What is a Barber Half Dollar?
Coin minted by the US mint from 1892 to 1915 with high numismatic value. Named for the designer of the coin, Charles E. Barber who was the first pioneer relief coins.
The Barber Half Dollar, also known as the Liberty Head Half Dollar, was manufactured by the U.S. Mint between 1892 and 1915. The Barber Half Dollar was designed by Charles Edward Barber. Charles Barber was the 6th chief engraver of the U.S. Mint between the dates of 1879 and 1917. During his tenure, he was responsible for the creation of almost all the coins produced by the U.S. mint. In addition to creating designs for coins, he also designed medals. The composition of the Barber coin is approximately 10% copper and 90% silver. The design of the coin includes an image of Lady Liberty and an Eagle, on opposite sides of the coin.
Barber half dollars are a solid investment because the coin holds a fairly stable value and demand has remained steady. Certain Barber Half Dollars are considered more valuable than others and regardless of their condition. As a result collectors and investors have to be particularly vigilant when purchasing these coins, as they are often counterfeited and altered. It would be prudent for any collector to have these coins go through an authentication process to ensure that they are receiving what was originally advertised.
The Barber Half Dollars have been minted in various cities across the United States operating under the jurisdiction of U.S. Mint. The following Barber Half Dollars are considered particularly valuable:
- 1914
- 1892-San Francisco
- 1893-San Francisco
- 1897-New Orleans
- 1897-San Francisco
- 1904-San Francisco
- 1892-New Orleans
For many collectors, the value in their coins lies not in the present value of the Barber Half Dollar, but the estimated future value of the coin. With the diminishing quantity of Barber Half Dollars on the market, investors believe the value the Barber Half Dollar will increase.
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