Rare 5-Cent Coin Found in Grocery Store Turns Out to Be Worth Millions: A shocking discovery in a local grocery store has captured national attention. A seemingly ordinary 5-cent coin, casually handed over as change, has been revealed to be a multi-million dollar rarity. The coin, initially mistaken for regular pocket change, turned out to be a rare collector’s dream with an estimated auction value exceeding $4.8 million. Coin experts say it’s one of the rarest and most valuable nickels ever found in circulation—and similar ones could still be out there, hiding in plain sight.
Let’s explore what makes this coin so special, how to identify one, and why collectors are scrambling to inspect their coin jars right now.
The Shocking Discovery in a Grocery Store
It all began in early June 2025 when a man in Ohio received a nickel as part of his change at a small local grocery shop. On a whim, he decided to inspect it closely, noticing something different about the mint mark and its metallic shine. After consulting an appraiser, he learned the coin was a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel—one of only five known to exist.
According to experts, this type of error coin has a fascinating backstory involving unauthorized minting and decades of mystery. The coin is now slated for auction next month and is already attracting global attention.
Why This Coin Is So Unique:
- Only 5 original 1913 Liberty Head nickels are known to exist.
- Most were produced secretly and are not officially documented by the U.S. Mint.
- The coins have previously fetched between $3 million to $5 million at auctions.
- This coin was in surprisingly good condition despite being in circulation.
What Is a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel?
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is a rare coin shrouded in mystery. Despite the official transition to the Buffalo nickel in 1913, a handful of Liberty Head designs were produced secretly at the U.S. Mint.
Complete Description and Attributes of the Coin
Below is a detailed breakdown of the features that make this coin so desirable among collectors:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Coin Name | 1913 Liberty Head Nickel |
| Metal Composition | 75% Copper, 25% Nickel |
| Mint Year | 1913 |
| Mint Mark | No Mint Mark (believed to be struck in Philadelphia) |
| Weight | 5 grams |
| Diameter | 21.2 mm |
| Edge | Plain |
| Known Copies | Only 5 |
| Auction Value | $3.1M to $5.9M depending on condition and history |
How to Identify a Valuable 5-Cent Coin in Your Pocket
Rare coins can sometimes go unnoticed due to their subtle design differences. Here’s how to identify if your nickel could be worth a fortune:
- Check the Mint Year: Look for nickels dated 1913 with the Liberty Head design.
- Inspect for Errors: Double stamping, missing dates, or unusual die errors add extreme value.
- Condition Matters: A coin in mint or near-mint condition is exponentially more valuable.
- Look for No Mint Mark: Authentic Liberty Head nickels from 1913 often lack a mint mark.
- Metal Sheen: Many rare nickels have a shinier or duller finish than typical ones.
Quick Checklist for At-Home Coin Inspection
| Inspection Step | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Year Mark | “1913” with Liberty Head |
| Edge | Smooth edge with no ridges |
| Mint Mark | Absence of mint mark below the date |
| Wear & Tear | Low or minimal signs of circulation |
| Engraving Clarity | Crisp details on “Liberty” and stars |
| Historical Anomalies | Consult online databases for authenticity |
| Compare to Known Images | Use trusted numismatic websites |
| Professional Appraisal | Seek a certified coin dealer or auctioneer |
Other Rare Nickels That Could Be Worth Big Money
While the 1913 Liberty Head is exceptionally rare, several other U.S. nickels also fetch high value in the collector’s market. If you’re checking your change, be on the lookout for these:
| Coin Name | Mint Year(s) | Estimated Value (in USD) | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | $3M – $5.9M | Only 5 known; unauthorized minting |
| 1942-D Over Horizontal D Nickel | 1942 | $15,000 – $30,000 | Mint error – overlapping mint marks |
| 1950-D Jefferson Nickel | 1950 | $10,000 – $18,000 (MS condition) | Very low mintage |
| 1937-D 3-Legged Buffalo Nickel | 1937 | $9,000 – $22,000 | Missing leg due to die error |
| 1964 SMS Nickel | 1964 | $8,750 – $15,000 | Special mint set with no official record |
| 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel | 1918 | $9,000 – $20,000 | Overdate minting error |
| 1926-S Buffalo Nickel | 1926 | $5,000 – $15,000 | Very low mintage, hard to find |
Where and How to Sell Your Rare Coins
If you believe you’ve found a valuable coin, don’t rush to your nearest pawn shop. Instead, take these steps:
- Contact a Professional Appraiser: Always get the coin evaluated by a certified numismatist.
- Get it Graded: Services like PCGS or NGC provide professional grading that can boost your coin’s value.
- Explore Auction Houses: Heritage Auctions and Stack’s Bowers are popular for rare coin bidding.
- Join Collector Forums: Many serious buyers are active in online communities like CoinTalk or Reddit’s r/coins.
- Avoid Quick Sell Offers: Never sell your coin based on one buyer’s valuation—get multiple opinions.
Expert Tips for Coin Collectors and Beginners
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just getting started, here are a few tips to enhance your coin hunting experience:
- Always check your change—especially nickels and pennies.
- Store coins in non-reactive plastic sleeves to preserve condition.
- Avoid cleaning coins, as this can reduce value dramatically.
- Follow coin auction trends to stay informed about rising values.
- Use a magnifying glass or coin loupe for better inspection.
The accidental discovery of a rare 5-cent coin in a grocery store has reignited interest in coin hunting across America. It’s a thrilling reminder that extraordinary value can lie in the most unexpected places—even in the loose change in your pocket. If you’re lucky enough to spot a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel or any other rare coin, take the right steps to verify, preserve, and possibly profit from it. As collectors know, the smallest coins often carry the biggest surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can I still find a rare 1913 Liberty Head Nickel in circulation?
A1. While extremely rare, it’s not impossible—as this latest grocery store discovery shows. But chances are very slim.
Q2. How do I know if my nickel is valuable?
A2. Look for unusual dates, errors, lack of mint marks, and overall condition. Consulting a coin appraiser is the best way to confirm value.
Q3. Is it legal to own and sell such rare coins?
A3. Yes, as long as the coin was obtained legally. Auction houses and private collectors regularly trade in such items.
Q4. How can I sell a rare coin?
A4. Approach professional appraisers, get the coin graded, and list it through reputable auction platforms or coin shows.
Q5. What’s the best way to preserve coins for value?
A5. Avoid cleaning, keep them in acid-free holders, and store in a dry, temperature-controlled environment.
Q6. Are other common coins also worth money?
A6. Yes, even modern coins can be valuable if they have minting errors or low mintage years.