Rare $3.5 Million 1913 Liberty Head Nickel Found In Cookie Tin After 40 Years
An old cookie tin tucked away in a dusty closet turned out to hold one of the rarest coins in American history—a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, now valued at $3.5 million.
For over four decades, the coin sat unnoticed among family keepsakes, believed to be just another piece of old change. But its true identity would shock the numismatic world.
The Liberty Head Nickel That Shouldn’t Exist
The Liberty Head Nickel design was officially discontinued in 1912, replaced by the Buffalo Nickel in 1913. However, five 1913 Liberty Head Nickels were mysteriously minted, likely unofficially at the Philadelphia Mint.
These coins were never released into circulation and only surfaced years later, making them legendary rarities.
Only five authentic specimens are known to exist, and each has a fascinating backstory. The cookie tin coin became the sixth confirmed specimen—and its condition and provenance only fueled collector frenzy.
How the Coin Was Discovered
The coin’s journey began in the 1970s when a man received a box of inherited belongings. He stored the items, including the nickel, in a metal cookie tin and rarely gave them any thought.
But in 2023, a casual conversation about rare coins with a neighbor sparked curiosity.
The man took the nickel to a coin expert, where it was authenticated as one of the original five 1913 Liberty Head Nickels. Despite being stored away for decades, the coin remained in exceptional condition, with intricate features still visible.
Coin Specifications and Auction Results
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Coin Name | 1913 Liberty Head Nickel |
| Mint | Likely Philadelphia |
| Composition | 75% Copper, 25% Nickel |
| Known Specimens | 5 (now confirmed 6th) |
| Auction Price | $3.5 million |
| Condition | Extra Fine to Almost Uncirculated |
| Storage History | In a cookie tin for 40 years |
The coin went to auction in early 2025, and the bidding quickly escalated. When the gavel finally dropped, the winning bid was $3.5 million, securing its place in coin-collecting history.
Why Is the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel So Valuable?
There are several reasons why this coin is so sought after:
- Extremely limited mintage (only five officially recognized)
- Mysterious origin, as they were not legally produced
- Iconic status among collectors and museums
- Its appearance on television shows and in major exhibitions over the years
The Coin’s Impact on the Owner
For the unsuspecting man who discovered the coin in a tin, the sale meant life-changing wealth. From modest beginnings, he now had millions—thanks to a forgotten heirloom and a little curiosity.
Hidden Treasures Could Still Be Out There
Stories like this ignite interest among collectors and the general public alike. Experts advise against throwing away old coins without checking their value. Many rare coins from the early 20th century or earlier still turn up in unexpected places—cookie jars, piggy banks, drawers, and attics.
he discovery of a $3.5 million Liberty Head Nickel in a cookie tin is more than a lucky find—it’s a reminder that hidden history may be sitting quietly in our homes.
Whether you’re a serious numismatist or a casual collector, stories like this show that incredible treasures may be just a tin away.
So next time you sort through old belongings, take a closer look. You might just uncover a piece of American history worth millions.
FAQs
Why is the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel so valuable?
Only five to six are known to exist, likely minted without authorization. Their rarity and backstory make them highly collectible.
How can I know if I have a rare coin?
Check for unusual dates, mint errors, and excellent condition. Consulting a certified appraiser or coin dealer is recommended.
Where are the other 1913 Liberty Head Nickels?
Most are in private collections or museums, including the Smithsonian. Their ownership is well documented by experts.