The 1912-S Liberty Head Nickel is a special coin in U.S. numismatic history. This rare coin, minted in San Francisco, marks the final year of the Liberty Head Nickel series, which ran from 1883 to 1912.
What makes it even more unique is the “S” mint mark, indicating that it was produced at the San Francisco Mint. With a limited mintage and significant historical importance, this coin is highly sought after by collectors.
Let’s explore the history, features, and value of the 1912-S Liberty Head Nickel, and why it continues to be a prized collectible today.
Historical Background of the 1912-S Liberty Head Nickel
The Liberty Head Nickel, also called the “V” Nickel due to the Roman numeral “V” on its reverse side, was minted for nearly 30 years. The 1912-S version stands out as it was the first and only year a Liberty Head Nickel was minted in San Francisco.
It also marked the end of the series, which was replaced by the Buffalo Nickel in 1913. This makes the 1912-S Nickel a key piece of U.S. coinage history.
Key Features of the 1912-S Liberty Head Nickel
Understanding the features of the 1912-S Liberty Head Nickel is essential for collectors. Here are some of its key aspects:
- Obverse Design: Lady Liberty’s profile is shown, wearing a coronet with “LIBERTY” inscribed on it. Thirteen stars encircle her, representing the original U.S. colonies, with the year “1912” at the bottom.
- Reverse Design: The reverse side showcases a large Roman numeral “V” for five cents. Above the “V” is the phrase “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” encircles the top.
- Mint Mark: The “S” mint mark appears on the reverse, near the rim, indicating it was produced at the San Francisco Mint.
- Composition: The coin is made of 75% copper and 25% nickel, with a weight of 5 grams and a diameter of 21.2 mm.
Mintage and Rarity
The rarity of the 1912-S Liberty Head Nickel adds to its value. Only 238,000 coins were minted, making it the lowest mintage of the Liberty Head Nickel series. Today, fewer than 10,000 of these coins are believed to still exist, and even fewer are in high-grade condition.
Grading the 1912-S Liberty Head Nickel
The condition, or grade, of a 1912-S Liberty Head Nickel greatly impacts its value. Here’s a basic breakdown of common grades:
- Good (G-4): The coin is well-worn, with flattened details, but the date and mint mark are still visible.
- Very Fine (VF-20): Moderate wear with clearer details, especially in Liberty’s hair and the stars.
- Extremely Fine (EF-40): Slight wear with sharp details and a distinct mint mark.
- Uncirculated (MS-60 to MS-65): No wear, with original mint luster. Higher grades are exceptionally brilliant.
Market Value of the 1912-S Liberty Head Nickel
The value of a 1912-S Liberty Head Nickel varies based on its grade. Below is a rough value guide:
- Good (G-4): $125 – $200
- Very Fine (VF-20): $350 – $600
- Extremely Fine (EF-40): $1,000 – $1,500
- Uncirculated (MS-60): $3,000 – $5,000
- Uncirculated (MS-65): $10,000 – $15,000
Collecting the 1912-S Liberty Head Nickel: Tips
- Authenticity: Because this coin is rare, counterfeits exist. Always buy from trusted dealers and consider getting it certified by professional grading services like PCGS or NGC.
- Condition: High-grade coins are much more valuable. If possible, aim for coins in at least Very Fine condition.
- Storage: Proper storage is crucial to preserve the coin’s value. Keep it in a protective holder and store it in a climate-controlled environment.
The 1912-S Liberty Head Nickel is a key piece of American coinage history, not only for its rarity but also for its historical significance. As the last Liberty Head Nickel and the only one minted in San Francisco,
it holds a special place for collectors. Whether you are just starting out or are an experienced collector, owning this coin means holding onto a unique piece of U.S. history.
Why is the 1912-S Liberty Head Nickel so valuable?
The 1912-S is rare, with a mintage of only 238,000 coins and fewer than 10,000 believed to still exist, making it highly sought after.
What does the “S” mint mark signify?
The “S” mint mark indicates that the coin was produced at the San Francisco Mint.
How much is a 1912-S Liberty Head Nickel worth?
Depending on its condition, it can be worth anywhere from $125 to $15,000.
What should I look for when buying a 1912-S Liberty Head Nickel?
Always check for authenticity, condition, and ensure the coin is graded by a reputable service.
What is the best way to store this coin?
Store it in a climate-controlled environment in a protective holder to prevent damage.
