A vintage silver dollar, a 19th century dime, and an early 20th century nickel that were valued at $1.15 million sold for a combined $13.35 million. The record setting purchase was made by GreatCollections Coin Auctions President Ian Russell, who bought them from Las Vegas collector Bruce Morelan.

“These are the ‘Big Three’ of U.S. numismatics,” Russell said. “The coins are the finest example of the five known 1913 Liberty Head nickels, a high grade example of one of the nine known 1894-dated dimes struck at the San Francisco Mint and one of finest of the 15 known ‘King of Coins,’ an 1804-dated U.S. silver dollar.”

Morelan had worked with Legend Numismatics dealer Laura Sperber to acquire the coins. They have been authenticated by Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS).

“The PCGS Price Guide estimated the combined value of the ‘Big Three’ at $10.85 million, but I happily paid 23% more, $13.35 million, for the once in a lifetime opportunity to get the Holy Trinity all at one time. Each of the three coins set a new record price,” Russell said.

“The 1913 Liberty Head nickels are among the most famous and coveted rarities with only five examples known. Two are permanently in museum collections including one at the Smithsonian, leaving just three for the public to own,” Russell added.

Before Russell and Morelan owned the 1804 dollar, 1894 San Francisco dime, and 1913 Liberty Head nickel, only a few collectors had owned examples of all three.

“Similar to other collectibles, the rare coin market is continuing to build on the momentum of the past year. This transaction is further proof of the depth and liquidity of multi-million-dollar numismatic rarities,” Russell said.