A Barber coin refers to a series of United States dimes, quarters, and half dollars designed by Charles E. Barber, who served as Chief Engraver of the US Mint from 1879 to 1917 . These coins were minted between 1892 and 1916.
- Designer: Charles E. Barber.
- Denominations: Dime, quarter, and half dollar.
- Composition: 90% silver and 10% copper.
- Obverse design: Features a depiction of Lady Liberty wearing a crown of laurel leaves and a Phrygian cap, [according to GOVMINT].
- Reverse design:
– Quarters and half dollars: Feature a heraldic eagle inspired by the Great Seal of the United States.
– Dimes: Feature a wreath encircling the words “ONE DIME”, [according to Coin Values Discovery] . This difference was due to a legal requirement that only denominations higher than a dime could display an eagle.
- Minting period: 1892-1916.
- Historical Significance: Represent a transition from traditional to modern US coin designs and are the last series to have consistent designs across different denominations.
Barber coins are sought after by collectors, with their value depending on factors such as their condition, rarity, and the current spot price of silver . Some particularly rare examples, like the 1894-S Barber dime , can be worth hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars.
In summary, Barber coins are a significant series in US numismatic history, known for their distinct design, silver content, and varying degrees of rarity.
Are Barber coins worth anything?
Thanks for asking. Barber coins are not just monetary assets but also historical artifacts. Their value can range from a few dollars to thousands, depending on their condition and rarity. Some have even sold for over a million dollars, which is more than a few gold bars.
How do you identify a Barber coin?
From my experience, Barber, have a distinctive and timeless appearance. On the obverse, you’ll typically find a depiction of Liberty wearing a crown of laurel leaves and a Phrygian cap. The reverse designs vary depending on the denomination, with intricate details characteristic of late 19th—and early 20th-century coinage.
Why are they called Barber coins?
I can help with that. The coins were named for their designer: US Mint Chief Engraver Charles E. Barber. Though not the most widely adored of US coin series, Barber coins were still significant in a few ways: The last series to have consistent designs across different denominations.
What does “barber” mean in coins?
From my experience, The Barber or Liberty Head Dime is part of a coinage series that also includes quarters and half-dollars. The United States Mint created these coins in conjunction with their then-chief engraver, Charles Barber. This is how the coin series earned its “Barber” coin nickname.