Barber Silver Dime - Philadelphia Mint

The Barber Dime was struck by the U.S. Mint from 1892-1916, so every coin is now over 100 years old.

The coin is known as the Barber Dime because it was created by Charles E. Barber, who was Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint and was one of the most famous and prolific coin designers in United States Mint history.

The obverse depicts Liberty with a triple headdress of cap, laurel wreath, and a tiny coronet inscribed with the word “Liberty” – symbols of freedom and liberty.

The reverse shows the denomination within a wreath of corn and wheat to symbolize agriculture, maple leaves to represent civic rule, and oak leaves to indicate military power – the three great traditions that built America in the 19^th century when this coin was first issued.

The Barber series of silver coins from the late 1800’s to the early 1900’s was the last “family” of silver coins that featured similar designs; the portrait of Liberty also appeared on Barber Quarters and Half Dollars.

This coin was struck at the U.S. Mint in Philadelphia. Unlike the coins struck at the other branches of the U.S. Mint, it does not bear a mint mark; the mint mark for other branches appears under the center of the wreath on the reverse.

All Barber Dimes were struck in 90% silver, a level of precious metal that has not been seen in regular U.S. coins for over half a century.

Silver coins like this disappeared from circulation generations ago. Millions of these coins have been melted for the silver bullion over the years, leaving just a fraction for today’s collectors.

The total number of Barber Dimes struck at Philadelphia in the 25 years from 1892 to 1916 is equal to about the number of dimes struck today at Philadelphia every four months – and huge quantities of the Barber coins have disappeared over the past century and more.

This hard-to-find silver coin is a sought-after collector’s item and makes a great gift.

• The coin is presented in a protective holder and is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity.