Barber Quarter Dollar, 90% Silver, United States Mint
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint (Philadelphia, Denver, New Orleans, or San Francisco). Chief Engraver Charles E. Barber.
Pattern: Barber Head / Liberty Head Quarter Dollar
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint (Philadelphia, Denver, New Orleans, or San Francisco). Chief Engraver Charles E. Barber.
Material
Coin Silver; 90% Silver, 10% Copper. Contains approximately 0.1808 troy ounces of pure silver.
Dimensions
Diameter: 24.3 mm. Original Weight: 6.25 grams. Current weight likely lower due to significant surface wear.
Description
A heavily circulated examples of a U.S. Barber Quarter. This silver coin represents a transition in American coinage toward more classical, Greco-Roman aesthetics. The surface shows deep golden-brown toning and significant 'flatness' on the high points of Liberty’s hair and cap, indicating long-term use in general commerce.
Key Features
Distinctive laurel wreath and Phrygian cap; 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' legend placement; 90% silver content; characteristic Barber profile.
Material & Composition
Coin Silver; 90% Silver, 10% Copper. Contains approximately 0.1808 troy ounces of pure silver.
Finish & Decoration
Circulated strike with relief engraving. Obverse features a Classical-style head of Liberty facing right, wearing a Phrygian cap and laurel wreath. Reverse (not shown) traditionally features a heraldic eagle.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' on the obverse. Mint marks (if present) are on the reverse below the eagle's tail. Date is located at the bottom of the obverse.
Construction Details
Struck using high-pressure steam or electric powered coining presses with steel dies and a reeded edge collar.
Functional Features
Reeded edge to prevent 'clipping' or shaving of precious metal; legal tender denomination for commerce.
Handle & Grip Details
None; handheld numismatic item.
Craftsmanship Details
Original dies were hand-engraved and reduced via pantograph; mass-produced at high quality for government circulation standards.
Authentication Indicators
Authentic die-struck wear patterns; correct typography for the era; natural sulfide toning; distinct Barber profile remains identifiable despite heavy wear.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America. Produced at various federal mint locations.
Era & Period
Late Victorian / Gilded Age into early 20th Century (1892-1916).
Age Estimate
Circa 1892-1916. The visible 'Liberty' head design confirms the Barber series period.
Cultural Significance
Represented the standard medium of exchange during the turn of the century; symbol of American industrial growth and silver-backed monetary policy.
Condition Notes
Grade: About Good (AG-3) to Good (G-4). Significant wear. The rims are starting to merge with the lettering. Heavy tarnish/toning and surface scratches present. Condition: Fair.
Value Estimate
$6.00 - $10.00. Value is primarily derived from silver melt weight ('junk silver' value) plus a small numismatic premium due to its age.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish. Cleaning numismatic items destroys their collector value. Store in a PVC-free plastic flip or archival-safe coin folder.
Similar Pieces
Standing Liberty Quarter (replaced this in 1916); Washington Quarter (modern silver version); Barber Dime and Barber Half Dollar (same design motif).
Interesting Facts
The design was extremely unpopular with the public when first released, criticized for being too 'monolithic.' It replaced the long-running Seated Liberty design.