A Nickel with a Wild Story
Imagine trading a nickel for a pack of gum and later finding out it’s worth millions. That’s exactly what happened with a rare 1913 Buffalo Nickel, a coin that’s now one of the most valuable in U.S. history. A kid in the 1920s swapped this coin for candy, unaware it would become a collector’s treasure. Recently, one of these nickels sold at auction for a jaw-dropping $4.2 million, and experts say more could be out there.
What Makes This Nickel So Special?
The 1913 Liberty Head Buffalo Nickel is rare because it was never meant to be made. The U.S. Mint switched to a new design that year, but a few Liberty Head nickels were struck by mistake. Only five are known to exist, making them a holy grail for collectors. These coins feature a Native American profile on one side and a buffalo on the other, with crisp details that drive up their value, especially in good condition.
| Feature | Normal Buffalo Nickel | 1913 Liberty Head |
|---|---|---|
| Year | 1913-1938 | 1913 only |
| Design | Standard buffalo | Liberty Head error |
| Known Examples | Millions | Only 5 |
How This Coin Ended Up in a Candy Deal
Back in the 1920s, a kid in Philadelphia used one of these nickels to buy gum, not knowing its value. The coin passed through many hands before a collector spotted it decades later. Its rarity wasn’t widely known until the 1960s, when coin experts realized only a handful of these 1913 nickels existed. The one traded for gum eventually landed at a 2023 auction, where it sold for $4.2 million to a private buyer.
Could You Have One in Your Collection?
These rare nickels could still be hiding in old coin collections, family heirlooms, or even loose change from decades ago. Check dusty jars, attic boxes, or inherited coin albums. Look for the 1913 date and the Liberty Head design—a woman’s profile instead of the usual Native American. If you find one, don’t clean it; even small scratches can lower its value. Take it to a reputable coin dealer for a professional check.
Tips to Spot a Valuable Nickel
Not sure if your nickel is a winner? Here’s how to check:
- Look for the 1913 date and Liberty Head design, not the buffalo version.
- Check the condition—clear, sharp details are worth more.
- Compare it to a regular Buffalo Nickel to spot differences.
- Be cautious of fakes; some people try to alter coins to mimic rares.
Always get an expert to verify your find before getting your hopes up.
Don’t Trade Your Nickels for Gum Yet
This story proves that everyday coins can hide incredible value. The 1913 Buffalo Nickel traded for gum turned into a multi-million-dollar treasure, and more could be waiting to be found. Next time you’re sorting through old coins or cleaning out a relative’s stash, take a closer look. That nickel you’re about to toss might just be your ticket to a life-changing payday.