1883 Liberty Head Nickel : What began as a routine attic cleanup turned into an extraordinary find for a Pennsylvania family. While sorting through their late grandmother’s belongings, they stumbled upon an old metal sewing kit tucked away on a dusty closet shelf. Inside, hidden among buttons, needles, and spools of thread, was a yellowed envelope containing a seemingly ordinary coin—an 1883 Liberty Head Nickel. However, this was no ordinary nickel. It was a rare “No CENTS” variety, a coin with a fascinating backstory, and it would later sell at auction for an astonishing $83,000.
A Hidden Treasure in Plain Sight
The family initially overlooked the coin, assuming it was just another old nickel. But upon closer inspection, they noticed something unusual—the absence of the word “CENTS” on the reverse side. Realizing it might be valuable, they consulted experts, who confirmed its authenticity and remarkable condition. Graded Mint State 66 (MS66), the coin had been preserved for over a century with minimal wear, making it a prized find for collectors.
The Notorious “Racketeer Nickel” and Its Historical Significance
The 1883 Liberty Head Nickel holds a unique place in numismatic history. When first released, the design featured only a large Roman numeral “V” (denoting five cents) without the word “CENTS” below it. This oversight allowed fraudsters to gold-plate the nickels and pass them off as $5 gold coins. The scam became so widespread that the U.S. Mint quickly modified the design mid-year, adding “CENTS” to prevent further deception.
Because of this short-lived design, the “No CENTS” variety became a collector’s item. While millions were originally minted, very few remain in pristine condition today. The coin’s connection to 19th-century fraud even earned it the nickname “Racketeer Nickel,” adding to its intrigue and desirability among collectors.
A Bidding War Leads to an $83,000 Sale
When the family’s nickel went to auction in April 2025, it sparked fierce competition among collectors. Opening bids started at $15,000, but the coin’s exceptional condition and historical significance drove the price up rapidly. By the time the auction closed, it had sold for an impressive $83,000—nearly three times its initial estimate.
Could There Be Hidden Treasures in Your Home?
This incredible discovery serves as a reminder that valuable items may be hiding in the most unexpected places—old sewing kits, jars of loose change, or forgotten drawers. Other rare coins, such as the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel or certain Lincoln Wheat Pennies, have also been found in everyday settings, turning ordinary moments into life-changing windfalls.
So next time you’re cleaning out an attic or sifting through old belongings, take a closer look. You never know what hidden treasures might be waiting to be uncovered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was the 1883 Liberty Head Nickel found?
The coin was discovered inside a vintage sewing kit during an attic cleanup in Pennsylvania.
Why is the “No CENTS” version so valuable?
Its design flaw led to widespread fraud, making it historically significant, and high-grade examples are extremely rare.
What does Mint State 66 (MS66) mean?
This grading indicates the coin is in near-perfect condition with sharp details and minimal wear.
Why is it called the “Racketeer Nickel”?
Con artists gold-plated these nickels to mimic $5 gold coins, scamming unsuspecting victims in the 1880s.
Can rare coins still be found today?
Yes—valuable coins often turn up in old collections, inherited items, or even everyday pocket change. Always keep an eye out!
