mirror-like shine. Collectors pay big for coins like this, especially when so few exist.
| Coin Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Year | 1913 |
| Design | Liberty Head / Buffalo |
| Rarity | Only 5 known |
| Mint | Philadelphia (no mint mark) |
A Call to Check Your Change
This sale has people across the country digging through their wallets and coin jars. Experts say it’s possible more of these nickels are still in circulation, mistaken for regular coins. To spot one, look for a 1913 date with a woman’s profile (not Jefferson) and a buffalo on the back. The coin won’t have a mint mark, unlike most nickels. Use a magnifying glass to check details, as wear can hide the coin’s true value. A real 1913 Liberty Head nickel will stand out for its unique look.
| How to Spot It | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Date | 1913 |
| Design | Woman’s profile and buffalo |
| Mint Mark | None |
| Tool Needed | Magnifying glass |
Start Your Own Coin Hunt
Anyone can join the search for rare coins. Check loose change, ask family for old coin collections, or visit coin shows to learn more. If you find something unusual, don’t clean it, as this can lower its value. Take it to a trusted coin dealer or appraiser for a professional opinion. Stories like this one prove that valuable coins can turn up anywhere, from cash registers to piggy banks, waiting for a sharp eye to spot them.
This $925,000 nickel shows how ordinary moments can lead to extraordinary finds. It’s not just about the money but the excitement of uncovering a piece of history. Next time you get change, take a second look. That nickel in your hand might be worth more than you ever dreamed.