Collection: Barber Dime (1892 - 1916)

The Barber Dime, designed by Charles E. Barber, represents a pivotal era in American coinage. Introduced in 1892 alongside the Barber quarter and half dollar, this ten-cent piece is both historically significant and highly collectible.

Key Specifications

• Designer: Charles E. Barber
• Issue Dates: 1892–1916
• Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
• Diameter: 17.9 mm
• Weight: 2.50 grams (38.58 grains)
• Edge: Reeded
• Business Strike Mintage: 504,317,075
• Proof Mintage: 17,353

Design Details

The obverse features Miss Liberty facing right, adorned with a laurel wreath and a Phrygian cap. A ribbon inscribed with LIBERTY sits across her forehead, while the inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA surrounds the design. The date is positioned below the bust. The reverse carries over the same large wreath design from earlier dimes, enclosing the denomination ONE DIME.

Notably, the dime differs from the Barber quarter and half dollar in that it lacks the stars around the obverse periphery, making it distinct within the series.

Rarity and Collectibility

Key Dates and Rarities

• 1894-S Dime: With only 24 coins minted, this is one of the rarest coins in U.S. history. Approximately 12 examples survive, often with prooflike surfaces.
• 1893/2 Overdate: A fascinating variety highly sought by collectors.
• 1894-O, 1895, 1895-O: Scarce issues, particularly in higher grades.
• 1901-S: Known for its rarity in Uncirculated condition.

Proof Issues

• Produced annually from 1892 to 1915 (excluding 1916), Barber dimes in Proof condition are especially prized, with 1914 and 1915 being the scarcest due to their low mintages.

Condition and Scarcity

• Worn Grades: Barber dimes are commonly found in grades from About Good to Very Fine.
• Extremely Fine and Above: Coins in Extremely Fine condition or better are significantly rarer due to the design's tendency to lose detail, particularly the word LIBERTY on Liberty's headband.
• Superb Uncirculated Coins: These are exceptionally difficult to locate, with most collectors finding it challenging to assemble a complete high-grade set.

Historical Highlights

Introduction and Public Reception

The Barber design, introduced in 1892, was met with mixed reviews from the public and numismatists. Although the design is now appreciated for its classic simplicity, it was initially criticized for lacking artistry, leading to calls for new designs in the mid-1890s.

Minting Practices

Barber dimes were consistently struck at the Philadelphia, New Orleans, and San Francisco mints throughout the series, with a few gaps, such as the absence of 1904-O dimes.

1894-S Story

The 1894-S dime, shrouded in mystery, is one of the most famous rarities in U.S. numismatics. Theories suggest they were struck either as die tests or to balance mint accounting records. Two coins were retained by the Mint director’s daughter, Hallie Daggett, adding intrigue to their legacy.

Collecting Strategies

Type Collectors

A single Barber dime can represent this series in a type set, with common dates like 1909 being more affordable in circulated grades.

Complete Sets

Building a full set of Barber dimes, especially in high grades, is a challenging but rewarding pursuit. Scarce branch mint issues and the elusive 1894-S are significant hurdles.

Focus on Key Dates and Proofs

Collectors often target key dates like the 1894-O and rare Proof issues, including the low-mintage 1914 and 1915 dimes, to enhance their collections.

Why Collect Barber Dimes?

Barber dimes offer a fascinating glimpse into late 19th and early 20th-century American coinage. With their classic design, historical significance, and a mix of accessible and rare dates, they appeal to both novice and advanced collectors.

Explore Barber Dimes at ParadimeCoins.com

Discover our extensive selection of Barber Dimes, including high-grade examples, key dates, and rare Proof issues. Start building or expanding your collection today at ParadimeCoins.com!