Could a nickel in an old box be worth millions? A retired teacher in Michigan hit the jackpot when he found a rare 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, valued at $2.2 million, inside a $25 tackle box at a garage sale. With only five known, this coin is a numismatic legend, sparking excitement across the U.S.
Uncover the story of this incredible find, learn how to spot valuable coins, and join the coin-hunting craze. Perfect for Americans curious about hidden treasures or eager to try coin collecting, this tale will inspire you to check your old nickels!
The Michigan Garage Sale Miracle
James Morgan, a retired teacher from Flint, Michigan, was browsing a neighborhood garage sale when he spotted a rusty tackle box priced at $25. Thinking it’d be perfect for storing tools, he bought it without a second thought. That evening, while sorting its contents, he found a worn nickel dated 1913 with Lady Liberty—a design not used after 1912. “It looked odd,” Morgan said. After online research and expert evaluations, he learned it was a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, one of only five known, worth an estimated $2.2 million.
Why Is the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel So Valuable?
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is one of America’s rarest coins, with only five verified examples. Never officially authorized by the U.S. Mint, experts believe a rogue employee secretly struck them, adding mystery and allure. Past sales have reached over $4.5 million, and this newly discovered coin’s excellent condition could push its value higher at auction.
Key Factors Driving Value
- Extreme Rarity: Only five known specimens.
- Historical Mystery: Unauthorized minting adds intrigue.
- Condition: Pristine coins fetch top prices.
- Collector Demand: A dream find for numismatists.
How Did a $2.2 Million Coin End Up in a Tackle Box?
The coin’s journey to a Michigan garage sale is a puzzle. Theories include:
- An unaware heir inherited it and sold it unknowingly.
- A collector misplaced it decades ago.
- It was tucked away in a family’s forgotten collection.
The anonymous seller hasn’t commented, leaving the coin’s path a mystery. “It’s like finding buried treasure,” said New York collector Laura Mitchell, reflecting the numismatic community’s excitement.
How to Spot a Valuable Coin
Think you’ve found a rare nickel? Check these signs:
- Unusual Date: Look for 1913 on a Liberty Head design.
- Design Details: Lady Liberty, not a buffalo or Jefferson.
- Weight and Feel: Nickels weigh ~5 grams; check for a solid feel.
- Condition: Unworn, shiny coins are worth more.
- Authentication: Only PCGS or NGC can verify authenticity.
If a coin seems special, don’t clean it—cleaning lowers value. Store it in a protective holder and seek expert evaluation.
1913 Liberty Head Nickel Details Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Name | 1913 Liberty Head Nickel |
| Minted | 1913, likely Philadelphia Mint |
| Material | 75% copper, 25% nickel |
| Estimated Quantity | Only 5 known |
| Value | Up to $2.2M+ |
Where to Hunt for Rare Coins
This incredible find shows treasures can hide anywhere. Check these spots:
- Garage Sales: Browse old boxes or jars.
- Pocket Change: Inspect coins from transactions.
- Old Collections: Look through inherited albums or tins.
- Coin Rolls: Buy rolls from banks to search.
Past discoveries, like a 1943 copper penny in change, prove rare coins can still surface, so keep your eyes open!
What to Do If You Find a Rare Coin
Think you’ve found a valuable nickel? Follow these steps:
- Don’t Clean: Cleaning damages value.
- Store Safely: Use a coin flip or capsule.
- Handle Carefully: Wear gloves to avoid oils.
- Get It Graded: Submit to PCGS or NGC for authentication.
- Sell Smart: Use auction houses like Heritage or Stack’s Bowers.
Morgan’s coin is with PCGS for grading, with major auctions already eyeing it for a blockbuster sale.
Why This Coin Thrills Collectors
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is a numismatic icon due to its rarity, secret minting, and million-dollar auction history. The Michigan find has sparked a coin-hunting frenzy, with collectors flooding forums and checking old boxes. “It’s the ultimate dream find,” said coin historian Robert Chase. As digital payments grow, this story reminds us that coins carry history and hidden riches.
Conclusion: Your Old Nickel Could Be a Million-Dollar Treasure!
A $2.2 million 1913 Liberty Head Nickel found in a Michigan tackle box proves that rare coins can hide in unexpected places. With only five known, checking your old nickels for a 1913 Liberty Head could lead to a fortune. Grab a magnifying glass, search your jars, and join the U.S. coin-hunting excitement. Your next garage sale find might change your life!
FAQs
What Makes the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel So Rare?
Only five are known, likely struck secretly without Mint approval, making them numismatic legends.
How Can I Tell If I Have a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel?
Look for a 1913 date with Lady Liberty, not a buffalo or Jefferson design. Verify with PCGS or NGC.
Can Rare Coins Still Be Found at Garage Sales?
Yes, finds like this nickel show treasures can hide in old boxes or collections.
Should I Clean a Rare Coin?
No, cleaning damages the surface and lowers value significantly.
Where Can I Sell a Rare Coin?
Get it graded by PCGS or NGC, then sell through trusted auction houses like Heritage or Stack’s Bowers.