The Barber Dime, minted from 1892 to 1916, is one of the most collectible U.S. coins from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Designed by Charles E. Barber, the coin features Lady Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap and laurel wreath on the obverse, with a simple wheat wreath reverse.
Although millions were minted across the Philadelphia, Denver, San Francisco, and New Orleans mints, certain dates, mintmarks, and high-grade specimens can fetch thousands of dollars at auction.
Key Factors That Determine Barber Dime Value
- Date and Mintmark: Scarce mint locations like San Francisco and New Orleans often bring premiums.
- Condition (Grade): Coins in Fine, Extremely Fine, or Mint State condition sell for significantly more.
- Mintage Numbers: Low-mintage years (like 1895-O) are rare and valuable.
- Collector Demand: Barber Dimes are part of the “Barber Coinage Trio” (dimes, quarters, half dollars), making them highly sought after by set builders.
Barber Dime Value Chart
| Date / Mintmark | Mintage | Average Circulated Value | High-Grade (MS65+) Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1895-O (New Orleans) | 440,000 | $300 – $1,200 | $20,000 – $25,000+ |
| 1894-S (San Francisco) | 24 (known) | Rarest Barber Dime; virtually priceless | $1.5M – $2M (auction) |
| 1901-S (San Francisco) | 593,022 | $200 – $1,000 | $15,000 – $20,000+ |
| 1913-S (San Francisco) | 510,000 | $125 – $800 | $10,000 – $15,000+ |
| Common Dates | Millions | $3 – $20 | $200 – $800+ |
The Legendary 1894-S Barber Dime
The 1894-S Barber Dime is one of the rarest coins in U.S. history, with only 24 struck and fewer than 10 confirmed to exist today. One example sold for $1.9 million in recent years, cementing its place as a legendary rarity.
Tips for Collectors
- Inspect mintmarks carefully, located below the wreath on the reverse.
- Avoid cleaning coins, as this destroys value.
- Get coins graded by PCGS or NGC for accurate authentication.
- Track auction results to stay updated on market trends.
- Focus on key dates like 1895-O, 1901-S, and 1913-S if building investment collections.
The Barber Dime offers collectors a fascinating mix of history, artistry, and value. While most are affordable, rare dates like the 1894-S can bring millions.
Collectors should focus on mintmarks, condition, and grading to uncover true worth. Whether common or rare, every Barber Dime tells part of America’s coinage story.
FAQs
Which Barber Dime is the most valuable?
The 1894-S Barber Dime is the most valuable, selling for over $1.9 million at auction.
What is the average value of a Barber Dime?
Common dates in circulated condition are usually worth $3 to $20, while rare dates and high grades can be worth thousands.
How can I check if my Barber Dime is rare?
Look at the date and mintmark. If it’s a low-mintage issue like 1895-O or 1901-S, and in strong condition, it may be rare.