A tiny nickel from 1913, known as the Hawaii Five-O Liberty Head Nickel, just sold for over $4 million, leaving coin collectors in awe. This super rare coin, one of only five ever made, was sold by Stack’s Bowers Galleries to a private buyer. Its fame comes not just from its scarcity but also from its star turn in a 1973 Hawaii Five-O episode, making it a legend among coin fans and TV viewers alike. Could a coin this valuable still be hiding in someone’s collection?
A Coin That Shouldn’t Exist
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is a mystery. The U.S. Mint ended the Liberty Head design in 1912, switching to the Buffalo Nickel in 1913. Yet, five nickels with the 1913 date slipped out, possibly struck in secret by a Mint worker named Samuel Brown. No one knows for sure why they were made, but theories range from a favor for a rich collector to a Mint employee’s whim. This Hawaii Five-O specimen, graded Proof-64+ by NGC and CAC-approved, is the second finest of the five, with two others locked away in museums.
Why It’s Worth a Fortune
This nickel’s value comes from its rarity and wild history. Only three of the five known coins are in private hands, making them a hot target for collectors. Its price has skyrocketed over time—selling for $100,000 in 1972, $3.29 million in 2014, and now over $4 million in 2021. Famous owners like King Farouk of Egypt and LA Lakers owner Jerry Buss add to its legend. Its TV fame from Hawaii Five-O’s “The $100,000 Nickel” episode made it a household name, boosting its appeal.
| Feature | 1913 Liberty Nickel | Common Nickel |
|---|---|---|
| Number Known | 5 | Millions |
| Material | Nickel-Copper | Nickel-Copper |
| Value | $3M–$4M+ | 5 cents |
| Condition (Top Grade) | Proof-64+ or higher | Varies |
A Star on Screen and at Auction
The Hawaii Five-O nickel’s story is a wild ride. It first belonged to Colonel E.H.R. Green, who owned all five 1913 nickels. Later, it passed through big names like Fred Olsen and Eric Newman. Its 1973 TV appearance in Hawaii Five-O made it a pop culture icon, sparking interest far beyond coin collectors. Stack’s Bowers Galleries, which handled its $4 million sale in 2021, also sold it in 1993 and saw another 1913 nickel hit $4.56 million in 2018. Each sale adds to its epic tale.
How to Spot a Rare Nickel
Dreaming of finding one? Here’s what to look for:
- Date: Must say 1913 with the Liberty Head design, not Buffalo.
- Condition: Sharp details, no scratches, and a shiny look.
- Authenticity: Only PCGS or NGC can confirm it’s real.
With only five in existence, finding one in change is a long shot. Still, old family collections or estate sales might hold surprises. If you think you’ve got one, get it graded by a pro.
Why the Coin World Is Buzzing
This $4 million sale has collectors buzzing. The 1913 Liberty Nickel’s mix of mystery, TV fame, and crazy value makes it a dream find. As part of the “holy trinity” of U.S. rarities, alongside the 1804 silver dollar and 1894-S dime, it’s a numismatic superstar. With prices climbing—some say it could hit $10 million someday coin hunting is hotter than ever. Whether you’re a serious collector or just curious, this nickel shows that small change can mean big money.