An Ordinary Errand Turns Life-Changing
Last fall, Sarah Mitchell, a 38-year-old nurse from Boise, Idaho, stopped at a gas station to buy a coffee. She paid with a handful of change from her purse, but the cashier noticed something odd about one of the nickels. It looked older, with a strange shine. Sarah, curious but busy, tossed it back in her purse. Weeks later, she remembered that nickel and decided to take a closer look. That small decision led to a discovery that would leave her speechless.
A Rare Coin Revealed
Sarah showed the nickel to a friend who collects coins, and he urged her to visit a local coin dealer. The dealer immediately recognized it as a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, one of the rarest coins in the world. Only five are known to exist, making it a holy grail for collectors. The coin’s pristine condition and unique history sent it to an auction house for appraisal. Experts confirmed its authenticity, valuing it at an astonishing $900,000. Sarah couldn’t believe her luck—she’d been carrying a fortune in her purse.
Why This Nickel Is a Big Deal
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is a legend in coin collecting. It was never meant to be made, as the U.S. Mint had switched to the Buffalo Nickel design that year. However, a few rogue coins were struck, possibly by a mint worker, and slipped into circulation. Here’s what makes this nickel so special:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 1913 |
| Mint | Philadelphia (no mint mark) |
| Material | 75% copper, 25% nickel |
| Estimated Value | $900,000 (based on condition and rarity) |
| Known Examples | Only 5 in existence |
From Purse to Auction House
Sarah was in shock. “I thought it was just a weird old nickel,” she said with a laugh. After the appraisal, she decided to sell the coin to secure her family’s future. In March 2025, the nickel sold at a New York auction for $920,000 to a private collector. Sarah, a single mom with three kids, plans to use the money to pay for her children’s college, buy a new home, and donate to a local children’s hospital. “It feels like a dream,” she said, still amazed by her find.
The Growing Buzz Around Coin Hunting
Sarah’s story has ignited excitement about coin collecting across the country. Experts say rare coins like the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel are often hiding in everyday places—coin jars, old wallets, or even vending machine change. “You don’t need to be an expert to find something valuable,” said Laura Evans, a numismatist with the American Coin Association. She suggests checking coins for unusual dates, mint marks, or designs. While most nickels won’t be worth $900,000, even less rare coins can bring in hundreds or thousands.
A Reminder to Stay Curious
Sarah’s incredible find shows that treasures can turn up anywhere, even in your pocket. “I almost spent that nickel on a soda,” she said, shaking her head. Now, she’s encouraging others to pay attention to their loose change. Her story has inspired her kids to start their own coin collections, hoping to find their own hidden gem. “You never know what’s out there,” Sarah said. “Sometimes, the smallest things can change your life.” Her $900,000 nickel is proof that a little curiosity can go a very long way.
