In a discovery that has stunned both coin collectors and everyday Americans, a rare coin found tucked inside an old filing cabinet drawer has recently been sold for an astonishing $90,000 at auction.
What began as a routine cleanout of forgotten office furniture turned into a life-changing moment for its unsuspecting finder — a reminder that history can sometimes hide in plain sight.
A Forgotten Drawer, a Priceless Find
The story unfolded in a small-town law office in Ohio that was closing down after decades of operation. While sorting through old documents and furniture, an assistant came across a rusted metal filing cabinet that hadn’t been opened in years. Among the faded papers and paperclips, a small cloth pouch was discovered. Inside was what appeared to be a silver coin — but not just any coin.
Upon closer inspection, it turned out to be a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel, one of the rarest and most coveted coins in American history. Only five specimens of this coin are known to exist, and each one holds a legendary status among numismatists.
How Rare Is the 1913 Liberty Nickel?
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel is the stuff of coin-collecting folklore. Minted under mysterious circumstances and never officially released for circulation, the coin’s existence wasn’t even publicly acknowledged until years later. Of the five confirmed to exist, two are held by private collectors, two are in museums, and one — now the one found in the filing cabinet — has entered the auction scene for the first time in decades.
These coins are so rare that even those familiar with U.S. coinage might never see one in their lifetime. Their value stems not only from their scarcity but also from the intrigue surrounding their unauthorized creation at the Philadelphia Mint.
Auction Sparks Frenzy
Once authenticated by a third-party grading service, the coin was sent to a major auction house. The news spread like wildfire across numismatic circles, with collectors from around the world showing interest. Bidding was intense, and by the time the final gavel fell, the coin had fetched a jaw-dropping $90,000 — far beyond the initial appraisal.
Experts say the condition of the coin — graded as VF (Very Fine) — played a major role in its final price. Despite its age and the way it was stored, it retained much of its detail and original luster.
The Human Side of the Find
The individual who discovered the coin, choosing to remain anonymous, said they were completely unaware of its value. “At first, I thought it was just a replica or something someone was keeping for sentimental reasons,” they shared. “I had no idea it would change everything.”
Now, with the sale completed, the unexpected windfall is being used to pay off student loans and help support a family member’s medical expenses. It’s a feel-good story that proves treasures don’t always come from treasure hunts — sometimes they’re hidden in the mundane.
A Reminder to Check Those Drawers
This story is the latest in a string of remarkable coin finds across the United States. From coins discovered in old jars to rare currency hidden behind picture frames, these surprises continue to capture the imagination of the public.
Collectors are now urging people to pay closer attention when clearing out old furniture, especially if it belonged to someone from an earlier generation. Filing cabinets, attic trunks, and even old typewriters have been known to harbor collectible coins forgotten for decades.
Also, read: She Found This Penny in Her Car’s Ashtray — It’s Now Worth Over $25,000
Final Thoughts
The tale of the $90,000 nickel is a powerful reminder that history often lies just inches away from our everyday lives. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or someone cleaning out a dusty office, you never know what secrets a drawer might hold.
